WPC O ^a-2*#`F\Dt=3zZ,okQ8 e`k#~tW_?N. TheHonorableAlanM._Wilner_ d TheHonorableDaleR._Cathell_ : TheHonorableGlennT._Harrell_,Jr.  TheHonorableLynneA._Battaglia_  TheHonorableClaytonGreene,Jr., l    `     h Judges B   TheCourtofAppealsofMaryland h   RobertC.MurphyCourtsof >   AppealBuilding    Annapolis,Maryland21401  YourHonors:XO#XXX !l" #XXXXO##  TheJudicialEthicsCommitteeandtheRulesCommittee " $ jointlysubmitthisReportoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeand #% OneHundredFiftyThirdReportoftheRulesCommittee.The f$& CommitteesrecommendthattheCourtadopttheproposedrules <% ' changestransmittedwiththisReport.Transmittedherewithare &b!( proposednewRule16812.1,intowhichprovisionsconcerningthe &8") JudicialEthicsCommitteehavebeentransferredfromCanon7of '#* thecurrentMarylandCodeofJudicialConductandrevised; (#+ proposedrevisedRules16813and16814;andconformingand j)$, relatedamendmentstoRule16816andRules3.5and8.2ofthe @*%- Maryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConduct.Conforming +f&. amendmentstoRule16815andtocrossreferencesthatfollow +<'/ Rules4327,5605,and17105alsoareproposed. ,(0   n.)2   InrevisingRule16813(MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct),  theCommitteesreviewedthecurrentMarylandCodeoriginally  adoptedin1987andamendedfromtimetotime( MarylandCode \ (1987)),theModelCodeofJudicialConductadoptedbythe 2 AmericanBarAssociationin2000( ABACode(2000)),with X amendmentsinAugust2003( ABACode(2000,amended2003)),and . pertinentMarylandJudicialEthicsOpinions.Forthemostpart,   theCommitteesachievedconsensusastotherecommended   provisionsoftheCode.Whereconsensuscouldnotbereached, `  theseparaterecommendationsofthetwoCommitteesarepresented 6   intheformofalternativesfortheCourtsconsideration.  \    Asummaryofthesignificantaspectsoftheproposalsisset   forthbelow.   @P P Rule16812.1.JudicialEthicsCommittee `    Organizationally,theCommitteesrecommendthatthe  provisionsrelatingtotheJudicialEthicsCommitteeappearina  ruleseparatefromtheCodeofJudicialConduct.This n recommendationismadebecausetheprovisionsarenotproperlya D  CanonasdelineatedinthePreambletotheproposedrevised j CodeandbecausethedutiesoftheJudicialEthicsCommittee @ extendbeyondtheCodeofJudicialConduct.    TheCommitteesproposethemodificationandadditionof r numerousprovisionsrelatingtotheorganizationandoperationof H theJudicialEthicsCommittee,basedonamodelforlegislative n draftingofstatutesforboards,commissions,etc.Thus,for D example,provisionsastoavicechair,meetingandquorum  provisions,andaprovisionforstaffareproposed.    Thequorumprovisionisbasedonthemembership then L ! serving,ratherthantheauthorizedmembership,inaccordance "!r" withcurrentpractice. !H#   ThetermofmembersoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeis #% proposedtobeextendedfrom1to3years.TheCommittees z$& believethatstaggered3yeartermsprovidesomecontinuityin P% ' decisionsoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeand,foreaseof &&v!( implementation,recommendthatthenumberofmembersbesetat9, &L") ratherthanthecurrentrangeof7to9members.TheCommittees '"#* areawareofthetimedemandsofmembershipandthedirectimpact (#+ oftheJudicialEthicsCommitteesactionsonjudges. ~)$, Accordingly,theCommitteeshaveconcludedthattheCourtmay T*%- wishtoconsidersomeformoftermlimit.Atermlimitationis *+z&. added,inaccordancewiththeABACode(2000)provisions.A ,P'/ slightlydifferentformoflimitisstatedfortheCommissionon ,&(0 JudicialDisabilitiesinMarylandConstitution,ArticleIV,4A -(1 (d). 1  .)2 _ԇ  TheCommitteeshavenotincludedinthelistofdutiesof  theJudicialEthicsCommitteethedutytoreviewanagreement  betweenajudgedesignateandhisorherlawfirmforpayments \ relatingtotheliquidatedvalueofthejudgedesignates 2 interestinthepractice.Therequirementthattheagreementbe X submittedtotheJudicialEthicsCommitteecurrentlyissetforth . inCanon4I(b)(2)(4)ofMarylandCode(1987)andisnot   carriedforwardintheproposedrevisedCode.Theagreements   seldomaresubmittedsufficientlyinadvanceofqualificationto `  allowmeaningfulreview,andthenatureofreviewisministerial, 6   pertainingonlytocompliancewithapresumptive5yearperiod  \  forpayout.Thus,theJudicialEthicsCommitteeisinaposition  2  ofapprovinganagreementcontainingsuchaperiodnotwith   standingotherprovisionsegregiouslyinviolationofother   provisionsoftheCodeofJudicialConduct.Theprovisionsof d  Code,CourtsArticle,1203,whichallowagreements,andmandate :  recusal,arenotaffected. `    Theprovisionsforrequestsforopinionshavebeennarrowed   toavoid,withoneexception,thesituationinwhichaperson  otherthanaStateofficial 2 intheJudicialBranchrequests h commentontheofficialsownconduct.Asexplainedinthe > proposedCommitteenote,theJudicialEthicsCommitteebelieves d thatthisnarrowingavoidstheneedtoopineonincompleteor : inaccuratedescriptionsofconduct.Italsomayhelptoclarify  therespectivejurisdictionoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeand  CommissiononJudicialDisabilities.Forthesamepurpose,the l JudicialEthicsCommitteecontemplatesaskingrequesterstouse B boilerplatelanguagedisavowingknowledgeofpendingorimpending h disciplinaryactionorlawsuitagainsttherequester.Although > theJudicialEthicsCommitteedoesnotseetheneedforinclusion  ofsuchlanguageintheCode,fortheCourtsinformation,a  draftformissetforthinafootnotetothisReport. 3  p    Theexceptiontothegeneralrulethatarequestmustbeas !l" totheStateofficialsownconductisaprovisionthatallows !B# theChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppealstorequestanopinionas "$ totheproperinterpretationofanethicsprovision,generally. #% AsnotedintheproposedCommitteenote,theCommitteesknowof t$& instancesinwhichageneralinterpretationofanethical J% ' provisionaidsintheimplementationofadministrativedutiesor  &p!( forewarnsnumerousStateofficialsofsituationsthatmightgive &F") risetoviolationsbutthattheofficialsmightnototherwise '#* realizetobepotentiallyviolative.Hence,theproposed (#+ provisionforrequestsbytheChiefJudgeoftheCourtof x)$, Appeals.TheCommitteesconsideredallowingvariousotherjudges N*%- withadministrativedutiestomakesuchrequestsbuthadconcerns $+t&. aboutthenumberof,andpotentialforoverlapin,requestsand, +J'/ therefore,proposeapracticesimilartothatforrequesting , (0 opinionsfromtheAttorneyGeneral. -(1  |.)2   Provisionsareproposedtospellouttheminimumcontentsof  requests,tofacilitatepromptresponsetoinquiries.Itis  hopedthat,toassisttheJudicialEthicsCommittee,State \ officialswouldincludeintherequest,forexample,citationsto 2 definitiveopinions.Inthisregard,theCommitteesare X recommendinganotherconceptpatternedonpracticeofthe . AttorneyGeneral!theuseoflettersofadvice,whichare   intendedtoprovidethesafeharborofafullJudicialEthics   Committeeopinionbuttobeissuedinashortertimeframe.The `  Committeesfeelthat,astoanumberofissues,theansweris 6   clear,butawrittenresponseisrequiredfromtheJudicial  \  EthicsCommitteeforthesafeharboreffect.Afterdiscussion,  2  theCommitteesaccededtotherequestoftheCommissionon   JudicialDisabilitiesthatlettersofadvicebeissuedbyapanel   ofatleastthreemembersoftheJudicialEthicsCommittee. d    TheCommitteesarerecommendingclarificationthata `  request,aswellastheresponse,isconfidential.Hence,a 6 requirementisaddedforarequestertospecifyanaddressto   whichresponsecanbemade,sothatabusinessaddressneednot  beusedshouldtherequesterwishotherwise.Note,however,the h confidentialitymaybenegatedas requiredbylaw,aswellas > atthedirectionoftheCourtofAppeals.TheCommittees d declinedtoendorsearecommendationoftheCommissionon : JudicialDisabilitiesforinformationconcerningtheidentityof  requesters,perceivingachillingeffectonrequests.    ProvisionismadefortheJudicialEthicsCommitteeto B decidethatanopinionshouldbeunpublishedorpublished.This h additionreflectscurrentpractice.Astopublishedopinions, > theChairoftheJudicialEthicsCommittee,ratherthanthe  SecretaryoftheJudicialConference,wouldcontroleditingin  accordancewiththeconfidentialityrequirementsoftheRule. p  Recently,opinionshavebeenwrittenwithouttheidentifying F ! information,toobviatetheneedforredaction. !l" @Rule16813.MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct #%  Preamble  P% '   ThemostsignificantchangeproposedbytheABACode(2000),  'Z") andendorsedbytheJudicialEthicsandRulesCommittees,isthe '0#* substitutionof shallfor shouldinnumerousprovisionsof ($+ theCodeofJudicialConduct,makingtheaffectedprovisions )$, mandatory,ratherthanhortatory.Asstatedintheproposed b*%- Preamble,theuseof shallor shallnotinthetextofa 8+&. Canonisintendedtoimposeabindingobligation,theviolation ,^'/ ofwhichcanresultindisciplinaryaction.Thisusageshould ,4(0 affordclearerdirectiontojudgesastotheinfractionsthat - )1 couldresultindisciplinaryproceedings. .)2 Ї  TheABACode(2000)PreamblereferstotheCodeas   provid[ing]guidancetojudgesandcandidatesforjudicial  officeandas provid[ing]guidancetoassistjudgesin \ establishingandmaintaininghighstandardsofjudicialand 2 personalconduct.TheCommitteesomittheformerreference,as X misleadinglyincompleteinlightofthenumerousstatutory . provisionsgoverningcandidates,theproposedamendmentstoRule   8.2oftheMaryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConductset   forthbelow,andtheinapplicabilityofboththeCodeandthe `  RulesofProfessionalConducttounsuccessful,nonlawyer 6   candidatesforanorphanscourt.TheCommitteesomitthe  \  limitationtojudgesfromthelatterreference,astoonarrow  2  giventhepotentialapplicationoftheCodetosuccessful   candidatesforjudicialoffice.Accordingly,disclaimerofany   intentto discourag[e]candidatesfromseekingjudicialoffice d  isadded. :    Inclusionofreferencestopertinentethicsopinions, 6 administrativeordersandotherdocumentsinappropriatepartsof   theCodeofJudicialConductwasdiscussed,buttheCommittees  concludedthatreferencescouldbecomeoutdated.Accordingly, h theCommitteesaddedthelastparagraphoftheproposedPreamble > andanaccompanyingCommitteenote,asareminderofother d pertinentsourcesofethicalguidance. :  Terminology  l   TheproposedTerminologysectiondefinessignificantterms &v appearingintheproposedCodeofJudicialConduct!inthe L instanceof honorarium,inaCommenttoproposedCanon4. " Severalofthedefinedterms, gift, honorarium,and member  ofthejudgeshousehold,incorporateprovisionsofthecurrent ~  MarylandPublicEthicsLawapplicabletojudges,amongother T !  StateofficialsintheJudicialBranch. *!z"   AsubstantivedisagreementbetweentheJudicialEthics "&$ CommitteeandtheRulesCommitteeconcernsthedefinitionof #%  significantfinancialinterest.TheJudicialEthicsCommittee $& proposesconformancetothecurrentMarylandPublicEthicsLaw X% ' provision.TheRulesCommitteeproposesadefinitionthatis .&~!( derivedfromthedefinitionof financialinterestthatisset 'T") forthinCode,StateGovernmentArticle(1984,1995Replacement '*#* Volumeand1998Supplement),15105(n).AtitsOctober5,1999 ($+ openmeetingontheOneHundredFortySixthReportoftheRules )$, Committee,theCourtdeclinedtoadoptproposedamendmentsto \*%- Rules16813and16814thatwouldhaveconformedtheComment 2+&. followingCanon3C(1)ofeachRuletothestatutorydefinition ,X'/ of financialinterest,asamendedin1999.Thedefinitionof ,.(0  significantfinancialinterestrecommendedbytheRules -)1 Committeecarriesforwardthe1999directiveoftheCourt._The .)2 JudicialEthicsCommittee,however,believesthattheMaryland  PublicEthicsLaw,ascurrentlyenactedtocoverallState  officials,prevailsovertheCodeofJudicialConduct,andthe \ JudicialEthicsCommitteestronglyrecommendsconformancetothe 2 currentstatute. X   Adefinitionof impartial, impartiality,and    impartiallyservesasthelinchpinoftheAugust2003   amendmentstotheABACode(2000).Thedefinitionencompasses `  conceptsthatarevitaltothemaintenanceofanindependent 6   judiciaryandprovidesaclearstatementofthecompellingstate  \  interestprotectedbytherestrictionsonajudgesor  2  candidatesspeechsetforthinproposedCanons3B(8)and(9),   4A,and5B(1)(a)and(d).TheCommitteesbelievethattheABA   approachcomportswiththeconstitutionalprinciplesenunciated d  inRepublicanPartyofMinnesotav.White,122S.Ct.2528 :  (2002),andhaveincorporatedthatapproachintotheproposed `  revisedCode. 6   AnonsubstantiveareaofdisagreementbetweentheJudicial  EthicsCommitteeandtheRulesCommitteeconcernsthedefinition h of know,whichtheJudicialEthicsCommitteesuggestsbestated > intheinfinitive!therebycoveringvariationsnotlistedinthe d ABACode(2000)andRulesCommitteesversions.Thisformat : correspondstothatof require.TheRulesCommitteesversion  isbasedupontheABACode(2000)version,whichincludesthe  nounandadverbialformsoftheconceptofknowing,aswellas l theverbform.Alloftheformsofthewordusedintheproposed B Canonsareincludedinthe_definitional_Ԁlistrecommendedbythe h RulesCommittee. > Canon1 p    ProposedCanon1setsforthgeneralrulesastointegrity !l" andindependenceoftheJudiciary.Therearenodisagreements !B# withrespecttoproposedCanon1. "$   ThethirdandfourthsentencesoftheCommentarebasedon t$& ABACode(2000,amended2003). J% ' Canon2 '#*   ProposedCanon2setsforththeprohibitionsagainst x)$, improprietyandtheappearanceofsuch.Thereareno N*%- disagreementswithrespecttoproposedCanon2. $+t&.   ThefourthsentenceoftheproposedCommenttoCanon2Ais , (0 basedontheABACode(2000,amended2003). -(1  |.)2   AdditionstoCanon2Bexpresslymentionpolitical  relationshipsandemploymentoffersandopportunitiesandrequire  thatthejudgenotallowjudicialconducttobeimproperly \ influencedorappeartobeimproperlyinfluencedbysuch 2 relationships,offers,oropportunities. X Canon3     ProposedCanon3relatestoperformanceofjudicialduties. 6     InproposedCanon3,theCommitteeshavedivergedfromthe  2  organizationinABACode(2000)byrecommendingthattheCanon   beginwithageneralprovisionthatsetsforthstandards   generallyapplicabletoalljudicialduties!bothadjudicative d  andadministrative.Thisarrangementavoidstheduplicationand :  inconsistencyinstandardsoccurringinABACode(2000)with `  respecttoadjudicativeversusadministrativefunctions. 6   Considerablediscussionensuedwithrespecttothe  provisionsgoverningpubliccommentbyjudgesinproposedCanon h 3B(8).TheCommitteeswishneithertoforeclose,forexample, > lecturesonthelawwhosecurrencydemandsallusiontopending d casesnortoopenthegatestocommentssuggestingalackof : regardforjudicialpropriety.    TwosignificantcomponentsoftheAugust2003amendmentsto l ABACode(2000)arecontainedinproposedCanon3.First,in B recognitionofthenecessityofmakingallspeechrestrictions h applicabletosittingjudgesaswellastocandidatesfor > judicialoffice,proposedCanon3B(9)mirrorstherestrictions  setforthinproposedCanon5B(1)(d),discussedbelow.An  explanatoryCommentastotheimpartiality,independence,and p  integrityofthejudiciaryfollowsproposedCanon3B(9).In F ! ordertotrack,ascloselyaspossible,theprovisionsinABA !l" Code(2000,amended2003)concerningrestrictionsonjudicial !B# speech,theABAterminologyof pendingand impending "$ proceedingsisusedinproposedCanon3B(9)andtheaccompanying #% Comment,althoughthemoremodernterminologyofaproceeding t$&  beforethejudge...orsuchproceedingisimminentisusedin J% ' thedefinitionof significantfinancialinterestinthe  &p!( TerminologysectionoftheproposedrevisedCode. &F")   ThesecondsignificantcomponentoftheAugust2003 (#+ amendmentsaddedtotheABACode(2000),Canon3providesfor x)$, recusalasaremedyforpreservingjudicialimpartiality. N*%- ProposedCanon3D(1)(e)requiresrecusalifajudge,whilea $+t&. judgeoracandidateforjudicialoffice,hasmadeastatement +J'/ withintheambitofthespeechrestrictionssetforthinthe , (0 Code. -(1  |.)2   WithrespecttoproposedCanon3F(2)and(3),the  CommitteesdecidedtotracktheABACode(2000)provision,while  notingthatproposedCanon3F(2)referstoajudges fitness \ foroffice,butproposedCanon3F(3)!asdotheRulesof 2 ProfessionalConduct!referstoalawyers honesty, X trustworthiness,orfitnessasalawyer.Asidefromquestioning . whether honestyand trustworthinessarenotsubsumedunder    fitnessinthecaseofalawyeraswellasajudge,the   Committeesdebatedwhethertheintroductoryclause, [_i]f_Ԁother `  correctivemeasures...werenotsuccessful,shouldmodifyonly 6   fitness.Thatis,shouldCanon3F(3)readasfollows:  \  8   ` AjudgeshallinformtheAttorneyGrievance   Commissionoffactsknowntothejudgethatraisea   substantialquestionasto:d    8   ` (1)alawyershonestyortrustworthiness;and`    8   ` (2)ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenot 6 appropriateor,ifattempted,werenotsuccessful,a   lawyersfitnessasalawyerinotherrespects.   Canon4 d   ProposedCanon4dealswithextrajudicialactivities.    TheCommitteesdisagreeastothelanguageofaproposed l CommitteenotefollowingproposedCanon4B,withtheonly B substantivedifferencetheinclusionofthephrase notto h lecturetoprobationerswhomightbebroughtbackbeforethe > courtintheJudicialEthicsCommitteesversion.    AnotherportionoftheCodeaboutwhichtheCommitteeswere p  unabletoagreeisproposedCanon4C(2).TheJudicialEthics F ! CommitteebelievesthattheCanonshouldretainthecurrent !l" referencetoacceptanceof advisorypositions.Thisversion !B# is,onitsface,narrowerthantheRulesCommitteesversionbut, "$ theJudicialEthicsCommitteefeels,moreconsistentwithdual #% andincompatibleofficelimitations.TheRulesCommitteeomits t$& theword advisoryinitsversionoftheproposedCanon, J% ' believingthattheCanonshouldbewordedsothat,forexample,  &p!( judgesmayserveontheStateCommissiononCriminalSentencing &F") Policy,thedutiesofwhicharenotmerelyadvisory,andarenot '#* automaticallyprecludedfromservingoncommissionssuchasa (#+ countyscharterrevisioncommission. x)$,   Canon4Ehasbeenrevisedtoallowajudgetoserveasa $+t&. fiduciaryfora memberofthejudgesfamily,therebyobviating +J'/ theneedfortheprovisionofcurrentCanon4Gthatenablesa , (0 judge,in extraordinarycases,toserveasattorneyinfactor  -(1 guardianfora personwithwhomthejudgemaintainsaclose  familialrelationship.    