Wednesday, May 8, 2013

The New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct has issued a report on the ethical issues that relate to the use of judicial license plates.

The Commission intends to "generate a serious discussion" of the issue, reaching the conclusions that the use of such plates "does not per se violate any ethics rule or create an appearence of impropriety."

However, asserting judicial status "to avoid the consequences of a lawful traffic stop" can result in sanctions and a judge should so advise family and friends who operate the vehicle. If a judge uses a dashboard placard to park illegally, such conduct "may subject the judge to a confidential caution or public discipline."

Commission member Emery dissented and felt that the "milquetoast" report was "ducking" the issues.

The press release of the Commission is linked here. (Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2013/05/the-new-york-state-commission-on-judicial-conduct-has-issued-a-report-on-the-ethical-issues-that-relate-to-the-use-of-judicia.html