Which of the following could be a consequence of violating professional ethics?

The correct response identifies a significant potential outcome of breaching professional ethics: the likelihood of legal action or disciplinary measures. When individuals or organizations fail to adhere to established ethical standards, they often face serious repercussions. These can include formal complaints, legal challenges from affected parties, or disciplinary actions from professional bodies or employers, which may range from reprimands to termination of employment.

In the professional world, ethical guidelines are designed to maintain integrity, accountability, and trust. When these principles are compromised, the consequences can be severe, not just for the individual who violated them but also for the wider organization. This reinforces the importance of ethical conduct in maintaining professional standards and safeguarding the interests of clients, colleagues, and the community.

The other options generally represent positive outcomes associated with ethical behavior rather than consequences of ethical violations. Therefore, they illustrate what an individual can expect from adherence to professional ethics, contrasting sharply with the repercussions outlined in the correct choice.