What can be a consequence of unethical behavior in contracting?

Choosing legal repercussions and damage to agency reputation as the consequence of unethical behavior in contracting accurately reflects the serious implications that arise from such actions. Unethical behavior can lead to investigations, lawsuits, or sanctions, which might affect not only the individuals involved but also the entire agency. When an agency's integrity is questioned due to unethical contracting practices, public trust is eroded, making it more difficult to operate effectively in the future.

Moreover, the repercussions such as loss of credibility can lead to increased scrutiny from oversight bodies, potentially resulting in more stringent regulations and oversight mechanisms. The reputation of an agency is crucial for maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including contractors and the public, and once damaged, it can take significant time and effort to rebuild. Thus, the correlation between unethical behavior and negative outcomes emphasizes why maintaining ethical standards is essential for the health and sustainability of contracting practices.