What distinguishes legal violations from ethical violations?

The distinction between legal violations and ethical violations is best captured by the fact that legal violations are dealt with in court. Legal violations pertain to actions that contravene established laws and regulations, which can lead to legal consequences, including criminal charges or civil lawsuits. In contrast, ethical violations usually involve breaches of moral principles or professional standards that are not necessarily codified into law. Therefore, while ethical violations can result in disciplinary actions by professional organizations or licensing bodies, they are typically not addressed through the judicial system.

This answer highlights the unique framework governing legal violations, where the legal system is the primary vehicle for resolution, unlike ethical issues that may be managed within professional contexts.