Regulatory Compliance & Legal Framework Flashcards

Which of the following constitutes an improper dual relationship under ICF ethics?

Answer: Simultaneously serving as a client's executive coach and their direct performance evaluator

Serving as both coach and performance evaluator creates a conflict of interest that compromises the coach's objectivity and the client's psychological safety.

A coach's liability insurance policy typically covers which of the following?

Answer: Claims that the coach's professional services caused financial or emotional harm

Professional liability insurance (errors and omissions) protects coaches against claims that their services caused harm, covering legal defense costs and settlements.

When should a coaching agreement be updated or renegotiated?

Answer: Whenever significant changes occur in the scope, goals, or terms of the coaching relationship

Agreements should be revisited when material changes occur, such as shifts in focus, fees, or duration, to ensure both parties remain aligned and protected.

Under US contract law, which element is NOT required for a valid coaching contract?

Answer: Written notarization

While written contracts are advisable, notarization is generally not a legal requirement for coaching service contracts to be valid and enforceable.

A coach shares a client's business strategy details with a mutual acquaintance, believing it is harmless. This action violates:

Answer: ICF's confidentiality standards and potentially breach of contract and privacy laws

Disclosing client information without consent violates ICF's confidentiality ethics and may constitute breach of contract and privacy law violations.

What is the primary purpose of a 'limitation of liability' clause in a coaching contract?

Answer: To cap the financial damages a coach may owe if found liable for harm

A limitation of liability clause sets a maximum amount of damages the coach can be held responsible for, typically capped at fees paid, reducing the coach's financial risk.

ICF's policy on coach advertising and marketing requires that coaches:

Answer: Accurately represent their qualifications, credentials, and services without misleading claims

ICF ethics require honest representation of credentials and services, prohibiting exaggerated claims or misrepresentation that could mislead prospective clients.