ethics – n. rules of behavior based on ideas about what is morally good and bad.
hearing – n. a meeting or session at which evidence and arguments about a crime, complaint, etc., are presented to a person or group who will have to decide on what action should be taken.
impress – v. to cause someone to feel admiration or interest.
run through the ringer – v. To subject to a severe trial or ordeal
sully – v. to damage or ruin the good quality of something.