TheintroductoryclauseofproposedCanon4H, [_u]nless_ 2 otherwiseprohibitedbylaw,andthefirstparagraphofthe X proposedCommenthavebeenaddedasawarningaboutthe . restrictionsintheMarylandPublicEthicsLawonacceptanceof   honoraria.   Canon5 6     ProposedCanon5pertainstopoliticalactivityofjudges.  2    AsrequiredafterWhite,supra,the announceclauseis   omittedfromproposedCanon5B.InconformancewithABACode d  (2000,amended2003),theword impartialityisaddedto :  proposedCanon5B(1)(a)andanewlyconstructedclausethat `  collapsescertainportionsofthe commitclauseintothe 6  pledgesandpromisesclause,withadditionalmodifications,is   proposedasCanon5B(1)(d).AsstatedintheReportoftheABA  CommitteesthatdraftedtheAugust2003amendments, h ` `  Thenewwordingoftheprovision : providesaclearenumerationofthe  restrictedspeech( withrespecttocases,  controversiesorissuesthatarelikelyto l comebeforethecourt)andaclearstatement B ofwhatisbeingprotectedbytherestriction h ofthisspeech( inconsistentwiththe > impartialperformanceoftheadjudicative  dutiesoftheoffice).Intheopinionof  theWorkingGroup,andadoptedbyboth p  StandingCommittees,theseamendedprovisions F ! ofCanon5A(3)(d)[Canon5B(1)(d)ofthe !l" proposedrevisedMarylandCode]providethe !B# appropriateconstructiontobalancetheFirst "$ Amendmentinterestinvigorousand #% informativecampaignspeechwiththe t$& compellingstateinterestinperformingthe J% ' dutiesofthejudicialofficeimpartially. 4   &p!( ` `   ProposedCanon5Chasbeenmodifiedtoincludethestatus (#+ oflawyersascandidates. x)$,   ProposedCanon5DisnewandisderivedinpartfromABA $+t&. Code(2000),Canon5Eexceptthefirstsentence.Theprovisions +J'/ ofCanon5thatareapplicabletolawyerswhoarecandidatesfor , (0 judicialofficehavebeenincludedinproposedamendmentstoRule -(1 8.2oftheMaryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConduct. |.)2 _UnderCanon5D,thestatusofthecandidateduringthecampaign!  whetherthecandidateisajudgeoralawyerwhoisnotajudge!  determineswhetherCanon5orRule8.2(b)oftheMarylandRules \ ofProfessionalConductgovernsthebehaviorofthecandidate. 2 Thestatusofthecandidatewhendisciplinaryproceedingsare X initiateddetermineswhetherthejudicialdisciplinaryprocessor . theattorneydisciplinaryprocessisused.   Canon6 6     ProposedCanon6istitled Compliance.  2    TheCommitteesrecommendthattheapplicationofthe   MarylandCodeofJudicialConductbeexpandedtobringrecalled d  judgeswithintheambitofproposedCanon4D(1)(a),whichbars :  extrajudicialbusinessorfinancialdealingsthat reasonably `  wouldbeperceivedtoviolateCanon2B.TheJudicialEthics 6 Committeebelieves,however,thatconsiderationoftheCodeviz   vizrecalledjudgesisneededingreaterdetailthanispossible  withinthescopeofthisproject.Inanyevent,theCommittee t feelsthatrecalledjudgesshouldbeincludedasmembersofany J suchstudygroup.  p @dd Rule16814.MarylandCodeofConductforJudicialAppointees    ThecurrentCodeofConductforJudicialAppointeesis T patternedafterthecurrentMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct. *z Accordingly,theCommitteeshavepreparedproposednewRule16 P 814,MarylandCodeofConductforJudicialAppointees,generally & reflectingtheproposedrevisionstotheCodeofJudicial  Conduct.   Preamble .!~"   TheproposedPreambleisderivedfromthefirstsentenceof "*$ thecurrentRuleandtheaccompanyingCommitteenote.The #% currentdefinitionof judicialappointeeisproposedtobe $& transferredtotheproposed TerminologysectionofthisCode. \% ' Terminology '.#*   TheproposedTerminologysectionrepeatsthosedefinitions )$, proposedintheCodeofJudicialConductthatappearintheCode `*%- ofConductforJudicialAppointees,substituting judicial 6+&. appointeefor judge.Followingtheproposednewdefinitionof  ,\'/  judicialappointeeisacrossreferencetoRule16816a,where ,2(0 thereisadefinitionofjudicialappointeeforpurposesof -)1 filingafinancialdisclosurestatement. .)2 ЇCanon1    ProposedCanon1retainsthecurrentreferenceto judicial \ systembutotherwisetrackstheparallelCanon1proposedfor 2 theCodeofJudicialConduct. X Canon2     ProposedCanon2retainsthecurrentreferenceto 6    position,insomeinstancessubstitutingitfor appointment,  \  andthecurrentreferencesto judicialsystemand official  2  conductandresponsibilitiesbutgenerallytrackstheparallel   Canon2proposedfortheCodeofJudicialConduct,exceptthatin   theCommenttoproposedCanon2B,thesentenceoninitiating d  communicationswithasentencingjudgeorcorrectionsor :  probationofficerisomitted. `  Canon3    ProposedCanon3trackstheparallelCanon3proposedfor > theCodeofJudicialConductexceptastoretentionof d  position, judicialsystem,andrecusalofaparttime : judicialappointee,andtheomissionof jurorsand court  officialsinproposedCanon3B(5),communicationwithajury  (proposedCanon3B(10)),andsupervisoryauthorityasto l judicialperformance(proposedCanon3C(3)).InproposedCanon B 3BandC,referencestoindividualswhoaresubjecttothe h judicialappointeesdirectionandcontrolusethephrase >  personnelsubjectto...or courtpersonnelandotherssubject  to...,asappropriate.    AnonsubstantiveareaofdisagreementbetweentheJudicial F ! EthicsCommitteeandtheRulesCommitteeinvolvesthetaglinefor !l" Canon3B.TheJudicialEthicsCommitteefavorsretainingthe !B# phrase AdjudicativeResponsibilities,whichisused "$ substantivelyinproposedCanon3B(6)(f),whiletheRules #% Committeesuggeststhatthephrase Responsibilitiesforthe t$& ConductofProceedingsismoreappropriate. J% '   IntheCommenttoproposedCanon3B(6),referencesinthe &F") proposedCodeofJudicialConducttorequestingabriefamicus '#* curiaeandtocommunicationswithappellatecourtsareomitted. (#+ Canon4 0+&.   InproposedCanon4, extraofficialand positionare ,,(0 retained. -)1  .)2   TheCommentstoproposedCanon4CandD(5)intheCodeof  JudicialConductareomitted.    InproposedCanon4D(1)(b), theappointingcourtin 2 mattersrelatingtothejudicialappointeesdutiesand X authorityisretained.Theexceptionforacceptanceofcampaign . contributionsbyajudge(proposedCanon4D(4)(a)oftheCodeof   JudicialConduct)isomitted.       TheparagraphintheCommenttoproposedCanon4Dasto 6   inapplicabilitytoparttimejudicialappointeesisretainedfrom  \  thecurrentCode.  2    ProposedCanon4E(FiduciaryActivities)doesnottrack   proposedCanon4FoftheCodeofJudicialConduct,becausethe d  provisionsinthecurrentCodesarenotparallelandthe :  statutorylimitationsareapplicableonlytojudges(andto `  clerksandregisters). 6   TheproposedCommenttoCanon4Fretainsthereferenceto   applyingmethodsofalternativedisputeresolutionthatare h includedinthejudicialappointeesofficialduties,whichdoes > notappearintheparallelprovisionoftheCodeofJudicial d Conduct. :   ProposedCanon4G(2)substitutesthephrase [t]othe  extentnotexpresslyprohibitedbylawortheappointing l authorityandsubjecttootherapplicableprovisionsofthis B Codeforthelimitingreferenceto theextentpermittedby... h theappointingauthorityinthecurrentCodeofConductfor > JudicialAppointees.TheparallelCanon4G(2)(a)ofthe  proposedCodeofJudicialConductrefers [t]otheextent  expresslyallowedbylawandsubjecttootherapplicable p  provisionsofthisCode. F !   Theword shouldisretainedinproposedCanon4G(5).The !B# statutoryprovisiongoverningjudgesallows,ratherthan "$ requires,anagreementwithaformerlawfirm!although #% mandatingrecusal.TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehasproposed, t$& asdescribedabove,deletionofthecomparableprovisionsofthe J% ' currentCodeofJudicialConductforreviewofsuchagreements  &p!( (Canon4I(b)(2)(4)ofMarylandCode(1987)). &F") Canon5 x)$,   InproposedCanon5B(1)(d),thereferenceto office $+t&. trackstheparallelCanonproposedintheCodeofJudicial +J'/ Conduct,ratherthanusing positionaselsewhereintheCodeof , (0 ConductforJudicialAppointees.Thisusagereflectsthatthe -(1  officeisthejudicialofficeforwhichthejudicialappointee |.)2 iscampaigning.    ProposedCanon5DduplicatesproposedCodeofJudicial \ ConductCanon5D,whichappliestolawyercandidates,butthere 2 isagap,however,withrespectto,e.g.,aDistrictCourt X commissionerrunningforOrphansCourtjudge.Accordingly,the 4 provision(otherthanthereferencetoincumbentjudges)is   repeatedhereforcompleteness. f  Canon6  8    InproposedCanon6,thecurrentreferencetogroundsfor   disciplinaryactionisretained,sincethecurrentreference j  differsfromthecomparable,currentprovisionintheCodeof @  JudicialConduct. f  Rule16816.FinancialDisclosureStatement!JudicialAppointees    TheproposedamendmentstoRule16816requirethatall J mastersandDistrictCourtcommissioners!whetherfullorpart  p timefilefinancialdisclosurestatements.Currently,apart F timemasterorcommissionerisrequiredtofileonlyifheorshe  meetstheearningsrequirementssetforthinsectionaofthe  Rule. x   Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15610(a)requiresthe $t CourtofAppealstoadoptrulesthatrequiretheindividuals J listedin15601(b)tofileafinancialdisclosurestatement.   BecausethelatterCodesectionstatesthatjudicialappointees  aredefinedinRule16814,acrossreferencetoRule16816ais |  proposedtobeaddedfollowingthedefinitionofjudicial R ! appointeeintheTerminologysectionofRule16814. (!x"   Inaddition,acrossreferencetotheTerminologysectionof "$$ Rule16814isproposedtobeaddedfollowingsectionaofRule #% 16816. $& @44Maryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConduct, '(#* @44Rule3.5,ImpartialityandDecorumoftheTribunal ($+   Rule3.5oftheMaryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessional <+&. Conductisproposedtobeamendedtoprohibitalawyerfrom ,b'/ discussingpotentialemploymentofajudgebeforewhomthelawyer ,8(0 orthelawyersfirmhasapendingmatter.Theamendmentis -)1 proposedinconjunctionwithproposedchangestoCanon2Bofthe .)2 CodeofJudicialConductandtheCodeofConductforJudicial  Appointeesthatrequirejudgesandjudicialappointeesnotto  allowtheirconducttobeimproperlyinfluencedorappeartobe \ improperlyinfluencedbyemploymentoffersoropportunities. 2 @44Maryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConduct, `  @  Rule8.2,JudicialandLegalOfficials <     TheproposedamendmentstoRule8.2conformsection(b)to  >  theapplicablestandardspertainingtocandidatesforjudicial   officesetforthinproposedrevisedCanon5BoftheMaryland   CodeofJudicialConduct.TheRulesCommitteebelievesthatthe p  prohibitionssetforthasCanon5B(1)(b)and(1)(c)maynotbe F  constitutionalasappliedtolawyerswhoarenotjudges. l  Therefore,theseprohibitionshavenotbeenincludedinRule8.2. B   TheJudicialEthicsCommitteeandtheRulesCommittee t expresstheirgratitudefortheinvaluableassistanceoftheHon. J SallyD.AdkinsandM.PeterMoser,Esq.,inrevisingRule16  p 813,MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct. F   Becauseoftheextensiveproposedrevisionstothem,Rules  16813and16814arepresentedasnewRules,recommendedtobe x adoptedcontemporaneouslywiththerescissionofthecurrent N Rules.FortheCourtsreference,includedasanAppendixto $t thisReportandproposedruleschangesaremarkedcopiesof J currentRules16813and16814,shownwiththeamendmentsthat   wouldberequiredinordertochangethemtotheproposedrevised  Rules. |    FortheguidanceoftheCourtandthepublic,followingeach (!x" proposedrulechange,exceptproposednewRule16813forwhicha !N# detailedSourcenoteisprovided,isaReportersNotedescribing "$$ thereasonsfortheproposalandanychangesthatwouldbe #% effectedincurrentlaworpractice.Wecautionthatthese $& ReportersNoteswerepreparedinitiallyforthebenefitofthe V% ' RulesCommittee;theyarenotpartoftheRulesandhavenotbeen ,&|!( debatedorapprovedbytheCommittee;andtheyarenottobe 'R") regardedasanykindofofficialcommentorinterpretation.They '(#* areincludedsolelytoassisttheCourtinunderstandingsomeof (#+ thereasonsfortheproposedchanges. )$,   ,,(0    `     h   Respectfullysubmitted,     `     h   CharlotteM.Cooksey   9   `     h   Chairperson,JudicialEthicsCommittee   9   `     h   JosephF.Murphy,Jr.      `     h   Chairperson,RulesCommittee d     `     h   LindaM.Schuett h    `     h   ViceChairperson,RulesCommittee > CMC/JFM/LMS:cdc :  1 /Md.Constitution,ArticleIV,4Aprovides,inpertinentpart, l Ѐasfollows: B   (d)Thetermofofficeofeachmember[ofthe > ЀCommissiononJudicialDisabilities]isfouryears    commencingonJanuary1followingtheexpirationof    thememberspredecessorsterm.Amembermaynot p    servemorethantwofouryearterms,orformorethan F !   atotaloftenyearsifappointedtofillavacancy. !l"  2 /Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15102(11)defines #% Ѐ Stateofficialas: t$&    ` (1)0 aconstitutionalofficerorofficerelectinan  &p!( executiveunit;&F") (# (# 8   ` (2)0   amemberormemberelectoftheGeneral '#* Assembly;(#+  8  0`   0 ` `  ` (3) ajudgeorjudgeelectofacourtunder x)$, ArticleIV,1oftheConstitution;N*%-  8   ` (4) ajudicialappointeeasdefinedinMaryland$+t&.      `  Rule16814; +J'/ 8   ` (5) aStatesAttorney;, (0   8   ` (6) aclerkofthecircuitcourt;-(1     |.)2 8   ` (7) aregisterofwills;or   8   ` (8) asheriff.    3 /JudicialEthicsCommittee > ЀRequestforOpinion  d   ........................................................  : ЀTobecompletedbyRequester     NameofRequester:..................................... l   @*  DateofRequest:....................................... h    DeadlineforResponse:.................................     Iunderstandthatanopinionorletterofadvice,ifany, p  Ѐissuedinresponsetothisrequesthasnoretroactive F    effectand,astofutureconduct,obviatesaviolationof l   applicablelawonlytotheextentthatIamincompliance B   withtheopinionorletterofadvice.TheJudicialEthics    CommitteecanbestrespondifIprovidefullinformation    inconnectionwiththeconducttowhichtherequest t   pertains. J   Tothebestofmyknowledge,theconducttowhichthe F   requestpertainsisnotthesubjectofapendingor    impendinginvestigationorotheractionoftheCommission    onJudicialDisabilitiesorofacourt. x   SignatureofRequester:............................... $t  4 /0  2003ReportoftheAmericanBarAssociationStanding , |" CommitteeonJudicialIndependenceandtheStanding !R# CommitteeonEthicsandProfessionalResponsibility,at13.!($(#(#   "% @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X   ADDnewRule16812.1,asfollows:   Rule16812.1.JUDICIALETHICSCOMMITTEE  \  Ӏ(a)Definitions     InthisRulethefollowingdefinitionsapplyexceptas :  expresslyotherwiseprovidedorasnecessaryimplication 6 requires:  Ѐ(1)Committee >   CommitteemeanstheJudicialEthicsCommittee. : Ѐ(2)EthicsProvision    Ethicsprovisionmeans: B   (A)aprovisionofCode,StateGovernmentArticle,Title > 15,Subtitle5or6;    (B)astoajudge,alsoaprovisionoftheMarylandCode F ! ofJudicialConduct;and !B#   (C)astoajudicialappointeeasdefinedinRule16814, #% alsoaprovisionoftheMarylandCodeofConductforJudicial J% ' Appointees. &F") Ѐ(3)StateOfficialinJudicialBranch (#+   StateofficialintheJudicialBranchmeansan N*%- individualwhoisintheJudicialBranchandisaStateofficial, +J'/ asdefinedinCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102. -(1 Ѐ(b)Creation    ThereisaJudicialEthicsCommittee. \ Ѐ(c)Composition X   TheCommitteeconsistsofninemembersappointedbythe   ChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppeals.Oftheninemembers: `  Ѐ(1)oneshallbeajudgeoftheCourtofSpecialAppeals;  \  Ѐ(2)oneshallbeajudgeofacircuitcourt;   Ѐ(3)oneshallbeajudgeoftheDistrictCourt; d  Ѐ(4)threeshallbejudgesoftheCourtofSpecialAppeals,a `  circuitcourt,theDistrictCourt,oranorphanscourt;   Ѐ(5)oneshallnotbeajudgeorotherofficeroremployeeof h theJudicialBranchoftheStategovernmentXXXXoralawyer#XXXX#;and d Ѐ(6)twoshallnotbejudges.  Ѐ(d)Term l Ѐ(1)ThetermofamemberisthreeyearsandbeginsonJuly h 1.  Ѐ(2)Thetermsofthemembersshallbestaggeredsothatthe p  termsofthreemembersexpireeachyear. !l" Ѐ(3)Attheendofaterm,amembercontinuestoserveuntil "$ asuccessorisappointed. t$& Ѐ(4)Amemberwhoisappointedafteratermhasbegunserves  &p!( onlyfortherestofthetermanduntilasuccessorisappointed. '#* Ѐ(5)AmemberappointedonorafterJuly1,2005,maynot x)$, servemorethantwoconsecutivethreeyearterms.   $+t&.   , (0 Ѐ(e)ChairandViceChair    TheChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppealsshalldesignate \ onejudicialmemberastheChairoftheCommitteeandone X judicialmemberastheViceChair.Intheabsenceordisability   oftheChairoruponanexpressdelegationofauthoritybythe `  Chair,theViceChairshallhavetheauthorityandperformthe  \  dutiesoftheChair.   Ѐ(f)Meetings d    TheCommitteeshallmeetatthetimesandplacesthatthe `  Chairdirects.   Ѐ(g)Quorum h   Thepresenceofamajorityofthemembersthenserving d constitutesaquorumforthetransactionofallbusinessother  thanadjournmentofameetingforlackofaquorum. l Ѐ(h)CommitteeStaff h   TheCommitteeshallhavestaffastheStateCourt  Administratordirects. p  Ѐ(i)Duties !l"   Inadditiontoitsotherdutiesimposedbylaw,the "$ Committee: t$& Ѐ(1)shallgiveadvice,asprovidedinthisRule,withrespect  &p!( totheapplicationorinterpretationoftheMarylandCodeof '#* JudicialConductandtheMarylandCodeofConductforJudicial x)$, Appointees; $+t&. Ѐ(2)isdesignatedasthebodytogiveadvicewithrespectto  , (0 theapplicationorinterpretationofanyprovisionofCode,State  GovernmentArticle,Title15,Subtitles5and6,toaState \ officialintheJudicialBranch; X Ѐ(3)shallreviewtimelyappealsfromtheStateCourt   Administratorsdecisionnottoextend,underRule16815or `  16816,theperiodforfilingafinancialdisclosurestatement;  \  Ѐ(4)shalldetermine,underRule16815forRule16816g,   whethertoallowajudgeorjudicialappointeetocorrecta d  deficiencyastoafinancialdisclosurestatementortoreferthe `  matter,astoajudge,totheCommissiononJudicialDisabilities   or,astoajudicialappointee,totheStateEthicsCommission; h and d Ѐ(5)shallsubmittotheCourtofAppealsrecommendationsfor  necessaryordesirablechangesinanyethicsprovision. l Ѐ(j)OpinionsandLettersofAdvice h Ѐ(1)Requester    ArequestfortheopinionoftheCommitteemaybemade p  onlyby: !l" Ѐ(A)aStateofficialintheJudicialBranch,astothe "$ properapplicationofanethicsprovisiontothatStateofficial; t$& or  &p!