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|  As a City employee, you are bound by the ethical standards of Chapter 68 of the City Charter. The COIB's Legal Advice Unit was established to answer any questions you might have regarding these standards. One phone call is often all that it takes to get an opinion. When you call, simply say: "I might have a conflict of interest, could I speak with an attorney?" Immediately (and anonymously, if you like) you will be put in touch with a staff attorney. If your situation is typical, your situation may be resolved there and then, but sometimes you may be required to provide information in writing. You may also request a written opinion for your files, even when one is not required. Some situations are not typical and require deliberation by the Board. If your case is not typical, you will be asked to "put it in writing" and you will, in turn, receive a written response. If you are asked to put it in writing, you should tell the Board: who you are; where you work; your City title, your responsibilities, and then describe in detail the situation about which you have a question. Don't forget to include a telephone number and a mailing address (home or office - your choice). The type of written reply you recieve will depend on the type and novelty of the question you pose. A Staff Letter responds to your written request about the legality or propriety of an activity for which there is precedent. A formal Advisory Opinion expresses the view of the Board on new questions or novel issues and is intended to provide sound and helpful advice regarding unprecedented situations. A letter from the Board will tell you about the legality or illegality of your proposed activity. The Board may offer you "further advice," warning you of other, possibly relevant rules and regulations. Call 212-442-1400 during business hours and ask to speak to the Attorney of the Day.
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| Below you will find a series of links to materials that may be of use in understanding Chapter 68. Our "Leaflets" page contains general discussions of various topics and a plain language version of the Law. Our "Law" and "Guides for Lawyers" pages cpmtain the actual law and more in-depth discussions. The "Guides for Lawyers" page also contains a link to all of the Board's Advisory Opinions and Enforcement Dispositions, indexed and searchable through citylaw.org.  Leaflets--An Extensive Layman's Guide to Chapter 68The Law--Chapter 68 of the City Charter, The Rules of Board, and Financial Disclosure LawGuides for LawyersLegislative History of Chapter 68 | |
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