Identifying and Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Potential Conflict of Interest:

·        When possible danger is inherent in the situation.

·        Example: a volunteer or board member is related to the judge.

Actual Conflict of Interest:

·        When opposing loyalties must be confronted.

·        Example: a volunteer becomes the friend of the assigned child.

Self-interested Decision:

·        When a course of action is chosen which represents personal advantage,

·        Example: a volunteer recommends termination so s/he can adopt the child; a board member intervenes with the CASA to influence on behalf of a party to the case who is a personal friend or relative.

GUIDELINES FOR BOARD MEMBERS TO AVOID CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

·        Serve the organization and not any special individual, interest group or constituency.

·        Avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.

·        Disclose any possible conflicts to the board in a timely manner.

·        Maintain independence and objectivity. (Avoid prejudiced judgments on the basis of information received from individuals.)

·        Avoid asking special favors of staff.

·        Urge those with grievances to follow established policies and procedures through their supervisor.

·        Know the organization's mission, purpose, goals, policies, program, services, strengths, and needs.

GUIDELINES FOR CASA STAFF TO AVOID CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

·        Know your program's mission, purpose, goals, policies, services, strengths, and needs.

·        Know your role as a CASA: to serve the best interest of the child.

·        Know your responsibilities as a CASA: investigate; advocate; facilitate; monitor; report.

·        Maintain independence and objectivity.

·        Avoid even the appearance of conflict of interest.

·        Allow others their role and their responsibilities.

·        Know the environment within which you work.

·        Disclose any potential conflicts of interest to your supervisor.

PREVENT AND RESPOND TO CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
KEEP IT
F R E S H
in their minds