(   (B)theChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppeals,astothe '#* properinterpretationofanethicsprovision. x)$, Ѐ(2)FormofRequest $+t&.   EachrequestforanopinionoftheCommitteeshall: , (0   |.)2 Ѐ(A)beinwriting;    (B)describetheactoractivityaboutwhichtheopinionis \ requested; X   (C)includealldocumentationorotherinformation   necessaryfortheCommitteetoperformitsfunction,whichmay `  includecitationtorules,statutes,andpublishedopinionsof  \  theCommitteethattherequesterbelievestoberelevanttothe   request;and d  Ѐ(D)includeanaddresstowhichtheCommitteeshalldirect `  correspondence.   Ѐ(3)Opinion h   TheCommitteemayrenderanopinion,inwriting,with d regardtoanyrequestmadeunderthisRuleandshalldecide  whetheranopinionistobepublishedorunpublished.TheChair l shallcausetobepreparedaneditedversionofeachopinion h designatedtobepublished,inwhichtheidentityandspecific  courtorgeographicallocationoftherequesterandtheidentity p  ofotherpersonsmentionedintheopinionshallnotbeXXXXdisclosed#XXXX# !l" andshallhavetheopinionpublishedinthemannerthattheState "$ CourtAdministratordeemsproper. t$& Ѐ(4)LetterofAdvice  &p!(   IftheChairdecidesthatthefullCommitteecannot '#* provideatimelywrittenopinionorthatprioropinionsofthe x)$, CommitteerenderfullCommitteereviewunnecessary,apanelof $+t&. notlessthanthreemembersappointedbytheChairmayissuea  , (0 writtenletterofadvice,whichshallnotbepublishedandshall  havenoprecedentialeffect. \ Ѐ(5)ProtectionfromaChargeofViolation X   AStateofficialintheJudicialBranchwhorequestsan   opinionastoapplicationofanethicsprovisionandisin `  compliancewithanopinionof,orletterofadviceissuedfor,  \  theCommitteeisprotectedfromachargeofviolationofthat   ethicsprovision. d  Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteenotedthat,given `  thebindingeffectofopinions,theygenerallyshouldbeissued 6 onlytoaStateofficialintheJudicialBranchrequestingadvice   astotheofficialsownconduct.Thispracticewouldavoid  commenteitheronhypotheticalconductorconductincompletelyor h inaccuratelydescribed.However,theremaybeinstances,suchas > thoseinwhichanopinionwouldaffectnumerousStateofficials d intheJudicialBranchortheimplementationofadministrative : duties,thatmakeitappropriatetohaveamechanismfor  requestinganinterpretationofanethicsprovisionbutnotan  opinionastoitsapplication.Therefore,languageinformer l MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct(1987),Canon7suggestingthat B personsotherthanaStateofficialintheJudicialBranchcould h requestanopinionhasbeenomitted,butaprovisionforthe > ChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppealstorequestguidanceon  interpretationhasbeenadded.Theadditionispatternedonthe  practiceforrequestinganopinionfromtheAttorneyGeneral. p  Ӏ(6)Filing;Confidentiality !l"   TheChairshallfilewiththeStateCourtAdministrator "$ everyopinionof,andletterofadviceissuedfor,theCommittee. t$& Arequestandtheletterofadviceortheopinion,otherthanthe  &p!( editedversiondesignatedtobepublished,filedinresponseare '#* confidentialand,unlessotherwisedirectedbytheCourtof x)$, Appealsorrequiredbylaw,arenotpublicinformation. $+t&.   , (0 Crossreference:SeeRule16-813(MarylandCodeofJudicial  Conduct)andRule16814(MarylandCodeofConductforJudicial  Appointees). \ Source:ThisRuleisderivedfromformerMarylandCodeof X JudicialConduct(1987),Canon7,asitwassetforthinformer . Rule1231(renumberedRule16813byRulesOrderdatedJanuary   18,1996,effectiveJuly1,1996).   @hh#REPORTERSNOTE  \    TheJudicialEthicsandtheRulesCommitteeproposethat   Canon7ofthecurrentMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct(1987),   bechangedorganizationally,bysettingitforthasarule d  separatefromtheXXXXMaryland#XXXX#ԀCodeofJudicialConduct,and :  substantively,bysupplementingtheprovisionsonappointment, `  termofmembership,XXXXofficers,#XXXX#Ԁmeetings,quorum,staff,formof 6 requests,identityofrequesters,formandeffectofresponsesby   orfortheJudicialEthicsCommittee,andpublicationof  opinions. h   TheCommitteeshaveincludedinthelistofresponsibilities d referencetodutiesstatedinotherMarylandlaw.Thedutyto : reviewterminationagreementswithlawfirms,statedinMaryland  CodeofJudicialConduct(1987),Canon4I(2)through(4),is  omittedinlightoftheproposeddeletionofthoseprovisions. l   > @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X   ADDnewRule16813,asfollows:   Rule16-813.MARYLANDCODEOFJUDICIALCONDUCT  \  @  &Preamble     Itisfundamentaltoourlegalsystemthatourlawsbe `  interpretedbyacompetent,fair,honorable,andindependent   judiciary.SuchajudiciaryisessentialtotheAmericanconcept h ofjustice.IntrinsictoallsectionsofthisCodearethe d preceptsthat,individuallyandcollectively,judgesmusthonor  andrespectthejudicialofficeasapublictrustandstriveto l enhanceandmaintainpublicconfidenceinourlegalsystem.A h judge,asarbiteroffactsandlawfortheresolutionof  disputes,isahighlyvisiblesymbolofgovernmentundertherule p  oflaw. !l"   ThisCodesetsforthbasicstandardsfortheconductofall "$ judgesandprovidesguidanceinestablishingandmaintaininghigh t$& standardsofjudicialandpersonalconduct.  &p!(   ThisCodeconsistsofaTerminologysection,Canons,which '#* setforthspecificrulesofconduct,andComments,whichprovide x)$, guidanceonthepurposeandmeaningoftheCanonsbutarenot $+t&. intendedasstatementsofadditionalrules. , (0   When shallor shallnotisusedinthetextofaCanon, |.)2 itisintendedtoimposeabindingobligation,theviolationof  whichcanresultindisciplinaryaction.When shouldor \  shouldnotisused,thetextisintendedashortatoryandasa X statementofwhatisorisnotappropriateconductbutnotasa   bindingobligationunderwhichajudgemaybedisciplined.When `   mayisused,itdenotespermissiblediscretionor,dependingon  \  thecontext,referstoactionthatisnotcoveredbyspecific   prohibitions. d    Evenastobindingobligations,however,itisnotintended `  thateverytransgressionresultindisciplinaryaction.Whether   disciplinaryactionisappropriate,andthedegreeofdiscipline h tobeimposed,shoulddependonfactorssuchastheseriousness d ofthetransgression,whetherthetransgressionisisolatedor  partofapatternofimproperactivity,andtheeffectofthe l improperactivityonothersoronthejudicialsystem. h   TheCanonsarerulesofreasonthatshouldbeappliedinthe  contextofallrelevantcircumstancesandinamannerthatis p  consistentwithconstitutionalrequirements,statutes,other !l" courtrules,anddecisionallaw.ThisCodeshouldbeconstrued "$ inawaythatneitherinfringesontheessentialindependenceof t$& judgesinmakingjudicialdecisionsnordiscouragescandidates  &p!( fromseekingjudicialoffice. '#*   ThisCodeincludesastructureforregulatingconduct x)$, throughdisciplinaryagencies,whenappropriate.Itisnot $+t&. intendedtobeabasisforcivilliabilityorcriminal  , (0 prosecution.ThisCodeshouldnotbeinvokedformeretactical  advantageinaproceeding. \   IninterpretingthisCode,attentionshouldbegiventothe X opinionsoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeand,ifappropriate,   theCommitteeshouldbeaskedforawrittenletterofadviceora `  bindingopinion.  \  Committeenote:ThisCodereplacestheMarylandCodeofJudicial   ConductoriginallyadoptedbyRulesOrderdatedNovember21,   1986,effectiveJuly1,1987,asamendedfromtimetotime d  ( MarylandCode(1987)).ThisCodeisderivedfromtheMaryland :  Code(1987)andtheModelCodeofJudicialConductadoptedbythe `  AmericanBarAssociationin2000,withamendmentsinAugust2003. 6 ThederivationofparticularprovisionsofthisCodeisdescribed   ingreaterdetailintheSourceNoteattheendofthisCode.    TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehaspublishedopinionson > issuessuchasajudgeowningcommercialrealestate(permissible d onlyifnoappearanceofimproprietywouldresult),acceptingan : expensepaidtrip,andgrantingastetorprobationconditioned  onacriminaldefendantmakingamonetarydonation.Adminis  trativeOrdersoftheChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppealsalso l mayprovideguidance.Forexample,astotheantinepotism B policyoftheJudicialBranch,seetheOrdersdatedOctober3, h 1996andJanuary31,1997. >   p  @XX%Terminology    Termsexplainedbelowarenotedinboldfacetypeinthe \ CanonsandCommentswheretheyappear. 8   InthisCodethefollowingdefinitionsapplyexceptas   expresslyotherwiseprovidedorasnecessaryimplication l  requires:  h  Ѐ(a)Fiduciary      Fiduciary includesadministrator,attorneyinfactby p  powerofattorney,executor,guardian,personalrepresentative, 8  andtrustee. 4 Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and(2)and4E.Fora  definitionof guardian,seeRule1202(j). f Ӏ(b)Gift b    Gift hasthemeaningstatedinCode,StateGovernment  Article,15102.  Crossreference:SeeCanon4D(5). 2 Ӏ(c)Honorarium .    Honorarium hasthemeaningstatedinCode,State  ! GovernmentArticle,15102. R"# Ѐ(d)Impartial,Impartiality,orImpartially #N%    Impartial ,  impartiality ,or  impartially denotes % ' absenceofbiasorprejudiceinfavorof,oragainst,apartyor r'") classofparties,aswellasmaintaininganopenmindin )n$+ consideringeachissuethatisormaycomebeforethejudge. *&- Crossreference:SeeCanons2A;3A,B(9),andD(1);4A(1); v,'/ and5B(1)(a)and(d). L-(0 _ ".r)1 @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion   Ѐ (e)Knowingly,Knowledge,Known,orKnows x   Knowingly, knowledge, known,or knowsmeansactual @ knowledgeofthefactinquestion.Actualknowledgemaybe  X inferredfromcircumstances.   Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and    (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e). |  @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  (x  Ѐ (e)Know  @   Knowmeanstohaveactualknowledgeofthefactin  question,asmaybeinferredfromcircumstances.  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and H (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).  ,| Ӏ(f)MemberofJudgesFamily 6    Memberofthejudgesfamily meansaspouse,child,  grandchild,parent,grandparent,orotherrelativeorindividual Z withwhomajudgemaintainsaclosefamilialrelationship.  V Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and4E(1)(b)and(d)and !! G(1). "" Ӏ(g)MemberofJudgesHousehold 4$$    Memberofthejudgeshousehold hasthemeaningstated %0!& inCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102for memberof '"( household. T)$* Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(2)and4D(5). +P&, Ѐ(h)PoliticalOrganization ,'.   X.)0    Politicalorganization meansapoliticalpartyorother  group,theprincipalpurposeofwhichistofurthertheelection x orappointmentofacandidatetopoliticaloffice. $t Crossreference:SeeCanon5B(1)(b)and(c).   Ѐ(_i_)Require |     Require, inthecontextthatajudge  require certain ( x  conductofothers,meansthatthejudgeistotakereasonable @  stepstodirectandcontroltheconductofthosepersons.   Crossreference:SeeCanon3B(3),(5),(8),and(11)andC(2). H  Ӏ(j)SignificantFinancialInterest D @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  v  򀀀(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeansownershipof: > Ѐ(A)aninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhas V receivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrentlyreceiving,or  inthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear;  Ѐ(B)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or ^   (C)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris &!v! convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.  "># @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  % &  򀀀(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeans: T'"(   (A)ownershipofaninterestastheresultofwhichthe )l$* ownerhasreceivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrently *4&, receiving,orinthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan  ,'. $1,000peryear;or  Ѐ(B)ownershipbyajudgeorjudgesspouseof: x   (_i_)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or @   (ii)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris  X convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.    Ӏ(2)Inapplyingthisdefinition: n  Ѐ(A)ownershipofaninterestinamutualorcommon j  investmentfundthatholdsasecurityisnotownershipofthe   securityunless: r Ѐ(_i_)thejudge [AlternativeBAdd: orspousehere]  n participatesinthemanagementofthefund;or 6 Ѐ(ii)thereisbeforethejudgeaproceedingthatcould  substantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest,orsuch > proceedingisimminent; : Ѐ(B)ownershipofagovernmentsecurityisnota significant  financialinterest intheissuerunlessthereisbeforethejudge ^ aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthe &!v! security,orsuchproceedingisimminent; ""# Ѐ(C)neitheradepositinafinancialinstitutionnora ~$% proprietaryinterestsuchasorsimilartothatofadepositorin *&z!' amutualsavingsassociation,memberinacreditunion,orpolicy '&#) holderinamutualinsurancecompanyisa significantfinancial )$+ interest intheentityunlessthereisbeforethejudgea J+&- proceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthe -b(/ depositorinterest,orsuchproceedingisimminent;and  Ѐ(D)anownershipinterestinasecurityheldbya \ charitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,or X religiousorganizationwillnotbeimputedtoajudgemerely   becausethejudgeorthejudgeschild,parent,orspouseisan `  advisertoordirectororofficerof,orotherwiseactively  \  participatesin,theorganization.   Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(c)and(d)(iii). d  Ѐ(k)ThirdDegreeofRelationship `     Thirddegreeofrelationship meanstherelationship   betweenajudgeandthefollowingindividuals:agreat  grandparent,grandparent,parent,uncle,aunt,brother,sister, 0 child,grandchild,greatgrandchild,nephew,orniece. , Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(d).      _@HH'CANON1  @ IntegrityandIndependenceoftheJudiciary 2   Anindependentandhonorablejudiciaryisindispensableto   justiceinoursociety.Ajudgeshallobservehighstandardsof 6   conductsothattheintegrityandindependenceofthejudiciary  2  willbepreserved.TheprovisionsofthisCodearetobe   construedandappliedtofurtherthatobjective. :  ̀@HH'COMMENT     Deferencetothejudgmentsandrulingsofcourtsdepends h uponpublicconfidenceintheintegrityandindependenceof > judges.Theintegrityandindependenceofjudgesdependinturn d upontheiractingwithoutfearorfavor.Ajudiciaryof : integrityisoneinwhichjudgesareknownfortheirfairness,  honesty,probity,soundnessofcharacter,anduprightness.An  independentjudiciaryisonefreeofinappropriateoutside l influence.Althoughjudgesshouldbeindependent,theymust B complywiththelaw,includingtheprovisionsofthisCode. h Publicconfidenceinthe impartiality ofthejudiciaryis > maintainedbytheadherenceofeachjudgetothisresponsibility. " Conversely,violationofthisCodediminishespublicconfidence  inthejudiciaryandtherebydoesinjurytothesystemof ~  governmentunderlaw. T !   $& @HH'CANON2  @TT AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety 2 A.Ajudgeshallavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceof   impropriety.Ajudgeshallrespectandcomplywiththelawand 6   shallactatalltimesinamannerthatpromotespublic  2  confidenceinthe impartiality andintegrityofthejudiciary.   @HH'COMMENT ,|    Publicconfidenceinthejudiciaryiserodedbyirresponsi ( bleorimproperconductbyjudges.Ajudgemustexpecttobethe  subjectofconstantpublicscrutiny.Ajudgemusttherefore  acceptrestrictionsonhisorherconductthatmightbeviewedas Z burdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyand 0 willingly.Examplesaretherestrictionsonajudgesspeech V imposedbyCanon3B(8)and(9)thatareindispensabletothe , maintenanceofthe impartiality ,independence,andintegrityof  thejudiciary.    Theobligationtoavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceof B improprietyappliestoboththeprofessionalandpersonalconduct h ofajudge.Becauseitisnotpracticabletolistallprohibited > acts,theobligationisnecessarilycastingeneraltermsthat  extendtoconductbyjudgesthatisharmfulalthoughnot   specificallymentionedinthisCode.Actualimproprietiesunder p ! thisstandardincludeviolationsoflaw,otherspecific F!" provisionsofthisCode,orothercourtrules.Thetestfor "l# appearanceofimproprietyiswhethertheconductwouldcreatein "B$ reasonablemindsaperceptionthatthejudgesabilitytocarry #% outjudicialresponsibilitieswithcompetence, impartiality ,and $& integrityisimpaired.SeealsotheCommenttoCanon2C. % ' B.Ajudgeshallnotallowjudicialconducttobeimproperly (*$+ influencedorappeartobeimproperlyinfluencedbyafamily, *%- political,social,orotherrelationshiporbyanemployment 2,'/  -.)1 offeroropportunity.Ajudgeshallnotlendorusetheprestige  ofjudicialofficetoadvancetheprivateinterestsofthejudge \ orothers;norshallajudgeconveyorpermitotherstoconvey X theimpressionthattheyareinaspecialpositiontoinfluence   judicialconduct.Ajudgeshallnottestifyvoluntarilyasa `  characterwitness.  \  @HH'COMMENT     Maintainingtheprestigeofjudicialofficeisessentialto d  asystemofgovernmentinwhichthejudiciaryfunctions :  independentlyoftheexecutiveandlegislativebranches.Respect `  forthejudicialofficefacilitatestheorderlyconductof 6 legitimatejudicialfunctions.Judgesshoulddistinguishbetween   properandimproperuseoftheprestigeofofficeinalloftheir  activities.Forexample,itwouldbeimproperforajudgeto h alludetohisorherjudgeshiptogainapersonaladvantage,such > asdeferentialtreatmentwhenstoppedbyapoliceofficerfora d trafficoffense.Similarly,judicialletterheadmustnotbeused : forconductingajudgespersonalbusiness.    