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Ethics Pamphlet Designed for New Judges
New federal judges now have a specially designed pamphlet introducing them to
judicial ethics. The pamphlet is entitled Ethics Essentials: A Primer for
New Judges on Conflicts, Outside Activities, and Other Potential Pitfalls.
The pamphlet summarizes essential standards of conduct, answers common
questions, and provides examples of situations new judges are likely to
encounter.
One key subject addressed is judicial disqualification. To assist judges in
identifying potential conflicts of interest, the pamphlet includes checklists
for financial and other interests. Also addressed is whether to accept an
invitation to attend a private educational seminar. The pamphlet describes the
factors (set out in Advisory Opinion No. 67) judges should consider before
accepting such an invitation.
The Codes of Conduct Committee published the pamphlet in May 2006 for
distribution to judicial nominees and new appointees.
“New judges are inevitably the subject of public attention,” said Judge
Gordon Quist (W.D. Mich.), chair of the committee. “The pamphlet is part of an
effort to provide ethics education to judges ‘early and often.’ Judges who have
been on the bench for a while may also find it a useful refresher.”
You can find the pamphlet at: www.uscourts.gov/library/ethicsessentials.pdf.