Opinion 61
(This Opinion discusses a prior version of the Canons of Judicial Conduct; the most comparable current rules is 2-3.7 Participation in Educational, Religious, Charitable, Fraternal, or Civic Organizations and Activities, Subdivision (A).)
Issue:
May a Circuit Judge make public statements in behalf of a proposed sales tax? The sales tax in question would provide needed funds to improve the county court’s juvenile and work release programs and also to upgrade the condition of the county jail?
Discussion:
Supreme Court Rule 2, Canon 4C states that a judge:
It is the Commission’s opinion that a judge should not comment publicly in favor of the proposed sales tax for the reason that such a comment would be personally participating in public fund raising activities in violation of Canon 4C.
(Dated: March 12, 1981)
COMMISSION ON RETIREMENT, REMOVAL AND DISCIPLINE
OPINION 61
Issue:
May a Circuit Judge make public statements in behalf of a proposed sales tax? The sales tax in question would provide needed funds to improve the county court’s juvenile and work release programs and also to upgrade the condition of the county jail?
Discussion:
Supreme Court Rule 2, Canon 4C states that a judge:
may serve as a member, officer, or director of an organization or governmental agency devoted to the improvement of the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice. He may assist such an organization in raising funds and may participate in their management and investment, but should not personally participate in public fund raising activities. He may make recommendations to public and private fund-granting agencies on projects and programs concerning the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice.
It is the Commission’s opinion that a judge should not comment publicly in favor of the proposed sales tax for the reason that such a comment would be personally participating in public fund raising activities in violation of Canon 4C.
(Dated: March 12, 1981)