Ajudgealsomustavoidlendingorusingtheprestigeof l judicialofficefortheadvancementoftheprivateinterestsof B others.Forexample,ajudgemustnotusethejudgesjudicial h positiontogainadvantageinacivilsuitinvolvinga memberof > thejudgesfamily .Astotheacceptanceofawards,seeCanon4D " (5)(c)andtheaccompanyingComment.    Althoughajudgeshouldbesensitivetopossibleabuseof b ! theprestigeofoffice,ajudgemayserveasareferenceor 8!" providealetterofrecommendationbasedonthejudgesown "^#  knowledge .Ajudgemustnotinitiate,however,apersonal "4$ communicationofinformationtoasentencingjudgeora #% correctionsorprobationofficerbutmayprovidetosuch $& officialsinformationfortherecordinresponsetoaformal t% ' request. J&!(   Judgesmayparticipateintheprocessofjudicialselection 'F#* bycooperatingwithappointingauthoritiesandscreening ($+ committeesseekingnamesforconsideration. )$,   Ajudgemustnottestifyvoluntarilyasacharacterwitness N+&. becausetodosomaylendtheprestigeofjudicialofficein $,t'/ supportofthepartyforwhomthejudgetestifies.Ajudgemay, ,J(0 however,testifywhenproperlysubpoenaed. - )1 ЇCommitteenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehasheldthata  judgesjudicialandnonjudicialactivitiesshouldnotraise  questionsastoimproperfavoritism,partiality,orinfluencedue \ tofamilialorsocialconnections,indebtedness(suchasmight 2 arisethroughreferralofbusinesstofamilyorfriend), X politicalendorsement,acceptanceofgifts,fundraising,or . entrepreneurialactivities.   C.Ajudgeshallnotholdmembershipinanyorganizationthat 6   practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnational  2  origin,race,religion,orsex.   @HH'COMMENT :  ̀Membershipofajudgeinanorganizationthatpractices 6 invidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnationalorigin,race,   religion,orsexgivesrisetoperceptionsthatthejudge's   impartiality isimpaired.Itisthereforeinappropriatefora h judgetocontinuetoholdmembershipinanorganizationthatthe L judge knows ,orreasonablyshould know ,practicesandwill "r continuetopracticesuchinvidiousdiscriminationsoastogive V risetotheperceptionthatthejudge's impartiality isimpaired. , Membershipinanorganizationwouldnotbeprohibitedunlessthat  membershipwouldreasonablygiverisetoaperceptionof  partiality.Certainorganizations!suchascongregational l brotherhoods,sisterhoods,orbowlingleagues!maywellbe B restrictedtoindividualsbelongingtotheparticular h congregationandthereforetothosesharingaparticular > religiousbelief,butitisunlikelythatmembershipinsuchan  organizationwouldcausepeoplereasonablytobelievethatthe   judgeispartial. p !   Whetheranorganizationpracticesandwillcontinueto "l# practicethatkindofinvidiousdiscriminationisoftenacomplex "B$ questiontowhichjudgesshouldbesensitive.Theanswercannot #% bedeterminedmerelyfromanexaminationofanorganization's $& currentmembershiprollsbutmaydependon(1)thenatureand t% ' purposeoftheorganization,(2)anyrestrictionsonmembership, J&!( (3)thehistoryoftheorganization'sselectionofmembers,and  'p") (4)otherrelevantfactorssuchasthattheorganizationis 'F#* dedicatedtothepreservationofcultural,ethnic,orreligious ($+ valuesoflegitimatecommoninteresttoitsmembers,orthatit )$, is,infactandeffect,anintimate,purelyprivateorganization x*%- whosemembershiplimitationscouldnotbeconstitutionally N+&. prohibited.Absentsuchfactors,anorganizationisgenerally $,t'/ saidtodiscriminateinvidiouslyifitarbitrarilyexcludesfrom ,J(0 membership,onthebasisofnationalorigin,race,religion,or - )1 sex,individualswhootherwisewouldbeadmittedtomembership.    AlthoughCanon2Crelatesonlytomembershipinorganiza \ tionsthatinvidiouslydiscriminateonthebasisofnational 2 origin,race,religion,orsex,ajudge'smembershipinan X organizationthatengagesinanydiscriminatorymembership . practicesprohibitedbythelawofthejurisdictionalsoviolates   Canon2Aandgivestheappearanceofimpropriety.Inaddition,it   wouldbeaviolationofCanon2forajudgetoarrangeameeting `  ataclubthatthejudge knows practicesinvidiousdiscrimination 6   onthebasisofnationalorigin,race,religion,orsex,inits  j  membershiporotherpolicies,orforthejudgetousesuchclub  @  regularly.Moreover,publicmanifestationbyajudgeofthe   judge's knowing approvalofinvidiousdiscriminationonanybasis   givestheappearanceofimproprietyunderCanon2anddiminishes   publicconfidenceinthe impartiality andintegrityofthe V  judiciary,inviolationofCanon2A. :    Whenajudgelearnsthatanorganizationtowhichthejudge 6 belongsengagesininvidiousdiscriminationthatwouldpreclude   membershipunderCanon2CorunderCanon2A,thejudgeis  permitted,inlieuofresigning,tomakeimmediateeffortsto h havetheorganizationdiscontinueitsinvidiouslydiscriminatory > practices,butisrequiredtosuspendparticipationinallother d activitiesoftheorganization.Iftheorganizationfailsto : discontinueitsinvidiouslydiscriminatorypracticesaspromptly  aspossible(andinalleventswithintwoyearsofthejudge's  firstlearningofthepractices),thejudgeisrequiredtoresign l immediatelyfromtheorganization. B OY  F!" @HH'CANON3  @ PerformanceofJudicialDuties 2   Intheperformanceofjudicialduties,thefollowing   standardsapply. `  A.GENERALRESPONSIBILITIES.     Ajudgeshallperformthedutiesofjudicialoffice d  diligently, impartially ,andwithouthavingormanifestingbias `  orprejudice,includingbiasorprejudicebasedonage, ( disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual  orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus. 0 @HH'COMMENT    Ajudgemustperformjudicialdutiesfairlyand impartially . ^ Ajudgewhomanifestsbiasofanykindinaproceedingimpairs B thefairnessoftheproceedingandbringsthejudiciaryinto h disrepute.Facialexpressionandbodylanguage,inadditionto > oralcommunication,cangiveanappearanceofjudicialbias.A  judgemustbealerttoavoidbehaviorthatmaybeperceivedas   prejudicial.Forexample,ajudgemustrefrainfromcomment, p ! gesture,orotherconductthatcouldreasonablybeperceivedas F!" sexualharassment. "l# B.ADJUDICATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. t% ' Ѐ J&!(   (1)Ajudgeshallbefaithfultothelawandmaintain  'p") professionalcompetenceinit. ($+   (2)Ajudgeshallnotbeswayedbypartisaninterests, x*%- publicclamor,orfearofcriticism. $,t'/   (3)Ajudgeshall require orderanddecoruminproceedings - )1 beforethejudge.    (4)Ajudgeshallbedignified. \   (5)Ajudgeshallbecourteoustoandpatientwithjurors, X lawyers,litigants,witnesses,andotherswithwhomthejudge   dealsinanofficialcapacityandshall require similarconduct `  oflawyersandofcourtofficials,staff,andotherssubjectto ( x  thejudge'sdirectionandcontrol. $  @*@HH'COMMENT V    Thedutytohearallproceedingsfairlyandwithpatienceis R notinconsistentwiththedutytodisposepromptlyofthe ( businessofthecourt.Judgescanbebusinesslikeandefficient  whilebeingdeliberateandpatient.    (6)(a)Ajudgeshallaccordtoeverypersonwhohasa 0 legalinterestinaproceedingpendingbeforethejudge,orthat , personslawyer,therighttobeheardaccordingtolaw.  Ѐ(b)Whilepresidingoveraproceeding,ajudgeshall 4 neitherinitiate,permit,orconsiderexpartecommunicationsnor 0 considerothercommunicationsmadetothejudgeoutsidethe   presenceofthepartiesconcerningapendingorimpending D!" proceeding,exceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon3B(6). "@$   (c)Expartecommunicationsthatrelatetoschedulingor $& otheradministrativepurposesoremergenciesandnotto T&!( substantivemattersorissuesonthemeritsareauthorized,if: (P#* (i)circumstancesrequire;(ii)thejudgereasonablybelieves )$, thatnopartywillgainaproceduralortacticaladvantageasa X+&. resultofthecommunication;(iii)thejudgemakesprovision -T(0 promptlytonotifyallotherpartiesastothesubstanceofthe  expartecommunication;and(iv)thejudgeaffordstheparties \ reasonableopportunitytorespond. d   (d)Withtheconsentoftheparties,ajudgemayconfer   separatelywiththepartiesandtheirlawyersinaneffortto l  mediateorsettlematterspendingbeforethejudge.  h    (e)Ajudgemayobtaintheadviceofadisinterestedexpert   onthelawapplicabletoaproceedingifthejudge:(i)makes p  provisionpromptlytonotifyallofthepartiesastotheexpert l  consultedandthesubstanceoftheadvice;and(ii)affordsthe  partiesreasonableopportunitytorespond. t   (f)Ajudgemayconsultwithcourtpersonnelwhosefunction  p istoaidthejudgeincarryingoutthejudgesadjudicative  responsibilitiesandwithotherjudges. x   (g)Ajudgemayinitiateorconsideranexparte $t communicationwhenexpresslyauthorizedbylawtodoso. , @HH'COMMENT 4!"   Theprohibitionagainstcommunicationsconcerninga "0$ proceedingincludescommunicationsfromlawyers,lawteachers, #% andotherpersonswhoarenotparticipantsintheproceeding, $& excepttothelimitedextentpermitted. b% '   Totheextentpracticable,allpartiesortheirlawyersmust '^") beincludedincommunicationswithajudge. '4#*   WheneverCanon3B(6)requiresthepresenceof,ornotice )$, to,aparty,itisthepartyslawyeror,ifthepartyis f*%- unrepresented,thepartywhoistobepresentortowhomnotice <+&. istobegiven. ,b'/   -)1   Anappropriateandoftendesirableprocedureforacourtto  obtaintheadviceofadisinterestedexpertonlegalissuesisto  invitetheexperttofileabriefamicuscuriae. \   Canon3B(6)allowsforlimitedexpartecommunicationto ^ facilitateschedulingandotheradministrativepurposesandto : accommodateemergencies.Eventhen,however,ajudgemust   discourageexpartecommunicationandallowitonlyifallofthe   criteriastatedinCanon3B(6)clearlyaremet.Ajudgemust r  disclosetoallpartiesallexpartecommunicationdescribedin H   Canon3B(6)(c)and(e)regardingaproceedingpendingor $ t  impendingbeforethejudge.  J    Ajudgemustnotindependentlyinvestigatefactsinacase   andmustconsideronlytheevidencepresented,exceptmattersof |  whichthecourtproperlycantakejudicialnotice. R    Ajudgemayrequestapartytosubmitproposedfindingsof N factandconclusionsoflawifalloftheotherpartiesare $ apprisedoftherequestandgivenanopportunitytorespondto  theproposedfindingsandconclusions.    Ajudgemustmakereasonableefforts,includingthe ,| provisionofappropriatesupervision,toensurethatCanon3B(6) R isnotviolatedthroughlawclerksorotherpersonnelonthe ( judgesstaff.    Ifcommunicationbetweenatrialjudgeandappellatecourt Z withrespecttoaproceedingispermitted,acopyofallwritten 0 communicationsandthesubstanceofalloralcommunications V shouldbeprovidedtoallparties. ,   (7)Ajudgeshalldisposeofthebusinessofthecourt ^ ! efficiently,fairly,andpromptly.  "Z# @HH'COMMENT $&   Promptdispositionofthecourt'sbusinessrequiresajudge 8&!( todevoteadequatetimetojudicialduties,tobepunctualin '^") attendingcourtandexpeditiousindeterminingmattersunder '4#* submission,andtoinsistthatcourtofficialsandlitigantsand ( $+ theirlawyerscooperatetothatend. )$,   (8)Ajudgeshallabstainfrompubliccommentthatrelates <+&. toaproceedingpendingorimpendinginanycourtandthatmight ,8(0 reasonablybeexpectedtoaffecttheoutcomeofthatproceeding  ortoimpairthefairnessofthatproceedingandshall require  \ similarabstentiononthepartofcourtpersonnelsubjecttothe $t judge'sdirectionandcontrol.Canon3B(8)doesnotprohibita   judgefrommakingpublicstatementsinthecourseofofficial |  dutiesorfromexplainingforpublicinformationtheprocedures ( x  ofthecourt. $  @HH'COMMENT     "Courtpersonnel"doesnotincludethelawyersina ,|  proceedingbeforeajudge.Theconductoflawyersinthisregard R isgovernedbyRule3.6oftheMaryland[Lawyers']Rulesof ( ProfessionalConduct.    (9)Withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethatis 0 likelytocomebeforethecourt,ajudgeshallnotmakea , commitment,pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththe   impartial performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice. 4 @HH'COMMENT "   Canon3B(8)and(9)restrictionsonajudgesspeechare ~ ! essentialtothemaintenanceofthe impartiality ,independence, T!" andintegrityofthejudiciary.Apendingproceedingisonethat 8"# hasbegunbutnotyetreachedfinaldisposition.Animpending #^$ proceedingisonethatisanticipatedbutnotyetbegun.The #4% requirementthatajudgeabstainfrompubliccommentregardinga $ & pendingorimpendingproceedingcontinuesduringanyappellate % ' processanduntilfinaldisposition. f&!(   (10)Attheconclusionofajurytrial,thejudgeshallnot (b#* communicatetothejurythejudgespraiseorcriticismofthe )%, verdictbutmaythankthejurorsfortheirpublicservice. j+&.   -f(0 OY+    @HH'COMMENT    Commendingorcriticizingjurorsfortheirverdictmayimply \ ajudicialexpectationinfuturecasesandmayimpairajurors 2 abilitytobefairand impartial inasubsequentcase. X   (11)Ajudgeshall require lawyersinproceedingsbeforethe   judgetorefrainfrommanifesting,bywordorconduct,biasor   prejudicebaseduponage,disability,nationalorigin,race, 6   religion,sex,sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus. 2  Canon3B(11)doesnotprecludelegitimateadvocacywhensuch   statusorothersimilarfactorisanissueinaproceeding. :    (12)Unlessrecusalisappropriate,ajudgeshallhearand 6 decidemattersassignedtothejudge.  Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000 > oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties d for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment : officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle,  15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions  governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, l StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords) B andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). h C.ADMINISTRATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. p !   (1)Ajudgeshalldischargethejudge'sadministrative "l# responsibilitieswithoutfavoritismornepotismandshall #% cooperatewithotherjudgesandcourtofficialsinthe t% ' administrationofcourtbusiness.  'p")   (2)Ajudgeshall require courtofficials,staff,andothers ($+ subjecttothejudgesdirectionandcontroltoobservethe *%- standardsofdiligenceandfidelitythatapplytothejudgeand @,'/ torefrainfrommanifestingbiasorprejudiceintheperformance -<)1 oftheirofficialduties.    (3)Ajudgewithsupervisoryauthorityforthejudicial \ performanceofotherjudgesshalltakereasonablemeasuresto X ensurethepromptdispositionofmattersbeforethosejudgesand   theproperperformanceoftheirotherjudicialresponsibilities. `    (4)Ajudgeshallnotmakeunnecessaryappointmentsand  \  shallnotapprovecompensationofappointeesbeyondthefair   valueofservicesrendered. d  @HH'COMMENT 6 ̀Consentbythepartiestoanappointmentoranawardof  compensationdoesnotrelieveajudgeoftheobligation h prescribedbyCanon3C(4). >   D.RECUSAL.    (1)Ajudgeshallrecusehimselforherselffroma B proceedinginwhichthejudge's impartiality mightreasonablybe > questioned,includinganinstancewhen:     ` (a)thejudgehasapersonalbiasorprejudice b ! concerningapartyorapartyslawyerorextrajudicial "^#  knowledge ofadisputedevidentiaryfactconcerningthe # % proceeding; % '    ` (b)thejudgeservedasalawyerinthematterin .'~") controversy,oralawyerwithwhomthejudgepreviouslypracticed (*$+ lawservedduringsuchassociationasalawyerconcerningthe *%- matter,orthejudgehasbeenamaterialwitnessconcerningit; 2,'/   -.)1 @HH'COMMENT    Alawyerinagovernmentalagencydoesnotnecessarilyhave \ anassociationwithotherlawyersemployedbythatagencywithin 2 themeaningofCanon3D(1)(b);ajudgeformerlyemployedbya X governmentalagency,however,shouldnotparticipateina . proceedingifthejudge's impartiality mightreasonablybe   questionedbecauseofsuchassociation.      ` (c)thejudge knows thatheorshe,individuallyoras D   a fiduciary ,ora memberofthejudgesfamily ,hasa significant  \  financialinterest inthesubjectmatterincontroversyorina $  partytotheproceeding;   @HH'COMMENT n   Theremaybesituationsthatinvolvealesserfinancial  interestbutnonethelessrequirerecusalbecauseofthejudge's  ownsenseofpropriety.Conversely,therearesituationswhere v participationmaybeappropriateeventhoughthe"financial L interest"thresholdispresent.Inthelattercase,ajudge "r firstmustobtainanopinionfromtheJudicialEthicsCommittee H withregardtotheappropriateness,exceptasprovidedinCanon  3E(Non-recusalbyAgreement).     ` (d)thejudge,thejudgesspouse,anindividualwithin P the thirddegreeofrelationship toeitherofthem,orthespouse L ofsuchanindividual:  !    `  (i)isapartytotheproceedingoradirector, p"# officer,ortrusteeofaparty; $l%    `  (ii)isactingasalawyerintheproceeding; %!' @HH'COMMENT J(#*   Thefactthatalawyerinaproceedingisaffiliatedwitha )F%, lawfirmwithwhichalawyer-relativeofajudgeisaffiliated *&- doesnotofitselfrequirerecusalofthejudge.Under +&. appropriatecircumstances,thefactthat"thejudge's x,'/  impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned"underCanon3D(1),  N-(0 orthatthelawyer-relativeis known bythejudgetohavean  interestinthelawfirmthatcouldbe"substantiallyaffectedby  theproceeding"underCanon3D(1)(d)(iii),mayrequirethe j judge'srecusal. @    `  (iii)is known bythejudgetohavea significant < financialinterest thatcouldbesubstantiallyaffectedbythe   proceeding;or |      `  (iv)istothejudge's knowledge likelytobea (x  materialwitnessintheproceeding;or @     ` (e)thejudge,whileajudgeoracandidatefor   judicialoffice,hasmadeapublicstatementthatcommits,or H appearstocommit,thejudgewithrespectto: D    `  (i)anissueintheproceeding;or     `  (ii)thecontroversyintheproceeding. L Ѐ(2)Ajudgeshallkeepinformedaboutthejudgespersonal H and fiduciary financialinterestsandshallmakeareasonable  efforttokeepinformedaboutthepersonalfinancialinterestsof l each memberofthejudges household . h @HH'COMMENT !"   