Code of Conduct

Introduction

The Canadian Institute of Certified Executor Advisors (CICEA) Code of Conduct outlines the principles and expectations governing the conduct of its members.

Understanding and acceptance of this code is a requirement of membership in the CICEA.

CICEA retains the right and responsibility to investigate claims against its members and take appropriate action (as outlined below) while providing fair and due process to its members.

Rules of Conduct

1. Integrity

Certified Executor Advisors:

1.1  Will act in an ethical manner at all times.

1.2  Will not engage in anything illegal or anything detrimental to the best interests of the public or which harms the integrity of the institute and its members and affiliates.

1.3  Will provide all requisite due diligence without omission, misleading or false information.

1.4  Will, at all times, act objectively to the best of their ability, and in the best interests of the client.

2. Confidentiality

Certified Executor Advisors:

2.1. Will strictly protect client’s information at all times.  If there is any doubt as to the confidentiality of information shared, treat it as confidential until such time as the ambiguity is cleared. 

2.2  Will disclose their client’s personal information to third parties only with their client’s consent, or as provided for by law.  In such cases take all reasonable steps to inform clients of the imposed breach.

2.3  Will avoid public discussions or comments about clients that could reasonably be seen as revealing confidential or identifying information.

3. Competency

Certified Executor Advisors:

3.1. Will perform only those services for which they have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience.

3.2  Will refer clients, in all other situations, to competent professionals in the occupations required by the client.  (Use the Find-A-CEA directory to locate CEAs by occupation and geographical region.)

4. Communication

Certified Executor Advisors:

4.1. Will provide timely communication in whatever means is preferred by the client, and based on the level of urgency perceived by them. 

4.2  Will provide clients with the information they need to make informed decisions, including disclosure of any conflicts of interest, and answer their questions to the best of your ability.

4.3  Will cooperate fully with the institute and provide timely and accurate information as requested.

Disciplinary Action

Certified Executor Advisors being reported to be or perceived to be conducting themselves in a dishonourable or questionable manner, may be subject to disciplinary action from CICEA.

All informal disciplinary actions are considered personal information as defined in Section 3 of the Privacy Act. As such, disclosure is governed by the Privacy Act and information is generally only provided to the parties involved. Informal disciplinary actions can range from counseling to reprimands.

When informal discipline is insufficient, a formal disciplinary committee will be convened to consider information provided by the complainant and the member, ensuring fair and due process.  Formal disciplinary actions may include reprimand, suspension or expulsion. 

Conclusion

The Code of Conduct is in place to protect the public, the institute and its members and affiliates.  Adherence to the code is in everyone’s best interest to provide the very best level of care for clients and ensure strong reputations and healthy business practices.