As an organizational ombuds office we maintain membership in the International Ombudsman Association and adhere to the following Code of Ethics.

The principles of the Ombuds Code of Ethics and those of the Office of the University Ombuds at UC are:

Confidentiality

The ombudsman holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence and does not disclose confidential communications unless given permission to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is where there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.

Informality

The ombudsman, as an informal resource, does not participate in any formal adjudicative or administrative procedure related to concerns brought to his/her attention.

Impartiality

The ombudsman, as a designated neutral, remains unaligned and impartial. The ombudsman does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest.

Independent

The ombudsman is independent in structure, function and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization.