Ethics, Safety & Legal Considerations Flashcards

An investigator discovers what appears to be stolen property during a paranormal investigation. What is the legal obligation?

Answer: Do not touch the items and report the discovery to law enforcement immediately

Investigators who discover suspected stolen or illegal property are legally obligated to report it to law enforcement without disturbing the evidence.

What does 'duty of care' require from a paranormal investigation team leader?

Answer: Taking reasonable steps to protect team members from foreseeable harm

Duty of care is a legal and ethical obligation to take reasonable precautions to protect others from foreseeable risks of harm.

Which action best demonstrates respect for a location's cultural or religious significance during an investigation?

Answer: Researching the cultural or religious history and adjusting investigation methods accordingly with stakeholder input

Culturally competent investigators research location significance and consult relevant stakeholders to ensure their methods are respectful and appropriate.

How should a paranormal investigation team handle evidence from a case that is under active police investigation?

Answer: Withhold or surrender evidence to law enforcement as directed by legal authorities

Evidence related to an active criminal investigation must be handled according to law enforcement direction to avoid obstruction of justice charges.

A client asks investigators to perform a spiritual cleansing ritual as part of their services. What is the ethical consideration?

Answer: Clearly communicate that this service is outside investigative scope and refer the client to appropriate religious or spiritual advisors

Paranormal investigators should not present themselves as qualified spiritual or religious practitioners and should refer clients to appropriate advisors for such services.

What is the significance of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for paranormal investigators?

Answer: It may apply if a client shares medical or psychological history, requiring protection of that health information

When clients disclose medical or mental health information, investigators must handle that information with appropriate confidentiality, consistent with HIPAA principles.

An investigation team is working in a building with floors of questionable structural integrity. What is the appropriate safety action?

Answer: Halt the investigation until a structural safety assessment is completed

Structurally compromised floors present a life-threatening risk that requires professional assessment before investigation can safely continue.