1. “Never screw over your partner.”
Trust and loyalty are foundational. Whether in the field or the lab, always watch each other’s backs.
2. “Always wear gloves at a crime scene.”
Literal and symbolic—come prepared, protect evidence, and stay safe.
3. “Never believe what you are told. Double-check.”
Healthy skepticism is essential. Confirm everything to find the truth.
4. “The best way to keep a secret? Keep it to yourself. Second best: tell one person—if you must. There is no third best.”
Discretion matters. Some truths must stay hidden for the mission’s integrity.
5. “Don’t waste good.”
See potential in people and opportunities—don’t let them slip away. Tony’s redemption was built on this.
6. “Never say you’re sorry. It’s a sign of weakness.”
Gibbs respects strength and resolution. Apologies aren’t always necessary.
7. “Always be specific when you lie.”
If deception is required, do it carefully. Never fudge details under pressure.
8. “Never take anything for granted.”
Every moment, lead, and clue matters—never assume or overlook.
9. “Never go anywhere without a knife.”
A nod to his Marine roots—always expect and prepare for danger.
10. “Never get personally involved in a case.”
Maintain professionalism. Emotions can cloud judgment—though he sometimes struggled with this rule.
11. “When the job is done, walk away.”
Don’t dwell on cases. Once it’s closed, move forward.
12. “Never date a co-worker.”
Office relationships complicate missions and morale; keep it professional.
Why Gibbs’ Rules Still Matter
These rules were inspired by Gibbs’ late wife Shannon and his Marine Corps background—a personal code of conduct that defines his leadership and moral compassfuntrivia.com+15people.com+15screenrant.com+15reddit.com+1reddit.com+1funtrivia.comlooper.com.
They’ve been woven into NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and even acknowledged during Gibbs’ departure. The rules shaped team dynamics, influenced pivotal plot twists, and guided character growth long after Harmon left the show people.com.
Beyond Rule 12
After #12, Gibbs’ rules diversify:
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Rule 14: “Bend the line, don’t break it.”
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Rule 16: “If someone thinks they have the upper hand, break it.”
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Rule 18: “It’s better to seek forgiveness than ask permission.”
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Rule 20: “Always look under.”
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Rule 27: “Two ways to follow someone…”
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Rule 28: “When you need help, ask.”
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Rule 35: “Always watch the watchers.”
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Rule 36: “If it feels like you’re being played, you probably are.”
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Rule 38: “Your case, you’re lead.”
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Rule 39: “There is no such thing as coincidence.”
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Rule 40: “If it seems like someone’s out to get you, they are.”
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Rule 42: “Never accept an apology from somebody who just sucker-punched you.”
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Rule 44: “First things first, hide the women and children.”
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Rule 45: “Left a mess? I gotta clean it up.”
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Rule 51: “Sometimes you’re wrong.”
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Rule 62: “Always give people space when they leave an elevator.”
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Rule 69: “Never trust a woman who doesn’t trust her man.”
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Rule 91: “When you decide to walk away, never look back.”reddit.com+5people.com+5looper.com+5aardling.com+14tvinsider.com+14reddit.com+14
The Legacy of Gibbs’ Rules
Gibbs’ rules go beyond police work—they’re life lessons.
They represent discipline, trust, pragmatism, and emotional resilience. Even as the franchise expands—through prequels and spin-offs—these rules remain its moral foundation. Through good and bad, Gibbs’ code continues to guide NCIS agents and inspire viewers alike.
