Code of Ethics for Bloodstain Pattern Examiners

This code is intended as a guide to ethical conduct of Bloodstain Pattern Examiners. It is not to be construed that these principles are immutable laws, nor that they are all inclusive. Instead, they represent general standards which each examiner should strive to meet. It is to be realized that each individual case may vary, just as does the evidence with which each examiner is concerned, and no set of guides or rules will fit every occasion. At the same time the fundamentals set forth in this code are to be regarded as indicating, to a considerable extent, the conduct requirements expected of members of the profession and this Association.

A failure to meet or maintain these standards will justifiably cast doubt on an individual's fitness for this type of work. Infractions of these principles may be regarded as inconsistent with certification as a Bloodstain Pattern Examiner.

It is the duty of practicing Bloodstain Pattern Examiners to serve the interests of justice to the best of their ability at all times. In fulfilling this duty, they will use all of the scientific and investigative techniques at their command to construct all of the relative details under investigation. Having documented the factual physical evidence, the Examiner must identify and evaluate the stains and patterns located for ultimate demonstrative presentation in a court of law.

In this regard, they will be guided by training, experience and knowledge which will allow them to identify relevant stains and patterns of blood for ultimate reconstructive purposes. These documentary and identifying facts will be reported with all accuracy and skill of which the Examiner is capable, to the end that all persons fully understand and be able to place the findings in their proper relationship to the case or scene at issue.

In carrying out these functions, the examiner will be guided by those practices and procedures which are generally recognized within the profession to be consistent with a high level of professional ethics. The motives, methods and actions of the Examiner shall at all times be above reproach, in good taste, and consistent with proper moral conduct.

A Bloodstain Pattern Examiner, whose professional or personal conduct becomes adverse to the best interests and purposes of the profession of Bloodstain Pattern Identification, shall be liable to censure, suspension of withdrawal of certification as a Bloodstain Pattern Examiner. A Bloodstain Pattern Examiner who is under investigation may be subject to temporary suspension not to exceed ninety (90) days (certification), pending the outcome and/or recommendations made as a result of the investigation.

A Bloodstain Pattern Examiner who makes other than factual statements (false or misleading statements) is subject to suspension and revocation of his/her certification. It should be noted that our membership should possess as level of skill and knowledge and that not just anyone is or will be qualified to become a Bloodstain Pattern Examiner. See Section XIII, B, Handling Complaints and Allegations.

For further information, contact:

Grant D. Graham Sr.
4409 Battle Forest Road
Hope Mills, NC 28348