Understanding the Basics of Public Service Ethics Laws

Ethics laws are designed to preserve the public’s trust in its public institutions and those who serve in them by setting a framework to guide conduct and behavior. This guide discusses several types of ethics laws and principles and their important role in public service.

As a convenience, individual chapters from Understanding the Basics of Public Services Ethics Laws are also available:

Personal Financial Gains Laws Perk Issues, Including Compensation, Use of Public Resources and Gift Laws Transparency Laws Fair Process Laws and Merit-Based Decision-Making

The Institute is very grateful to the law firms whose commitment to the Institute’s work and financial support made this free resource possible.

RESOURCE: Download Complete Version of Understanding the Basics of Public Service Ethics Laws

Understanding Personal Financial Gain Laws

This piece explains California ethics laws relating to personal financial gain and public office.

Understanding Perk Issues, Including Compensation, Use of Public Resources and Gifts

This piece explains California ethics laws relating to public officials and personal advantages and perks.

Understanding Transparency Laws

This piece explains California ethics laws relating to public agency transparency.

Understanding Fair Process Laws and Merit-Based Decision-Making

This piece explains California ethics laws relating to fair processes laws and public office.

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

ILG would like to thank our partners for their sponsorship of the 2013 edition of The Basics of Public Service Ethics Laws. Meet the ILG’s partners…

You Can Support the Institute’s Work

And Promote Good Government at the Local Level