Summary

The Rules of Judicial Ethics are recitation of the rules for behavior by judges which they expect of themselves and each of other. Lawyers, litigants, and all citizens can anticipate that judges will comport themselves in accordance with universal standards and concepts of good behavior and proper conduct of court proceedings.

Rules of Judicial Ethics are compilation of what is and what is not appropriate behaviour by trial and appellate judges. A violation of the rules can be cause for bringing of disciplinary proceedings against a judge and charges can reflect that he or she did not act in conformity with a particular rule. With written rules of ethics in existence, no judge can complain that he or she was not on notice of how to properly conduct themselves when faced with an ethical question. A judge should find direction from the rules when confronted with questions as to whether they should hear case which involves a personal investment , a relative or friend or a former client. A judge should abstain from actions which will bring disrespect upon the court system.