The work of the OIG is legal work. Legal work is built on words that are not commonly used. These terms need to be understood. For that reason, Section 12A-2 of the Code defines several terms that are used in the Code. An additional source of terminology for the OIG is found in the “Green Book.” This is a book relied upon across the country as a guide for the best practices of an inspector general office.

These definitions have been gathered by the Association of Inspectors General to help with people gain understanding about ethics. Use this page to gain a general understanding of the terminology used in the world of ethics and inspector general offices, and to strengthen the clarity of a complaint. These terms are not intended to establish or amend governing standards for official proceedings.