At its core, the Professional Standards Committee is responsible for hearing and resolving matters related to membership duties, ethical conduct, and compliance with MLS rules. When a complaint is filed—whether it’s about an alleged Code of Ethics violation or an MLS rules issue—members of this committee step in as panelists for disciplinary hearings. Confidentiality of all matters pertaining to a complaint is paramount.

These panelists are unpaid volunteers. They give their time as a true act of public service. Their job isn’t to take sides—it’s to ensure that everyone involved gets a fair, unbiased, and respectful hearing.

The Professional Standards Committee plays a crucial role in maintaining trust—within our membership and with the public. Their work helps ensure that our association remains a place where professionalism is expected, ethics are honored, and everyone has a voice.

How a Hearing Works

When a case comes in, a hearing panel is selected from committee members who haven’t been challenged by either party. Before they ever enter the hearing room, panelists must certify that they have no conflicts that would prevent them from serving impartially.

During the hearing itself, the panel makes sure the process follows the procedures laid out in the official C.A.R. Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual. Both sides have the opportunity to present evidence, share testimony, and make their case. The panel listens closely and carefully because their role is to determine what actually happened based solely on the evidence presented.