Kallos Law helps organizations develop government ethics rules that identify conflicts, define obligations and support public accountability.
Rules that people can understand and institutions can enforce
An ethics policy should explain who is covered, what conduct is restricted, what must be disclosed and who makes a decision when a question arises. We work with advocacy organizations, nonprofits and other clients on reforms concerning conflicts of interest, outside income, gifts, lobbying and transitions between public and private employment.
The firm can examine how proposed restrictions interact with existing law and how agencies or boards would administer them. Clear definitions, usable guidance and a workable review process help turn a public commitment into an operating rule.
Experience with government reform
As chair of the City Council’s Governmental Operations Committee, Ben Kallos worked on reforms concerning Council members’ outside income and committee stipends. He also advocated for charter changes addressing post-government lobbying and other accountability measures.
Our firm brings that legislative and oversight background to policy research and drafting. The firm’s work is grounded in the text of the governing law and the responsibilities of the institution involved.
Policy advice and implementation
Engagements can include comparative research, proposed legislation, amendments, testimony, training materials and review of disclosure or recusal procedures. We help clients identify where an ethics reform needs statutory authority and where an organization can act through its own policies.
A question about an individual’s duties may require separate analysis of the applicable ethics body, employment history and contemplated conduct. A policy engagement does not substitute for an advisory opinion or clearance from the authority empowered to provide one.