Which is a question to consider during an ethics check?

Considering whether something is legal is a fundamental aspect of any ethics check. Legal standards form the baseline for ethical behavior; actions that are illegal are typically considered unethical. By verifying the legality of a decision or action, organizations not only adhere to the law but also demonstrate integrity and accountability in their practices. This question helps ensure that policies and decisions align with legal frameworks, which is crucial for maintaining trust with stakeholders and the public.

In contrast, while costs, opinions of others, and speed of execution may be important considerations in decision-making, they do not directly assess the ethical implications of a situation. Focusing solely on these factors could lead to situations where legal or ethical boundaries are crossed. Thus, asking if something is legal stands as a primary concern in ensuring that actions taken within an organization are both lawful and ethically sound.