Dear Model Code,
I’m a member of the board of directors of a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation that supports the local ballet company. Can I encourage people to buy tickets to this month’s production of The Nutcracker? To what extent am I allowed to aid in the ballet’s promotion?
Sincerely,
Hon. Sugar Plum Sponsor
Dear Judge Sugar Plum,
It may be the season of giving, but for judges that means treading cautiously.
Rule 3.1 of the Model Code allows for judges to participate in charitable organizations, including serving as a board member. However, your right to seek contributions—or sell ballet tickets—is limited.
Under Section A, point 2, of Rule 3.7, judges are allowed to solicit contributions for a charitable entity but only from members of the judge’s family or from judges the judge does not supervise or hold appellate authority over.
By the way, some states may also interpret Rule 1.3, which says a judge shall not advance the personal or economic interests of the judge or others, to the point of usurping Rule 3.1. So when it comes to supporting charitable entities, you may want to check with your state’s bar association or a superior judge.
Festively yours,
The Model Code of Judicial Conduct
New tribal judges, jump-start your career by taking Essential Skills for Tribal Court Judges. The course covers the fundamentals necessary to preside over criminal and civil matters. It’s an essential course for new tribal judges or those who want a refresher.
Offered March 5-8, 2018, in Tucson, Arizona
Click here for more information or to register
This month’s one-question survey* of NJC alumni asked, “How is 2024 shaping up for you and your court?â...
RENO, NV (PNS) – As they eye their inaugural football season this fall, the Gaveliers have question marks...
RENO, Nev. (March 8, 2024) — In what may reflect a devastating blow to the morale of the judiciary, 9 out...
In what may reflect a devastating blow to the morale of the judiciary, 9 out of 10 judges believe the publi...
RENO, Nev. (Jan. 26, 2024) — The nation’s oldest, largest and most widely attended school for judges â€...
Download a PDF of our 2024 course list