The ethical code for behavior analysts mandates that practitioners only provide services within their areas of competence When presented with a case outside their primary or established area of expertise eg transitioning from extensive experience with autism to a client with a severe intellectual disability without prior experience the first and most critical ethical step if choosing to accept the case is to obtain appropriate training and supervision from a professional competent in that specific area This ensures that the BCBA develops the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively and ethically serve the new client population While conducting assessments A and C are crucial steps in the intervention process they cannot ethically precede the BCBA ensuring their own competence to work with the client Declining the case D is an acceptable option if competence cannot be attained but it is not the first required step if the BCBA intends to take the case and acquire the necessary competency