Confidentiality is of utmost importance. Those involved in investigations, mediations, adjudications, appeals, and record keeping shall respect the parties’ confidentiality as far as possible without impeding the pursuit of the truth of the allegations or violating state reporting laws or evidentiary procedures. Parties and witnesses contacted are expected to respect the need for confidentiality in order to protect privacy and fair process for everyone involved. To obtain guidance and support, the parties to the complaint may discuss the complaint with their families and helping professionals; however, all must respect the need for privacy.