UnderCanon3D(1),ajudgemustrecusehimselforherself b#$ wheneverthejudges impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned, 8$% regardlessofwhetheranyofthespecificinstancesinCanon3D %l & (1)apply. %B!'   Ajudgemustdiscloseontherecordinformationthatthe '") judgebelievesthepartiesortheirlawyersmightconsider t(#* relevanttothequestionofrecusal,evenifthejudgebelieves J)$+ thatthereisnorealbasisforrecusal.  *p%,   Bydecisionallaw,theruleofnecessitymayoverridethe +'. ruleofrecusal.Forexample,ajudgemightberequiredto ,'/ participateinjudicialreviewofajudicialsalarystatuteor  x-(0 mightbetheonlyjudgeavailableinamatterrequiringimmediate  judicialaction,suchasahearingonprobablecauseora  temporaryrestrainingorder.Whentheruleofnecessitydoes \ overridetheruleofrecusal,thejudgemustdiscloseonthe 2 recordthebasisforpossiblerecusaland,ifpracticable,use X reasonableeffortstotransferthematterpromptlytoanother . judge.   E.NON-RECUSALBYAGREEMENT.  \  ЀIfrecusalwouldberequiredbyCanon3D,thejudgemay   discloseontherecordthereasonfortherecusal.Ifafter d  disclosureofanyreasonforrecusalotherthanasrequiredby `  Canon3D(1)(a),thepartiesandlawyers,outofthepresenceof   thejudge,allagreethatthejudgeneednotrecusehimselfor h herself,andthejudgeiswillingtoparticipate,theagreement d ofthepartiesshallbeincorporatedintherecord,andthejudge  mayparticipateintheproceeding. l @HH'COMMENT >   Thisproceduregivesthepartiesanopportunitytowaivethe  recusalifthejudgeagrees.Thejudgemaycommentonpossible p  waiverbutmustensurethatconsiderationofthequestionof F ! waiverismadeindependentlyofthejudge.Apartymayact !l" throughcounselifcounselrepresentsontherecordthatthe !B# partyhasbeenconsultedandconsents.Asapracticalmatter,a "$ judgemaywishtohaveallpartiesandtheirlawyerssigna #% waiveragreement. t$& F.DISCIPLINARYRESPONSIBILITIES. '#*   (1)Ajudgeshouldtakeorinitiateappropriatecorrective x)$, measureswithrespecttotheunprofessionalconductofanother $+t&. judgeoralawyer. , (0 Ѐ(2)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if  attempted,werenotsuccessful,ajudgeshallinformthe \ CommissiononJudicialDisabilitiesoffacts known tothatjudge X thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoanotherjudgesfitness   foroffice. |    (3)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if ( x  attempted,werenotsuccessful,ajudgeshallinformtheAttorney $  GrievanceCommissionoffacts known tothejudgethatraisea   substantialquestionastoalawyershonesty,trustworthiness, H  orfitnessasalawyerinotherrespects. D   (4)ActsofajudgerequiredorpermittedbyCanon3F(1),  (2),or(3)shallbeabsolutelyprivileged,andnocivilaction L predicatedthereonmaybeinstitutedagainstthejudge. H @HH'COMMENT z   Permittingajudgetotake"corrective"measuresgivesthe &v judgeawiderangeofoptionstodealwithunprofessional L conduct.Appropriatecorrectivemeasuresmayincludedirect " communicationwiththejudgeorlawyerwhoisbelievedtohave   committedtheviolationorotherdirectactionifavailable. ~ ! Theremaybeinstancesofprofessionalmisconductthatwould T!" warrantaprivateadmonitionorreferraltoabarassociation *"z# counselingservice. #P$   $& @&CANON4  (@(Extra-Judicial@@%Activities \ A.EXTRAJUDICIALACTIVITIESINGENERAL.     Ajudgeshallconductallextrajudicialactivitiessothat `  theydonot:@*  \    (1)causeasubstantialquestionastothejudgescapacity   toact impartially asajudge; d    (2)demeanthejudicialoffice;or ,|  Ѐ(3)interferewiththeproperperformanceofjudicial ( duties.  @HH'COMMENT V   Completeseparationofajudgefromextrajudicial  activitiesisneitherpossiblenordesirable.Ajudgeshouldnot  becomeisolatedfromthejudgescommunity. ^   Anextrajudicialactivity,however,maybeperceivedto  Z reflectonjudicialbehavior.Forexample,anexpressionofbias 0 orprejudicebyajudge,evenoutsidethejudgesjudicial  activities,maycauseasubstantialquestionastothejudges   capacitytoact impartially asajudge.Expressionsthatmaydo b ! soincludejokesorotherremarksdemeaningindividualsonthe F!" basisoftheirage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion, "l# sex,sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.SeeCanon2C "B$ andtheaccompanyingComment. #% B.AVOCATIONALACTIVITIES. 'F#*   SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,ajudgemay )$, lecture,speak,teach,write,andotherwiseparticipateinother N+&. extrajudicialactivitiesconcerningtheadministrationof ,J(0 justice,thelegalsystem,improvementofthelaw,andnonlegal  matters. \ @HH'COMMENT .   Ajudgeisinauniquepositiontocontributetothe   administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,andimprovementof `  thelaw,includingtherevisionofsubstantiveandprocedurallaw 6   andimprovementofcriminalandjuvenilejustice.Astimemay  \  permit,ajudgeisencouragedtodoso,eitherindependentlyor  2  throughabarassociation,judicialconference,orother   organizationdedicatedtotheimprovementofthelaw.     Thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeis :  usedinthisandothersectionsofCanon4,primarilyin `  connectionwithajudgescharitable,civic,orgovernmental 6 activities,toremindjudgesthatuseofpermissivelanguagein   varioussectionsofthisCodedoesnotrelieveajudgefromthe  otherprovisionsofthisCodethatapplytothespecificconduct. h @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion :  Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehascautionedthat  ajudgewhoagreestospeakatapoliticalclubshouldschedule  thespeechsoasnottobepresentforpoliticaldiscussions,be l reasonablyavailabletoothergroupswithsimilarinvitations, P andnotspeakatfundraisingevents. 4  @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  "   Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehascautioned !" judgestoscheduleaspeechatapoliticalclubsoasnottobe p"# presentforpoliticaldiscussions,tobereasonablyavailableto T#$ othergroupswithsimilarinvitations,nottolectureto 8$% probationerswhomightbebroughtbackbeforethecourt,andnot %l & tospeakatfundraisingevents.  &P!'   TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehasheldthatwritingan ' #) introductionforabookwasnotusingthejudicialofficefora (#* privatebusiness. f)$+   ,(/ C.CHARITABLE,CIVIC,ANDGOVERNMENTALACTIVITIES.    (1)Exceptwhenactingproseinamatterthatinvolvesthe \ judgeorthejudgesinterests,whenactingastoamatterthat d concernstheadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,or   improvementofthelaw,orwhenactingasotherwiseallowedunder l  Canon4,ajudgeshallnotappearatapublichearingbefore,or  h  otherwiseconsultwith,anexecutiveorlegislativebodyor   official. p  @HH'COMMENT l  ̀AssuggestedintheReporter'sNotestotheABAModel  CodeofJudicialConduct(1990),the"administrationofjustice"  isnotlimitedto"mattersofjudicialadministration"butis  broadenoughtoincludeothermattersrelatingtothejudiciary. V @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  (   (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon  4A,ajudgemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmentalcommission, h committee,orposition.  0 @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  !"   (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon l#$ 4A,ajudgemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmentaladvisory 4% & commission,committee,orposition.  &L"( @HH'COMMENT )$+ ̀Ajudgemaynotacceptagovernmentalappointmentthatcould F+&- interferewiththeeffectivenessandindependenceofthe ,l'. judiciary,assumeordischargeanexecutiveorlegislativepower ,B(/ (MarylandDeclarationofRights,Article8),orholdan"office" -)0 undertheconstitutionorotherlawsoftheUnitedStatesor  StateofMaryland(MarylandDeclarationofRights,Articles33  and35). \ Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteenotesthatthe . supremacyclauseofU.S.ConstitutionArticleIVmayallow   serviceinreservecomponentsofthearmedforcesthatotherwise   mightbeprecludedunderthisCode,suchasserviceasajudge `  advocateormilitaryjudge.However,theAttorneyGeneral, 6   ratherthantheJudicialEthicsCommittee,traditionallyhas  \  renderedopinionswithregardtoissuesofdualorincompatible  2  offices.     (3)Ajudgemayrepresentthiscountry,astate,ora :  localityonceremonialoccasionsorinconnectionwithcultural, 6 educational,orhistoricalactivities.  Ѐ(4)(a)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,ajudge > maybeadirector,member,non-legaladviser,officer,ortrustee : ofacharitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,  law-related,orreligiousorganization. B @HH'COMMENT    SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseofthephrase p   subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode.Asanexampleofthe F ! meaningofthephrase,ajudgepermittedunderCanon4C(4)to !l" serveontheboardofanorganizationmaybeprohibitedfromsuch !B# serviceby,forexample,Canon2Cor4A,iftheorganization "$ practicesinvidiousdiscriminationorifserviceontheboard #% otherwisecausesasubstantialquestionastothejudges t$& capacitytoact impartially asajudgeorastoserviceasa J% ' legaladviser. .&~!( Ӏ  (b)Ajudgeshallnotbeadirector,member,nonlegal '*#* adviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationthatisconducted )$, fortheeconomicorpoliticaladvantageofitsmembers. 2+&. Ѐ(c)Ajudgeshallnotbeadirector,member,nonlegal ,.(0 adviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationifitislikely  thattheorganization: \    ` (i)willbeengagedregularlyinadversaryproceedings X inanycourt;or      ` (ii)dealswithpeoplewhoarereferredtothe `  organizationbyanycourt.  \  @HH'COMMENT   ̀Thechangingnatureofsomeorganizationsandoftheir :  relationshiptothelawmakesitnecessaryforajudgeregularly `  toreexaminetheactivitiesofeachorganizationwithwhichthe 6 judgeisaffiliatedtodeterminewhetheritispropertocontinue   arelationshipwithit.Forexample,inmanyjurisdictions,  charitableorganizationsaremorefrequentlyincourtnowthanin h thepastormakepolicydecisionsthatmayhavepolitical > significanceorimplycommitmenttocausesthatmaycomebefore d thecourtsforadjudication. :   (d)(i)Ajudgeshallnotparticipatepersonallyin: l    `  (A)solicitationoffundsorotherfundraising h activities,exceptthatajudgemaysolicitfundsfromother  judgesoverwhomthejudgedoesnotexerciseappellateor p  supervisoryjurisdiction;or !l"    `  (B)amembershipsolicitationthatreasonably "$ mightbeperceivedascoerciveor,exceptaspermittedinCanon t$& 4C(4)(d)(i)(A),isessentiallyafundraisingmechanism.  &p!(    ` (ii)Ajudgeshallnotparticipateasaguestofhonor '#* orspeakeratafundraisingevent. x)$,    ` (iii)ExceptasallowedbyCanon4C(4)(d),ajudge $+t&. shallnotuseorlendtheprestigeofjudicialofficeforfund , (0 raisingormembershipsolicitation.    (iv)Ajudgemay: \    ` (A)assistanorganizationinplanningfund X raising;      ` (B)participateintheinvestmentandmanagement `  ofanorganizationsfunds;and  \     ` (C)makerecommendationstoprivateandpublic   fundgrantingorganizationsonprogramsandprojectsconcerning d  theadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovement `  ofthelaw.   @HH'COMMENT >   Asadirector,member,nonlegaladviser,officer,or : trusteeofanorganizationthatisdevotedtotheadministration  ofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementofthelaworfora  notforprofitcharitable,civic,educational,fraternalor l sororal,orreligiousorganization,ajudgemaysolicit B membershipandencourageorendorsemembershipeffortsforthe h organization,aslongasthesolicitationcannotreasonablybe > perceivedascoerciveandisnotessentiallyafundraising  mechanism.Solicitationoffundsandsolicitationofmemberships  similarlyinvolvethedangerthatthepersonsolicitedwillfeel p  obligatedtorespondfavorablytothesolicitorwhoisina F ! positionofcontrolorinfluence.Ajudgemaybelistedasa !l" director,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationbutmustnot !B# engageindirect,individualsolicitationoffundsormemberships "$ inperson,bytelephone,orinwriting,forthatorganization, #% exceptinthefollowingcases:(1)ajudgemaysolicit,forfunds t$& ormemberships,otherjudgesoverwhomthejudgedoesnot J% ' exerciseappellateorsupervisoryauthority;(2)ajudgemay  &p!( solicit,formembershipinanorganizationdescribedabove,other &F") personsifneitherthosepersonsnorpersonswithwhomtheyare '#* affiliatedarelikelytoappearbeforethecourtonwhichthe (#+ judgeserves;and(3)ajudgewhoisanofficerofan x)$, organizationdescribedabovemaysendageneralmembership N*%- solicitationmailingoverthejudgessignature. $+t&.   Useofanorganizationsletterheadforfundraisingor , (0 membershipsolicitationdoesnotviolateCanon4C(4)ifthe -(1 letterheadlistsonlythejudgesnameandofficeorother  positionintheorganization.Ajudgesjudicialofficealsomay  belistedifcomparableinformationislistedforother \ individuals.Ajudgemustmakereasonableeffortstoensurethat 2 courtofficials,thejudgesstaff,andotherssubjecttothe X judgesdirectionandcontroldonotuseorrefertotheir . relationshipwiththejudgetosolicitfundsforanypurpose,   charitableorotherwise.     Althoughajudgeisnotpermittedtobeaguestofhonoror 6   speakeratafundraisingevent,Canon4doesnotprohibita  \  judgefromattendinganeventifotherwiseconsistentwiththis  2  Code.   D.FINANCIALACTIVITIES. `    (1)Ajudgeshallnotengageinbusinessorfinancial   dealingsthat: h   (a)reasonablywouldbeperceivedtoviolateCanon2B;or d   (b)involvethejudgeinfrequenttransactionsorcontinuing  businessrelationshipswithlawyersorotherpersonslikelyto l comebeforethecourtonwhichthejudgeserves. h @HH'COMMENT    Canon4D(1)(b)isnecessarytoavoidcreatinganappearance F ! ofexploitationofofficeorfavoritismandtominimizethe !l" potentialforrecusal.Ajudgealsoshoulddiscourage membersof !B# thejudgesfamily fromengagingindealingsthatreasonably "&$ wouldappeartoexploitthejudgesjudicialposition.With # % respecttoaffiliationofrelativesofthejudgewithlawfirms $& appearingbeforethejudge,seetheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(d) f% ' relatingtorecusal. <&!(   Participationbyajudgeinbusinessandfinancialdealings '8#* issubjecttothegeneralprohibitionsinCanon4Aagainst ($+ activitiesthatcauseasubstantialquestionasto impartiality , )$, demeanthejudicialoffice,orinterferewiththeproper x*%- performanceofjudicialduties.Suchparticipationalsois N+&. subjecttothegeneralprohibitioninCanon2againstactivities $,t'/ involvingimproprietyortheappearanceofimproprietyandthe ,J(0 prohibitioninCanon2Bagainstmisuseoftheprestigeof - )1 judicialoffice.Inaddition,ajudgemustmaintainhigh  standardsofconductinallofthejudgesactivities,asset  forthinCanon1.SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseof \ thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode. 2   (2)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,ajudgemay   holdandmanageinvestments,includingrealestate,andengagein `  otherremunerativeactivitiesexceptthatafull-timejudgeshall  \  notholdadirectorshiporofficeinabank,insurancecompany,   lendinginstitution,publicutility,savingsandloan d  association,orotherbusiness,enterprise,orventurethatis `  affectedwithapublicinterest.   Ѐ(3)Ajudgeshallmanageinvestmentsandotherfinancial h intereststominimizethenumberofcasesinwhichrecusalwould d berequired.Assoonaspracticablewithoutseriousfinancial  detriment,ajudgeshalldisposeofthosefinancialinterests l thatmightrequirefrequentrecusal. h   (4)Ajudgeshallneitherusenordisclose,infinancial  dealingsorforanyotherpurposenotrelatedtothejudges p  judicialduties,informationthatisacquiredinhisorher !l" judicialcapacityandthatisconfidential,privileged,or "$ otherwisenotpartofthepublicrecord. t$& Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000  &p!( oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties &F") for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment '#* officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle, (#+ 15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions x)$, governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, N*%- StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords) $+t&. andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). +J'/   (5)Ajudgeshallnotaccept,andshallurge membersofthe -(1 judgeshousehold nottoaccept,abequest,favor, gift ,orloan  fromanyoneexceptfor: x   (a)contributionstoajudgescampaignforjudicialoffice $t thatcomplywithCanon5;     (b)abook,tape,orotherresourcematerialsuppliedbya |  publisheronacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse,a gift  ( x  incidenttoapublictestimonial,oraninvitationtoajudgeand @  thejudgesspouseorguesttoattendabarrelatedfunctionor   anactivitydevotedtotheadministrationofjustice,thelegal H  system,orimprovementofthelaw; D   (c)anaward,benefit,or gift incidenttothebusiness,  profession,orotherseparateactivityofaspouseorother h  memberofthejudgeshousehold ,includinganaward,benefit,or d  gift fortheuseofboththehouseholdmemberandjudge(as , spouseorhouseholdmember),iftheaward,benefit,or gift could  notreasonablybeperceivedasintendedtoinfluencethejudgein l theperformanceofjudicialduties;  h    (d)ordinarysocialhospitality; !"   (e)a gift fromafriendorrelative,foraspecial p#$ occasion,suchasananniversary,birthday,orwedding,ifthe 8% &  gift isfairlycommensuratewiththeoccasionandthefriendship &4"( orrelationship; (#*   (f)abequest,favor, gift ,orloanfromarelativeor X*%, closepersonalfriendwhoseappearanceorinterestinacase  ,p'. wouldinanyeventrequirearecusalunderCanon3D; -)0   (g)aloanfromalendinginstitutioninitsregularcourse  ofbusinessonthesametermsgenerallyavailabletopersonswho \ arenotjudges; X   (h)afellowshiporscholarshipawardedonthesameterms   andbasedonthesamecriteriaappliedtootherapplicants;or `    (i)anyotherbequest,favor, gift ,orloanif:(1)the  \  donororlenderisnotapersonwhoseinterestshavecomeorare $  likelytocomebeforethejudgeand(2)thejudgereports,onthe   judgesfinancialdisclosureform,allbequests,favors, gifts , ,|  andloansrequiredunderRule16815tobereported. D @HH'COMMENT v   Howeverinnocentlyintended,favorsor gifts frompersons "r notinajudgesimmediatefamilymaycreateanappearancethat V thejudgecouldbeimproperlybeholdentothedonor. ,   Similarly,abequest,favor, gift ,orloantoa memberof  thejudgeshousehold mightbeviewedasintendedtoinfluence l thejudge.Therefore,ajudgemustinformthosehouseholdmembers P oftherelevantethicalconstraintsonthejudgeinthisregard &v anddiscouragethosehouseholdmembersfromviolatingthe L constraints.However,ajudgecannotreasonablybeexpectedto "   know orcontrolallofthebusinessandfinancialactivitiesof  ! all membersofthejudgeshousehold . !"   Canon4D(5)(b)and(i)governs,respectively,acceptanceof F#$ aninvitationtoalawrelatedfunctionandofaninvitationpaid $l% forbyanindividuallawyerorgroupoflawyers. $B &   Ajudgemayacceptapublictestimonial,ora gift incident &!( thereto,onlyifthedonorisnotanorganizationwhosemembers '") compriseorfrequentlyrepresentthesamesideinlitigation,and X(#* thetestimonialor gift complieswithotherprovisionsofthis .)~$+ Code.XXXXSee#XXXXB0#ԀCanons2Band4A(1). *b%,   A gift thatismadetoajudge,ora memberofthejudges +'. household ,andisexcessiveinvalueraisesquestionsaboutthe ,'/ judges impartiality andtheintegrityofthejudicialofficeand -(0 mightrequirerecusalofthejudge.See,however,Canon4D  (5)(f).  E. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES. .   (1)(a)ExceptasprovidedinCanon4E(1)andthenonly   subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeandstatutes,ajudge R   shallnotserveasa fiduciary .  N    (b)Ajudgemayserveasa fiduciary fora memberofthe   judgesfamily .   Ѐ(c)Ajudgewhohasservedasatrusteeofatrustsince V December31,1969,maycontinuetodosoasallowedbylaw. R   (2)Ajudgeshallnotagreetoserveasa fiduciary ifitis  likelythat,asa fiduciary ,thejudgewillbeengagedin v proceedingsthatordinarilywouldcomebeforethejudgeorifthe > estate,trust,orwardbecomesinvolvedinadversaryproceedings : inthecourtonwhichthejudgeservesorinacourtunderthe  appellatejurisdictionofthecourtonwhichthejudgeserves. B   (3)Therestrictionsthatapplytopersonalfinancial  >! activitiesofajudgealsoapplytothejudges fiduciary  "# financialactivities. b$% @HH'COMMENT &^!'   TheTimeforComplianceprovisionofthisCode(Canon6D) ' #) postponesthetimeforcompliancewithcertainprovisionsof (#* Canon4Einsomecases. f)$+ Committeenote:Code,EstatesandTrustsArticle,5105(b)(5) +b&- and14104prohibitajudgefromservingasapersonal +8'. representativeortrusteeforsomeonewhoisnotaspouseor ,(/ withinthe thirddegreeofrelationship (althoughajudgeserving -(0 astrusteeasof12/31/69isallowedtocontinueinthat  capacity).Neitherthe1987MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct  noranyotherMarylandlawexplicitlyprohibitsajudgefrom \ servingasanyothertypeof fiduciary foranyone. 2    `     h      p      x F.SERVICEASARBITRATORORMEDIATOR.     Ajudgeshallnotactasanarbitratorormediatoror D   otherwiseperformjudicialfunctionsinaprivatecapacityunless  @  expresslyauthorizedbylaw.   @HH'COMMENT n  ̀Canon4Fdoesnotprecludeajudgefromparticipatingin  settlementconferences.Ifbyreasonofdisclosuremadeduring  orasaresultofaconference,ajudge's impartiality might v reasonablybequestioned,thejudgeshouldnotparticipateinthe Z matterfurther.SeeCanon3D(1). 0 G.PRACTICEOFLAW.    (1)ExceptasallowedbyCanon4G,ajudgeshallnot 4 practicelaw.Notwithstandingthisprohibition,ajudgemayact 0 proseinamatterinvolvingthejudgeorthejudgesinterest   and,ifwithoutcompensation,maygivelegaladvicetoanddraft D!" orreviewdocumentsfora memberofthejudgesfamily .  "@$   (2)(a)Totheextentexpresslyallowedbylawandsubject $ & tootherapplicableprovisionsofthisCode,aparttimejudgeof d&!( anorphanscourtmaypracticelaw. (`#* Crossreference:SeeCode,EstatesandTrustsArticle,2109 ) %, forrestrictionsonthepracticeoflawbyaparttimejudgeof *%- anorphanscourt. h+&.    ` (b)Ajudgeofanorphanscourtshallavoidconduct -d(0 wherebythejudgeusesorseemstousethejudicialofficeto  furthersuccessinthepracticeoflaw. \    ` (c)Ajudgeofanorphanscourtshallnotpractice, X orappearasanindividualinamatterinvolvingthejudgeorthe   judgesinterest,inthecourtonwhichthejudgeserves,even `  whenanotherjudgeispresiding.  \  @HH'COMMENT     Canon4G(1)limitsthepracticeoflawinarepresentative :  capacitybutnotinaprosecapacity.Ajudgemayactfor `  himselforherselfinalllegalmatters,includingmatters < involvinglitigationandmattersinvolvingappearancesbeforeor  otherdealingswithlegislativeandothergovernmentalbodies.  However,insodoing,ajudgemustnotabusetheprestigeof n officeforanyreason,includingadvancementofaninterestof D thejudgeorthejudgesfamily.SeeCanons2Band4C(1). j   ThisCodeallowsajudgetogivelegaladviceto,anddraft  legaldocumentsfor,a memberofthejudgesfamily .However,  exceptforaparttimeorphanscourtjudgeallowedtopractice  law,ajudgemustnotreceiveanycompensationfrom,oractasan V advocateornegotiatorfor,a memberofthejudgesfamily ina ,| legalmatter. ` H.COMPENSATIONANDREIMBURSEMENT. h !   Unlessotherwiseprohibitedbylaw,ajudgemayreceive "d# compensationandreimbursementofexpensesforextrajudicial #% activitiespermittedbythisCodeif: l% '   (1)thesourceofcompensationorreimbursementdoesnot 'h") givetheappearanceofimpropriety; ($+   (2)thecompensationdoesnotexceedareasonableamount p*%- anddoesnotexceedtheamountapersonwhoisnotajudge ,l'/ ordinarilywouldreceiveforthesameactivity;and -)1   (3)theexpensereimbursementislimitedtotheactualcost  offood,lodging,andtravelreasonablyincurredbyajudgeand, \ ifappropriatetotheoccasion,bythejudgesspouseorguest. X @HH'COMMENT     Acceptanceofan  honorarium ,asdefinedinCode,State 6   GovernmentArticle,15102(r),isgovernedbyCode,State  j  GovernmentArticle,15505.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.128  @  (issuedFebruary2,2000).     Ajudgemustdisclosefinancialmatterssuchasdebtsor r  income,investments,orotherassets,onlytotheextentrequired H  byCanon4H,byCanon3DorE,orbylaw.SeeCode,State n  GovernmentArticle,15610. D   "r @HH'CANON5  @!PoliticalActivity \ A.POLITICALCONDUCTOFJUDGEWHOISNOTCANDIDATE.     (1)Ajudgewhoisnotacandidateforelectionor `  re-electiontoorretentioninajudicialofficeshallnotengage  \  inanypartisanpoliticalactivity.    (83! !  (2) ` (a)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon5A(2)(b),a d  judgeshallresignwhenthejudgebecomesacandidatefora `  non-judicialoffice.      ` (b)Ajudgemaycontinuetoholdjudicialofficewhile h acandidateforelectionto,ordelegatein,aMaryland d constitutionalconvention.  Committeenote:Canon5A(2)oftheModelCodeofJudicial l ConductadoptedbytheAmericanBarAssociationin2000allowsa B judgetoserveasastateconstitutionalconventiondelegateif h allowedbylaw.Suchadelegatedoesnotholdan"office,which > MarylandDeclarationofRights,Article33wouldprohibitajudge  fromholding.SeeBoardv.AttorneyGeneral,246Md.417(1967).  B.POLITICALCONDUCTOFJUDGEWHOISCANDIDATE. !H#   (1)Ajudgewhoisacandidateforelectionorre-election #% toorretentioninajudicialofficemayengageinpartisan P% ' politicalactivityallowedbylawwithrespecttosuchcandidacy, &L") exceptthatthejudge: (#+    ` (a)shallmaintainthedignityappropriatetojudicial T*%- officeandactinamannerconsistentwiththe impartiality , ,P'/ independence,andintegrityofthejudiciary; -)1    ` (b)shallnotactasaleaderorholdanofficeina   politicalorganization ; \    ` (c)shallnotmakeaspeechforacandidateor $t  politicalorganization orpubliclyendorseacandidatefor   non-judicialoffice;   @HH'COMMENT D     Ajudgedoesnotpubliclyendorseacandidateforpublic @  officebyhavingthejudgesnameonthesameticket.      ` (d)withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethat H  islikelytocomebeforethecourt,shallnotmakeacommitment, D pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththe impartial   performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice; h @HH'COMMENT :   Canon5B(1)(d)doesnotprohibitacandidatefrommakinga  commitment,pledge,orpromiserespectingimprovementsincourt l administrationorthefaithfuland impartial performanceofthe B dutiesoftheoffice.  &v    ` (e)shallnot knowingly misrepresenthisorher  ! identityorqualifications,theidentityorqualificationsofan p"# opponent,oranyotherfact;and $l%    ` (f)shallnotallowanyotherpersontodoforthe %!' judgewhatthejudgeisprohibitedfromdoing. t'")   (2)Acandidateforajudicialofficemayrespondtoa  )p$+ personalattackoranattackonthecandidatesrecordaslongas *&- theresponsedoesnotviolateCanon5B(1). x,'/  $.t)1 Committeenote:Canon5A(1)(b)oftheModelCodeofJudicial  ConductadoptedbytheAmericanBarAssociationin2000( ABA  Code(2000))probablyisbroadenougheventoprohibitajudge \ fromendorsinganotherjudgewhoisalsoacandidate,public 2 endorsementbyonejudicialcandidateofanotherjudicial X candidatehaslongbeenpermittedinMaryland.SeeMaryland . JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.20(issued4/25/74).     ABACode(2000),Canon5A(1)(d),whichbarsattendanceofa `  judgecandidateatpoliticalgatherings,isomittedasnot 6   consistentwithMarylandJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.63(issued  \  5/8/78),whichrecognizedthat anypotentialopponents...would  2  clearlytakeadvantageofthistypeofexposure[and]...itis   neitherdesirablenornecessarythatyou,asacandidatefor   election,bedeniedsimilaropportunity. d    ABACode(2000),Canon5A(1)(e)andC(2)prohibitsajudge `  frompersonallysolicitingoracceptingcampaignfundsor 6 personallysolicitingpubliclystatedsupport;however,ajudge   mayestablish committeesofresponsiblepersonstodothese  thingsforthejudge.TheJudicialEthicsandtheRules h Committeebelievethatthisprohibitionmaybetoorestrictive, > sinceitputsajudgeatapoliticaldisadvantagetoactive d opposition.Marylandlawdoesrequireallcampaignfundstobe : publiclyreportedbythecampaigntreasurer.    TheJudicialEthicsandtheRulesCommitteedisagreewith l thepropositioninABACode(2000),Canon5A(3)(a)XXXX,#XXXXh#Ԁwhichstates B thatfamilymembersofajudgeshouldadheretothesame h standardsofpoliticalconductasajudgewhoisacandidatefor > judicialoffice.TheCommitteesbelievethatfamilymembers  shouldbefreetoengage,intheirownright,inpolitical  activitythatisnotrelatedtothejudgesoffice. p    ABACode(2000),Canon5A(3)(b)requiresthatajudge !l" prohibitpublicofficialsandemployeessubjecttothejudge's !B# directionandcontrolfromdoingforthejudgewhatthejudgeis "$ prohibitedfromdoing.TheCommitteesbelievethatthisis #% redundantandmayevenimplythatajudgemustterminatethe t$& employmentofanindividualwhodoesnotfollowthejudge's J% ' admonitions!aresultthatmaybeunreasonableunderthe  &p!( circumstances. &F") C.STATUSOFJUDGEORLAWYERASCANDIDATE. N*%-   Candidateappliestoanindividualseekingtobeelected +J'/ toortoretainajudicialoffice: -(1 Ѐ(1)astoanewlyappointedjudge,fromthedateoftaking  theoathofofficeuntilthegeneralelectionpertainingtothat \ judge'selectionorinitialretention; X Ѐ(2)astoanyotherincumbentjudge,fromtheearlierof:      ` (a)thedatetwoyearspriortothegeneralelection `  pertainingtothatjudge'sre-electionorsubsequentretention;  \  or      ` (b)thedateonwhichanewlyappointedjudgetothat d  courtbecomesa"candidate"inthesamegeneralelection; `    (3)astoajudgewhoisseekingelectiontoanother   judicialoffice,theearlierof: h    ` (a)thedateonwhichthejudgefilesacertificateof d candidacyinaccordancewithMarylandelectionlaws,butno  earlierthantwoyearspriortothegeneralelectionforthat l office;or h    ` (b)thedateonwhichanewlyappointedjudgetothat  courtbecomesa"candidate"inthesamegeneralelection;and p    (4)astoalawyerwhoisseekingajudicialoffice,the !l" dateonwhichthelawyerfilesacertificateofcandidacyin "$ accordancewithMarylandelectionlaws,butnoearlierthantwo t$& yearspriortothegeneralelectionfortheoffice.  &p!( Committeenote:MarylandJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.14(issued '#* 5/23/74)allowsajudgetobegincampaigningasacandidate (#+ immediatelyuponassumptionofoffice.Thelongestpossible x)$, campaignperiodwouldbeonedaylessthanthreeyears.See N*%- MarylandConstitution,ArticleIV,5.MarylandJudicialEthics $+t&. OpinionNo.34(issued7/7/75),whichhadallowedanincumbent +J'/ judgetocampaignforre-electiononlyfromJanuary1oftheyear , (0 oftheelection,wasfoundtobetoorestrictive,soMaryland -(1 JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.57(issued11/28/77)changedthe  periodto"timeswhicharereasonableundertheparticular  circumstancesofeachcase."TheJudicialEthicsCommittee \ believedthatthelatterstandardwastoovague,andtheCourtof 2 Appealspermittedanincumbentjudgetocampaignassoonasthe X precedinggeneralelectionended,whichisatwo-yearperiod,or . earlierifanewlyappointedjudge,whowillbearunningmateof   theincumbentjudge,alreadyhasbecomeacandidate.     Ajudgeshouldbepermittedtoengageinpoliticalactivity 6   regardingthejudge'scandidacyforjudicialofficeonlyifthe  \  judge'sintentiontopursuethatcandidacyisclear.An  2  incumbentjudge'scandidacyforelectionorre-electionisfairly   obvious,butajudge'sintentiontoseekanotherjudicialoffice   isnotasclear;therefore,thefilingofacertificateof d  candidacyisrequiredinthelattersituation. :  D.APPLICABILITY;DISCIPLINE.    AcandidatewhoisajudgeshallcomplywithCanon5.A > candidatewhoisalawyershallcomplywithRule8.2ofthe : MarylandRulesofProfessionalConduct.Asuccessfulcandidate  andajudgewhounsuccessfullysoughtadifferentjudicialoffice B aresubjecttojudicialdisciplineforcampaignconduct.An > unsuccessfulcandidatewhoisalawyerissubjecttoattorney  disciplineforcampaignconduct. F ! Crossreference:SeeRules16802through16810concerning !B# judicialdisciplineandRules16701through16781concerning "$ attorneydiscipline. #%   '#* @&CANON6  ЀCompliance \ A.ThisCodeappliestoeachjudgeoftheCourtofAppeals,the   CourtofSpecialAppeals,acircuitcourt,theDistrictCourt,or `  anorphans'court.  \  B.ViolationofanyoftheCanonsbyajudgemayberegardedas d  conductprejudicialtotheproperadministrationofjustice `  withinthemeaningofMarylandRule16-803(j),astothe   CommissiononJudicialDisabilities. h Committeenote:Whetheraviolationisorisnotprejudicial : conductistobedeterminedbytheCourtofAppealsofMaryland.  MarylandConstitution,ArticleIV,4BgivesthatCourtthe  authoritytodisciplineanyjudgeuponrecommendationofthe l CommissiononJudicialDisabilities.Thisdisciplinarypoweris B alternativetoandcumulativewiththeimpeachmentauthorityof h theGeneralAssembly. > C.ThisCode,otherthanCanon4C(Charitable,Civic,and p  GovernmentalActivities),D(2)(FinancialActivities),E !l" ( Fiduciary Activities),andF(ServiceasArbitratoror "$ Mediator),appliestoeachjudgeofoneofthosecourtswhois $& approvedforrecallfortemporaryserviceunderMaryland <&!( Constitution,ArticleIV,3A. '8#* D.AnindividualtowhomthisCodebecomesapplicableshall @+&. complyimmediatelywithallprovisionsofthisCodeexcept:Canon ,<(0 2C(AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety),  Canon4D(2)(FinancialActivities),andCanon4E( Fiduciary  \ Activities).TheindividualshallcomplywithCanons2Cand4D $t (2)andEassoonasreasonablypossible,andshalldosoinany   eventastoCanon2CwithintwoyearsandastoCanon4D(2)and |  Ewithinoneyear. ( x  Source:ThisRuleisderivedinpartfromformerRule1231,   MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct,adoptedbyRulesOrderdated   November21,1986,effectiveJuly1,1987,asamendedfromtime V  totime(renumberedRule16813byRulesOrderdatedJanuary18, ,|  1996,effectiveJuly1,1996andhereinafterreferredtoas R  MarylandCode(1987))andisinpartnew,patternedforthe ( mostpartontheModelCodeofJudicialConductadoptedbythe  AmericanBarAssociationin2000(hereinafterreferredtoas ABA  Code(2000)),withamendmentsinAugust2003(hereinafter Z referredtoas ABACode(2000,amended2003)"),asfollows: 0  Preamble  ,   ThePreambleisderivedfromthePreambletoABACode  (2000),withtheadditionofthelastparagraph. l  Terminology  h   Thedefinitionof fiduciaryisderivedfromasimilar " definitionintheABACode(2000)Terminologysection,withthe   additionofthereferencestoan attorneyinfactand personal ~ ! representative.Inlightoftheadditionofthisdefinition, T!" thedefinitionof fiduciaryinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C *"z# (3)(b)forthelimitedpurposeofthatCanonisomitted. #P$   Thedefinitionof giftisaddedtoreferenceCode,State $& GovernmentArticle,15102(p),which,forpurposesof % ' provisionsoftheMarylandPublicEthicsLawapplicabletointer X&!( aliajudgesasofthedatethisRulewasproposed,defined gift 4'") tomeanthetransferofanythingofeconomicvalue,regardlessof (`#* form,withoutadequateandlawfulconsideration,butnotto (6$+ includethesolicitation,acceptance,receipt,orregulationofa ) %, politicalcontributionthatisregulatedinaccordancewithCode, *%- ElectionLawArticleoranyotherStatelawregulatingthe h+&. conductofelectionsorthereceiptofpoliticalcontributions. >,'/   -:)1   Thedefinitionof honorariumisaddedtoreferenceCode,  StateGovernmentArticle , 15102(r),which,forpurposesof  provisionsoftheMarylandPublicEthicsLawapplicabletointer j aliajudgesasofthedatethisRulewasproposed,defined F  honorariumtomeanthepaymentofmoneyoranythingofvalue "r forspeakingto,participatingin,orattendingameetingor H otherfunctionorforwritinganarticlethathasbeenoris   intendedtobepublishedbutnottoincludepaymentforwritinga   bookthathasbeenorisintendedtobepublished. z    Thedefinitionof impartial,impartiality,orimpartially & v  isderivedfromasimilardefinitionintheABACode(2000,  L  amended2003)Terminologysection,withtheadditionof "   impartially.   @  If AlternativeAisused: *z    Thedefinitionof knowingly,knowledge,know,orknowsis B derivedfromasubstantiallysimilardefinitionintheABACode & (2000)Terminologysection.   @ If AlternativeBisused:    Thedefinitionof knowisderivedfromasubstantially J similardefinitionintheABACode(2000)Terminologysectionbut .~ restatedasaninfinitive,forsimplicityandconsistencywith b thedefinitionof require.    F   Thedefinitionof memberofthejudgesfamilyisderived  fromasubstantiallysimilardefinitionintheABACode(2000)  Terminologysection. \   Thedefinitionof memberofthejudgeshouseholdis !X! substitutedforthedefinitionof memberofthejudgesfamily !." residinginthejudgeshouseholdintheABACode(2000) "# Terminologysection,toincorporateCode,StateGovernment #$ Article,15102(z),which,forpurposesofprovisionsofthe `$% MarylandPublicEthicsLawapplicabletointeraliajudgesasof 6% & thedatethisRulewasproposed,defined memberofhouseholdto &b!' mean (1)ifsharinganindividualslegalresidence,the &8"( individuals:(i)spouse;(ii)child;(iii)ward;(iv) '#) financiallydependentparent;or(v)otherfinanciallydependent (#* relative;or(2)anindividualsspouse,child,ward,parent,or j)$+ otherrelative,overwhosefinancialaffairstheindividualhas @*%, legaloractualcontrol. +f&-   Thedefinitionof politicalorganizationisderivedfroma ,(/ substantiallysimilardefinitionintheABACode(2000) -(0 Terminologysection.    Thedefinitionof requireisderivedfromasubstantially \ similardefinitionintheABACode(2000)Terminologysection. 2 Theinfinitiveisusedtoavoidanunnecessaryandpotentially X incompletelistingofvariousformsof require. . @  If AlternativeAisused:      Thedefinitionof significantfinancialinterestis D   derivedfromthedefinitionof financialinterestsetforthin ( x  Code,StateGovernmentArticle(1984,1995ReplacementVolumeand  \  1998Supplement),15102(n)andtheexceptionsinthe @  definitionof economicinterestintheABACode(2000) $  TerminologySection.Inlightofthisdefinition,thedefinition   of financialinterestinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(3)(c)   forthelimitedpurposeofthatCanonandtheterm deminimis   intheABACode(2000)TerminologySectionareomitted. d Referencestoaproceedingbeing imminentaresubstitutedfor H theABACode(2000)referencesto impendingproceedings.  ,| @  If AlternativeBisused:    Thedefinitionof significantfinancialinterest Z incorporatesCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102(n),which, > forpurposesofprovisionsoftheMarylandPublicEthicsLaw "r applicabletointeraliajudgesasofthedateofthisRulewas V proposed,defined financialinterest.Thisdefinitionreflects < usageof significantfinancialinterestinMarylandCode   (1987).Thisdefinitionalsoincludestheexceptionsinthe  definitionof economicinterestintheABACode(2000)    TerminologySection.Inlightofthisdefinition,thedefinition |!! of financialinterestinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(3)(c) `"" forthelimitedpurposeofthatCanonandtheterm deminimis D## intheABACode(2000)TerminologySectionareomitted. ($x$    Thedefinitionof thirddegreeofrelationshipisderived %2!& fromasubstantiallysimilardefinitionintheABACode(2000) &"' Terminologysection.Inlightoftheadditionofthis '"( definition,therequirementinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C d(#) (3)(a)forcalculationofrelationshipsaccordingtothecivil :)$* lawsystembutonlyforthelimitedpurposeofthatCanonis *`%+ omitted. *6&,   TheABACode(2000)definitionsof aggregate, appropriate ,'. authority, candidate, continuingparttimejudge, court h-(/ personnel, law, memberofthecandidatesfamily, nonpublic >.)0 information, periodicparttimejudge, protemporeparttime  judge,and publicelectionareomittedasinapplicableto  Marylandorotherwiseunnecessary. \  Canon1  X   Canon1isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon1,   exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryrather   thanhortatoryinaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon1. n    Canon1isconsistentwithMarylandDeclarationofRights,  j  Article33,whichstates,inpart,that theindependencyand  @  uprightnessofJudgesareessentialtotheimpartial   administrationofJustice,andagreatsecuritytotherightsand   libertiesofthePeople. r    ABACode(2000),Canon1statesthatajudgeshould n   participateinestablishing,maintainingandenforcinghigh D standardsofconduct,andshallpersonallyobservethose  standardssothattheintegrityandindependenceofthejudiciary  willbepreserved.Althoughdesirable,ajudgeshouldnotbe v obligatedtoparticipatein establishingstandardsofconduct. L   TheCommentisnewandissubstantiallythesameasthe H CommentarytoABACode(2000,amended2003),Canon1.   Canon2  z   Canon2AisderivedfromthefirstsentenceofMarylandCode 4 (1987),Canon2A,exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedto  Z bemandatoryratherthanhortatoryinaccordancewithABACode 0 (2000,amended2003),Canon2A.    ThesecondsentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon2A,which b ! suggestedapplicationoftheCanontobothpersonaland 8!" professionallife,nowiscoveredintheCommenttoCanon2A. "^#   TheCommenttoCanon2Aisbasedonthefirstparagraphof # % theCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon2Band,withthe $& omissionofthesecondsentenceastoavoidingimproprietyand f% ' appearanceofimpropriety,ontheCommentarytoABACode(2000, <&!( amended2003),Canon2A. 'b")   Canon2BisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon2B, ($+ exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryrather )$, thanhortatoryandreferencestopoliticalrelationships,to j*%- lendingprestige,andtothejudgesbenefitareaddedin @+&. accordancewithABACode(2000),Canon2B.Additionally, ,f'/ referencestoanappearanceofimproperinfluenceandto ,<(0 employmentoffers,areadded. -)1 Ї  TheCommenttoCanon2BisbasedontheCommentarytoABA  Code(2000),Canon2B,withtheadditionofthereferencetoa   personalcommunicationandomissionofthethirdsentenceof \ thesecondparagraph,astoretainingcontroloveradvertisement 2 ofpublications,whichwasconsideredimpracticable;thesecond X sentenceofthefourthparagraph,astoCanon5withrespectto . useofajudgesnameinpoliticalactivities,andthereference,   inthatparagraph,astoresponsestoofficialinquiriesabout   judicialcandidates;andthesecondandfourthsentencesofthe `  fifthparagraph,astotheeffectoftestifyingonlawyersand 6   theneedtodiscouragerequestsforsuchtestimony.  \    Canon2CisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon2Cand   thecomparableABACode(2000),Canon2C.     TheCommenttoCanon2CisderivedfromtheCommentto :  MarylandCode(1987)andCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon2C, `  withtheadditionofthethirdandfourthsentences,derivedfrom 6 partoftheMarylandCode(1987)CommitteeNotetoCanon2C.   Additionally,thecitationstovariouscasesareomitted.   Canon3  "r   Canon3AisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(9) , andthecomparableABACode(2000),Canon3B(5),exceptasto  personsunderthedirectionandcontrolofajudge,andfromthe  referencesinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(1),thecomparable ^ ABACode(2000),Canon3C(1),theCommenttoMarylandCode 4 (1987),Canon3A(9),andtheCommentarytoABACode(2000),  Z Canon3B(5),astodiligence,impartiality,andabsenceofbias 0 andprejudice.Dutiessetforthpreviouslyaspertainingto  adjudicativeoradministrativefunctionsthatinfactpertainto   alljudicialfunctionsaresetforthinCanon3A. b !   TherequirementinABACode(2000),Canon3Athatjudicial "^# dutiestakeprecedence overall...otheractivitiesandthe "4$ descriptionof judicialdutiesasthoseprescribedby laware # % omitted. $&   TheCommenttoCanon3Aisderivedfrom,exceptasthey <&!( relatetopersonsundercontrolofajudge,theCommentto 'b") MarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(9)andCommentarytoABACode '8#* (2000),Canon3B(5),exceptthatthefirstparagraphhasbeen ($+ restatedasthefifthsentenceandthelistingofthosewhocould )$, perceivejudicialbiasisomitted. j*%-   Canon3B(1)and(2)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987), ,f'/ Canon3A(1)and(2),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenreworded ,<(0 tobemandatoryratherthanhortatory,inaccordancewithABA -)1 Code(2000),Canon3B(2).    Canon3B(3)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A \ (3),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatory 2 ratherthanhortatoryandthenewlydefinedterm requireis X substitutedfor maintain,inaccordancewithABACode(2000), . Canon3B(3).     Canon3B(4)and(5)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987), `  Canon3A(4),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobe 6   mandatoryratherthanhortatory,inaccordancewithABACode  \  (2000),Canon3B(4).TheCommenttoCanon3B(5)isderived  2  fromtheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3B(4).     Canon3B(6)(a)and(b)isderivedfromthefirstsentence d  ofMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(5),exceptthatthelanguage :  hasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryratherthanhortatory,in `  accordancewithABACode(2000),Canon3B(7).Additionally,the 6 limitations pendingbeforethejudgeand [w]hilepresiding   overaproceedingareadded.Canon3B(6)(c),(d),(f),and(g)  isderivedfromtheexceptionsinABACode(2000),Canon3B h (7)(a),(d),(c),and(e)andthesecondsentenceoftheComment > toMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(5)astoconsultationwith d otherjudgesandstaff.Canon3B(6)(e)isderivedfromthe : secondsentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(5)andthe  comparableABACode(2000),Canon3B(7)(b),withtheadditionof   reasonable.ThefirstandfourthparagraphsoftheCommentto l Canon3B(6)arederivedfromthefirstandthirdsentencesof B theCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(5)andthe h comparablefirstandfourthparagraphsoftheCommentarytoABA > Code(2000),Canon3B(7).Thesecond,third,andfifththrough  ninthparagraphsoftheCommenttoCanon3B(6)arederivedfrom  thesecond,third,andfifththroughninthparagraphsofthe p  CommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3B(7),withtheaddition, F ! inthesixthparagraph,ofareferenceto mattersofwhichthe !l" courtproperlycantakejudicialnotice. !B#   Canon3B(7)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A #% (6),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatory t$& ratherthanhortatoryandthewords efficientlyand fairly J% ' areadded,inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon3B(8).The  &p!( CommenttoCanon3B(7)isderivedfromtheCommenttoMaryland &F") Code(1987),Canon3A(6)andthecomparablesecondparagraphof '#* theCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3B(8).Thefirst (#+ paragraphoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3B(8),as x)$, tosupervisionofcasestoensurerightstobeheardwithout N*%- unnecessarycostordelayandfacilitationofsettlement,is $+t&. omitted. +J'/   -(1   Canon3B(8)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A  (7),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatory  ratherthanhortatoryandreferencetoanexpectationof \ affectinganoutcomeoffairnessisadded,inaccordancewiththe 2 firstandsecondsentencesofABACode(2000),Canon3B(9).The X fourthsentenceofABACode(2000),Canon3B(9),whichexcludes . ajudgeactingprose,isomitted.TheCommenttoCanon3B(8)   isderivedfromtheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A(7)   andthethirdsentenceoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000), f  Canon3B(9). <     Canon3B(9)andtheCommenttoCanon3B(9)arederived  8  fromABACode(2000,amended2003),Canon3B(10)andthe   CommentarytoABACode(2000,amended2003),Canon3B(10).     Canon3B(10)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A @  (8),exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatory f  ratherthanhortatory,inaccordancewithABACode(2000,amended < 2003),Canon3B(11),andhasbeenbroadenedtocover  communicationinadditiontooralcommunication,inaccordance  withtheCommenttoCanon3A.TheCommenttoCanon3B(10)is n derivedfromtheCommentarytoABACode(2000,amended2003), D Canon3B(11). j   Canon3B(11)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3A  (10)andthecomparableABACode(2000),Canon3B(6).    Canon3B(12)isderivedfromABACode(2000),Canon3B(1). H   Canon3C(1)isderivedfromtheprovisionsasto D cooperationinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(1)andthe  proscriptionagainstfavoritismandnepotisminthefirst  sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(4),exceptthatthe v  languagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryratherthanhortatory, L ! inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon3C(1)and(4).The "!r" provisionsinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(1)andABACode !H# (2000),Canon3C(1)astomaintaining professionalcompetence "$ injudicialadministrationareomitted.TheCommenttoMaryland #% Code(1987),Canon3B(1),whichdescribedtherevisionofthe z$& 1987provisionsastobiasandprejudiceandcooperation,alsois P% ' omitted. &&v!(   Canon3C(2)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B '"#* (2)andthecomparableABACode(2000),Canon3C(2).The (#+ CommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(2),whichdescribed ~)$, therevisionofthe1987provision,isomitted. T*%-   Canon3C(3)isderivedfromABACode(2000),Canon3C(3). ,P'/   -(1   Canon3C(4)isderivedfromthesecondandthirdsentences  ofMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(4),exceptthatthelanguage  hasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryratherthanhortatory,in \ accordancewiththefirstandfourthsentencesofABACode 2 (2000),Canon3C(4).Theprovisionofthefirstsentenceof X MarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(4)astoappointingqualified . personsisomitted.TheCommenttoCanon3C(4)isderivedfrom   theCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(4)andthesecond   sentenceoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3C(4).The `  firstsentenceoftheABACommentary,whichlistedexamplesof 6   appointees,isomitted.  \    ABACode(2000),Canon3C(5),whichwouldbarappointment   ofelectioncontributors,isomitted.     Canon3DisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C, :  exceptthatthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryrather `  thanhortatory,referencetobiasorprejudiceagainst apartys 6 lawyerisaddedinCanon3D(1)(a),referencetoaformerlaw   partnerasamaterialwitnessisomittedfromCanon3D(1)(b),  therequirementthatthejudgeknowofarelativespositionas h director,officer,ortrusteeisomittedinCanon3D(1)(c),and > Canon3D(1)(e)isadded,allinaccordancewithABACode(2000, d amended2003),Canon3E(1)(a)through(e)and(2). : Additionally, recuseissubstitutedfor notparticipateand   disqualify.Also,inCanon3D(1)(a), extrajudicialis  substitutedfor personal.InCanon3D(1)(c)and(2),the l newlydefinedterms memberofthejudgesfamilyand memberof B thejudgeshouseholdaresubstitutedforthenarrower h referencesinMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(1)(c)and(2)toa >  spouseand minorchildren residinginthejudgeshousehold  andinABACode(2000,amended2003),Canon3E(1)(c)and(2)to  a spouse,parentorchildwhereverresiding,oranyothermember p  ofthejudgesfamilyresidinginthejudgeshouseholdand F !  spouseandminorchildrenresidinginthejudgeshouseholdto !l" conformtotheMarylandPublicEthicsLawapplicabletointer !B# aliajudges.ABACode(2000),Canon3E(1)(e),whichprovides "$ forrecusalincasesinvolvingcampaigncontributors,isomitted. #%   TheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(b)isderivedfromtheComment V% ' toMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(1)(b).TheCommenttoCanon ,&|!( 3D(1)(c)isderivedfromthesecondparagraphoftheCommentto 'R") MarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(1)(c).Thefirstparagraph, '(#* whichsetforthastatutorydefinitionof significantfinancial (#+ interest,isomittedasunnecessaryinlightoftheTerminology )$, section.ABACode(2000),Canon3D(1)(c)requiresrecusalif Z*%- anybutademinimiseconomicinterestispresent.Useof 0+&.  significantfinancialinterestreflectsthedecisionofthe  ,\'/ CourtofAppeals,inthe1987revision,thatdeminimisfinancial ,2(0 interestsshouldnotrequirerecusalautomatically. [Ifthe -)1 definitionof significantfinancialinterestintheTerminology  sectionis AlternativeB,addthefollowingsentence:Asa  result,thedefinitionof financialinterestprovidedinthe x MarylandPublicEthicsLaw,Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15 \ 102(n),asamendedfromtimetotime,isused,ratherthanthe @ 1987definition.]  $ t   TheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(d)(ii)isderivedfromthe  . CommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3C(1)(d)(ii).     