The leadership of a credit union facing pressure from state or federal regulators may have good reason to be concerned.

Regulatory bodies are subject to pressures from legislators and executive officers, as well as a host of other constituents, and credit unions should adopt a systematic approach to addressing concerns from regulators.

First, credit unions should take the extra step of involving the regulators on issues of concern. The old adage, "ask forgiveness, not permission" simply does not work, particularly if the credit union is already under scrutiny. While a credit union need not strictly ask permission, one feeling pressure would be wise to put the regulators on notice of major issues or events to allow the regulators the opportunity to object or provide input.