California Law and Ethics Practice Exam 2025 – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Success!

The NASW Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of social workers adhering to both state and federal laws, but it specifically highlights that compliance may vary depending on the legal situation at hand. This means that while social workers are generally expected to follow the laws applicable to their practice, there may be instances where the law may conflict with ethical standards or where specific legal guidance is necessary. The code acknowledges that certain legal situations may require a nuanced approach, allowing for discretion in how compliance is implemented.

This understanding is crucial for social workers as it reinforces their responsibility to not only follow the law but also to consider the ethical implications in their practice. It reflects the complexity of working within a legal framework while maintaining high ethical standards, particularly in situations where the law may not fully align with ethical principles.