TheCommenttoCanon3D(2)isderivedfromtheCommentary `   totheintroductorylanguageofABACode(2000,amended2003), 6  Canon3E(1),exceptthesecondsentenceastoemployment  \  negotiation,whichnowiscoveredbyCanon2B. 2    Canon3EisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3D,   withthesubstitutionof outofthepresenceofthejudgefor d   independentlyofthejudgesparticipationandtheadditionof : arequirementthatanagreementbeontherecordtoconformto ` ABACode(2000),Canon3F.TheCommenttoCanon3Eis 6 substitutedfortheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3D,   whichallowedagreementbyaprosepartyforajudges  participation,toensureanindependentdecisionwhileallowinga n judgetoremindpartiesthatanonrecusalagreementis D permissible. j   Canon3F(1)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B  (3),withtheomissionofthephrase ofwhichthejudgemaybe  aware.Canon3F(2)and(3)isderivedfromthesecond r sentencesofABACode(2000),Canon3D(1)and(2),withthe H additionofthequalifier [i]fothercorrectivemeasuresarenot n appropriateor,ifattempted,werenotsuccessful.Thefirst D sentencesofABACode(2000),Canon3D(1)and(2),whichexhort   ajudgetotakeappropriateactionbasedona likelihoodofa  ! violation,areomitted.Canon3F(4)isderivedfromABACode v!" (2000),Canon3D(3).ThefirstsentenceoftheCommenttoCanon L"# 3Fisadded,whilethesecondsentenceisderivedfromthe "#r$ CommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon3D(3).Thethirdsentence #H% isderivedfromtheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon3B(3). $ &  Canon4  ^'")   Canon4Aisderivedfromtheintroductorylanguageof )h$+ MarylandCode(1987),Canon4,butrewordedtostateadutyin )>%, themannerofconductinganextrajudicialactivity,in *&- accordancewithABACode(2000),Canon4A.InCanon4A(1), +&. referenceto caus[ing]asubstantialquestionissubstituted p,'/ for castreasonabledoubt.ThefirstparagraphoftheComment F-(0 toCanon4AisderivedfromtheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987), .l)1 Canon4AandthecomparableparagraphintheCommentarytoABA  Code(2000),Canon4A.Thefirstsentenceofthesecond  paragraphoftheCommenttoCanon4Aisaddedtohighlightthe \ purposeoftheexamplesinthesecondthroughfourthsentences, 2 whicharederivedfromthesecondparagraphoftheCommentaryto X ABACode(2000),Canon4A. .   Canon4BisderivedfromthefirsttwosentencesofMaryland `  Code(1987),Canon4A,withadditionofthequalifier [s]ubject 6   tootherprovisionsofthisCode,inaccordancewithABACode  \  (2000),Canon4B.Also, improvementofisaddedtomodify the  2  law,toconformtotheCommenttoCanon4B.Thesecondsentence   ofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4A,whichexpresslyallowed   recreationalandsocialactivities,isomitted.TheCommentto d  Canon4BisderivedfromthesecondparagraphoftheCommentto :  MarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(1)andthefirst,second,and `  fourthsentencesoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4B. 6 ThethirdsentenceoftheABACommentary,whichenablesjudgesto   participateinpromotingfairadministrationofjustice,judicial  independence,andtheintegrityofthelegalprofessionandto h opposepersecutioninothercountries,isomitted. >   Canon4C(1)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4B : (1),but,inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon4C(1),is  rewordedtobarappearanceexceptinspecifiedinstancessuchas  theproseexceptioninMarylandCode(1987),Canon4B(3), l which,accordingly,isomitted.Also, improvementofisadded H tomodify thelaw,toconformtotheCommenttoCanon4B.The n CommenttoCanon4C(1)isderivedfromtheCommenttoMaryland D Code(1987),Canon4B(1)andrendersunnecessarytheMaryland  Code(1987),Canon4B(1)referencetomattersconcerning the  judiciary.TheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4B(1), v  crossreferencingCanon2B,isomitted. L !   Canon4C(2)isderivedfromtheprovisionofMarylandCode !H# (1987),Canon4B(2)astoservingonagovernmentaladvisory "$ bodyandthesimilar,firstsentenceofABACode(2000),Canon4B #% (2),butisrestatedtoallowacceptanceofanappointmentto z$&  [ALTERNATIVEAA; ALTERNATIVEB!ANADVISORY] governmental P% ' commission,committee,orpositioninadditiontothosedevoted 4&!( totheadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,or  'Z") improvementofthelaw.TheCommenttoCanon4C(2)isderived '0#* fromthethirdandfourthsentencesoftheCommenttoMaryland ($+ Code(1987),Canon4B(2)andthethirdsentenceofthe )$, CommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4C(2).Thesecondand b*%- thirdsentencesoftheMarylandCode(1987)Commentandthe 8+&. comparablesentencesintheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon ,^'/ 4C(2),whichreferencedthevaluableservicerenderedinthe ,4(0 pastandthedemandsoftodaysdocketsandcontroversies,are - )1 omitted.ThesecondparagraphoftheABACommentary,which  disclaimedeffectonnongovernmentalservice,alsoisomitted.    Canon4C(3)isderivedfromtheprovisionofMarylandCode 2 (1987),Canon4B(2)astoceremonialoccasionsandthe X comparablesecondsentenceofABACode(2000),Canon4C(2). .   Canon4C(4)(a)and(b)isderivedfromtheintroductory   languageofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4CandthecomparableABA `  Code(2000),Canon4C(3),exceptasitrelatedtogovernmental 6   service.TheCommenttoCanon4C(4)(a)isderivedfromthe  \  secondparagraphoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4C  2  (3).ThefirstandthirdparagraphsoftheCommentarytoABA   Code(2000),Canon4C(3),astogovernmentalserviceandother   potentiallyapplicableCodeprovisions,areomitted.Canon4C d  (4)(c)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(1)(b)and :  (c)andthecomparableABACode(2000),Canon4C(3)(a),withthe `  omissionofthelanguage willbeengagedinproceedingsthat 6 wouldordinarilycomebeforethejudgeandthesubstitutionof   thereferenceto anycourtforlimitedreferencestocourtson  whichthejudgeservesorhasappellatejurisdiction,tobroaden h thelimitationonthejudgesservicetosuchorganizations. > TheCommenttoCanon4C(4)(c)isderivedfromthefirst d paragraphoftheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(1) : andthecomparableCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4C  (3)(a).    Canon4C(4)(d)(i)(A)isderivedfromthefirstclauseof B thefirstsentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(2),except h astouseofprestige,withtheadditionoftheexceptionfor > solicitationfromcertainotherjudges,inaccordancewithABA  Code(2000),Canon4C(3)(b)(i).Thesecondclauseofthefirst  sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(2),astolistingon p  letterhead,isomittedfromtheCanonbutdiscussionofsuch F ! usageisaddedtotheCommenttoCanon4C(4)(d).Canon4C !l" (4)(d)(i)(B)isderivedfromABACode(2000),Canon4C !B# (3)(B)(iii).Canon4C(4)(d)(ii)isderivedfromthethird "$ sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(2),exceptasto #% attendance.Canon4C(4)(d)(iii)isderivedfromthefirst t$& sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(2),asitrelatedto J% ' useofprestige,withtheadditionofthereferenceto  &p!(  membershipsolicitation,inaccordancewithABACode(2000), &F") Canon4C(3)(b)(iv).Canon4C(4)(d)(iv)(A)and(B)isderived '#* fromABACode(2000),Canon4C(3)(b)(i),exceptastopersonal (#+ solicitation.Canon4C(4)(d)(iv)(C)isderivedfromthesecond x)$, sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4C(2)andthecomparable N*%- ABACode(2000),Canon4C(3)(b)(ii).Thewords improvementof $+t&. areaddedtomodify thelaw,toconformtotheCommenttoCanon +J'/ 4B.TheCommenttoCanon4C(4)(d)isderivedfromthe , (0 CommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4C(3)(b),withtheaddition -(1 oftheprovisionastolistingasadirector,officer,or  trustee.    Canon4D(1)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4D 2 (1),butthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryrather X thanhortatory,inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon4D(1). . Referenceto Canon2Bissubstitutedforthereferencesto    us[ing]thejudgespositionandbeing reasonably...   perceivedtoexploitthejudgesjudicialposition.TheComment `  toCanon4D(1)isderivedfromthethirdandfourthparagraphs 6   oftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4D(1).Thefirst  \  twoparagraphsoftheABACommentary,astotimeforcompliance  2  anduseofconfidentialinformation,areomitted.     Canon4D(2)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4D d  (2),withtheadditionofthephrase subjecttootherprovisions :  ofthisCode,inaccordancewiththesimilarABACode(2000), `  Canon4D(2).TheABACodeprovision,however,includes 6 investmentholdingsofamemberofthejudgesfamily,whichis   notincludedinCanon4D(2).Accordingly,theCommentarytoABA  Code(2000),Canon4D(2)isomitted.Additionally,theABACode h provisiondoesnotcontaintheexemptionscontainedinthe1987 > MarylandprovisionandcarriedforwardinCanon4D(2).ABACode d (2000),Canon4D(3)andtheCommentary,astobusinessentities : otherthancertainfamilyownedbusinesses,isomitted.Canon4D  (3)and(4)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4D(3)and  (4),butthelanguagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryrather l thanhortatory,inaccordancewithABACode(2000,amended2003), B Canons4D(4)and3B(12),withadditionofthequalifier h  confidential,privileged,orotherwisenotpartofthepublic > record.Thecrossreferencestorulesandstatutoryprovisions  governingaccesstocourtrecordsandconfidentialityareadded.    TheintroductorylanguageofCanon4D(5)isderivedfrom F ! thethirdsentenceofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4F(1),but !l" rewordedtobaracceptanceabsentanexception,inaccordance !B# withtheintroductorylanguageofABACode(2000),Canon4D(5). "$ Canon4D(5)(a)isderivedfromthefirstsentenceoftheComment #% toMarylandCode(1987),Canon4F(2)andCommentarytoABACode t$& (2000),Canon4D(5).Canon4D(5)(b)isderivedfromMaryland J% ' Code(1987),Canon4F(1)(a),rewordedtobaracceptance,with  &p!( theadditionofreferencestoa tapeorotherresourcematerial &F") and aninvitationto...abarrelatedfunctionoranactivity '#* devotedto...improvementofthelaw,inaccordancewithABA (#+ Code(2000),Canon4D(5)(a).Therefore,thesecondparagraphof x)$, theCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon4F(2),asto N*%- invitations,isomitted.Canon4D(5)(c)and(i)isderivedfrom $+t&. ABACode(2000),Canon4D(5)(b)and(h).Canon4D(5)(d) +J'/ through(h)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4F(1)(b) , (0 through(d),(f),and(e),respectively,andthecomparableABA -(1 Code(2000),Canon4D(5)(c)through(g).InCanon4D(5)(f),   bequesthasbeenaddedinaccordancewithABACode(2000),  Canon4D(5)(e),buttheword recusalhasbeenretainedfrom \ the1987MarylandCode,insteadof disqualification.InCanon 2 4D(5)(h),referenceto thesamecriteriaappliedtoother X applicantsisadded,inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon . 4D(5)(g).MarylandCode(1987),Canon4F(2),whichascribes   favors,gifts,andloanstoahouseholdmembertothejudge,is   omitted. `    ThefirstparagraphoftheCommenttoCanon4D(5)is  \  derivedfromthefirsttwosentencesofMarylandCode(1987),  2  Canon4F(1).ThesecondparagraphoftheCommenttoCanon4D   (5)isderivedfromthesecondparagraphoftheCommentarytothe   introductorylanguageofABACode(2000),Canon4D(5),with d  substitutionof householdmemberfor familymemberto :  correspondwithuseofthenewlydefinedterm memberofthe `  judgeshouseholdanddeletionof familywhereitmodifiedthe 6 definedterm.ThethirdandfourthparagraphsoftheCommentto   Canon4D(5)arederivedfromtheCommentarytoABACode(2000),  Canon4D(5)(a).ThefifthparagraphoftheCommenttoCanon4D h (5)isderivedfromtheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4D > (5)(d),buttheword recusalissubstitutedfor disqualifi d cation. :   Canon4E(1)and(3)isderivedfromthefirstthroughthird  andfifthsentencesofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4G,butthe l languagehasbeenrewordedtobemandatoryratherthanhortatory, B andthenewlydefinedterms fiduciaryand memberofthe h judgesfamilyaresubstitutedforthereferencesto personal > representative(executororadministrator)orspecial  administratoroftheestateofadescendant,...trusteeofa  trust,...custodian,...guardian,or...attorneyinfactand p   spouse,...survivingspouseor...relatedwithinthethird F ! degree(accordingtothecivillawsystem),inaccordancewith !l" ABACode(2000),Canon4E(1)and(3).Accordingly,thefourth !B# sentenceofMarylandCode(1987),whichallowedajudge,in "$  extraordinarycases,toserveasattorneyinfactorguardian #% fora personwithwhomthejudgemaintainsaclosefamilial t$& relationship,isomitted.Canon4E(2)isderivedfromABACode J% ' (2000),Canon4E(2).TheCommenttoCanon4Eisderivedfrom  &p!( thefirstparagraphoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon &F") 4E.TheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon4Eandthe '#* comparablesecondparagraphoftheABACommentary,asto (#+ potentialconflicts,areomitted.  x)$, ̀  Canon4FisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4H, $+t&. withtheadditionofthereferencetounauthorizedperformanceof +J'/  judicialfunctionsinaprivatecapacity,inaccordancewith , (0 ABACode(2000),Canon4F.TheCommenttoCanon4Fisderived -(1 fromtheCommenttoMarylandCode(1987),Canon4Fandthefirst  sentenceoftheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4F.    ThefirstsentenceofCanon4G(1)isderivedfromMaryland 2 Code(1987),Canon4I(1)(a)andthefirstsentenceofABACode X (2000),Canon4G.ThesecondsentenceofCanon4G(1)isderived . fromthesecondsentenceofABACode(2000),Canon4G.Canon4G   (2)isderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon4I(1)(b).   MarylandCode(1987),Canon4I(2)through(4),whichprovided `  forreviewofthedurationofanagreementinconnectionwitha 6   priorlawpractice,isomittedastoonarrow.TheCommentto  \  Canon4GisderivedfromtheCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon  2  4G,withtheadditionofthereferencetoanorphanscourt   judge.     Canon4HisderivedfromthefirstsentenceofMarylandCode :  (1987),Canon4E,withtheadditionof extrajudicial,the `  limitationonthesourceofcompensation,andthereferencetoa 6 judges guest,inaccordancewithABACode(2000),Canon4H,   andwithadditionofthecautionary [u]nlessotherwise  prohibitedbylaw.TheCommenttoCanon4Hissubstitutedfor h theCommentarytoABACode(2000),Canon4H.Code,State > GovernmentArticle,15102(r)governsacceptanceofan d  honorariuminMaryland,asdelineatedinthereferenced : JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.128(issuedFebruary2,2000),   LimitationsonHonoraria.ThesecondparagraphoftheComment  issimilartoABACode(2000),Canon4H(2)andI.Thesentences l ofMarylandCode(1987),Canon4EandABACode(2000),Canon4H B declaringallelsetobecompensationareomitted. h  Canon5     Canon5A,B(1)(a)through(c)and(f),andCisderived T ! fromMarylandCode(1987),Canon5,butthelanguageisreworded *!z" asmandatory,ratherthanhortatory,referencetoacting ina "P# mannerconsistentwiththeimpartiality,independence,and "&$ integrityofthejudiciaryisadded,andCanon5B(1)(d)is #% substitutedforthe1987Marylandprovisionlimitingspeechtoa $& pledgeof faithfulandimpartialperformanceofduties,in X% ' accordancewithABACode(2000,amended2003),Canon5A(1)(a) .&~!( through(c),(2),(3)(a)inpart,and(c)through(e). 'T")   Languagebarringannouncementbyajudgeastoviewson ($+ cases,controversies,orissueslikelytocomebeforethejudge )$, hasbeenomittedinlightofRepublicanPartyofMinnesotav. \*%- White,536U.S.765,122S.Ct.2528(2002).Accordingly,Canon 8+&. 5Chasbeenmodifiedtoincludethestatusoflawyersas ,d'/ candidates. ,:(0  -)1   Canon5DisderivedinpartfromABACode(2000),Canon5E  exceptthefirstsentence.TheprovisionsofCanon5thatare  applicabletolawyerswhoarecandidatesforjudicialofficeare \ includedinRule8.2oftheMaryland[Lawyers]Rulesof 2 ProfessionalConduct.UnderCanon5D,thestatusofthe X candidateduringthecampaign!whetherthecandidateisajudge . oralawyerwhoisnotajudge!determineswhetherCanon5or   Rule8.2(b)oftheMaryland[Lawyers]RulesofProfessional   Conductgovernsthebehaviorofthecandidate.Thestatusofthe `  candidatewhendisciplinaryproceedingsareinitiateddetermines 6   whetherthejudicialdisciplinaryprocessortheattorney  \  disciplinaryprocessisused.  2   Canon6      Canon6AisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon6A, H  withtheCommitteenoteomitted. n    Canon6BisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon6B,  withsubstitutionof Canonsfor anyoftheprovisionsofthis  CodeofJudicialConducttoclarifythatajudgecanbecharged v onlywithviolatingaCanonandnotaCommentorCommitteenote. L   Canon6CisderivedfromMarylandCode(1987),Canon6C,but H withCanon4D(4)madeapplicabletorecalledjudges.    Canon6DisderivedfromABACode(2000),Canon6F. z   " @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X    `    ADDnewRule16814,asfollows: `  Rule16814.MARYLANDCODEOFCONDUCTFORJUDICIALAPPOINTEES  2  @  &Preamble d    TheCourtofAppealshasadoptedthisCodeofConductfor `   JudicialAppointees togoverntheconductofall judicial   appointees .ThisCodeisgenerallypatternedaftertheMaryland  CodeofJudicialConduct,setforthinRule16813,andthe L Committeenotes,followingmanyoftheprovisionsofthatCode, H explainthoseprovisionsandmaybeofassistanceinthe  interpretationofparallelprovisionsofthisCode. P   ThisCodesetsforthminimumstandardsandisnotintended L asalimitationonanappointingauthorityspowertoimpose   additionalrequirements. T!"   #&% @XX%Terminology    InthisCodethefollowingdefinitionsapplyexceptas \ expresslyotherwiseprovidedorasnecessaryimplication X requires:   Ѐ(a)Fiduciary `     Fiduciary includesadministrator,attorneyinfactby  \  powerofattorney,executor,guardian,personalrepresentative, $  andtrustee.   Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and(2)and4E.Fora ,|  definitionof guardian,seeRule1202(j). R Ӏ(b)Gift     Gift hasthemeaningstatedinCode,StateGovernment Z Article,15102. "r Crossreference:SeeCanon4D(5).  Ӏ(c)Honorarium z    Honorarium hasthemeaningstatedinCode,State &v GovernmentArticle,15102. > Ѐ(d)Impartial,Impartiality,orImpartially  !    Impartial,   impartiality, or  impartially denotes F"# absenceofbiasorprejudiceinfavorof,oragainst,apartyor $^% classofparties,aswellasmaintaininganopenmindin % !' consideringeachissuethatisormaycomebeforethejudicial f'") appointee. )b$+ Crossreference:SeeCanons2A;3A,B(9)andD(1);4A(1);and *&- 5B(1)(a)and(d). +&. Ӏ(e)JudicialAppointee @-(0    Judicialappointee means:(1)anauditor,examiner,  master,orrefereeappointedbytheCourtofAppeals,theCourt x ofSpecialAppeals,acircuitcourt,oranorphans'court;or(2) $t acommissionerappointedbyaDistrictAdministrativeJudgewith   theapprovaloftheChiefJudgeoftheDistrictCourtof |  Maryland. ( x  Crossreference:Forthedefinitionofjudicialappointeefor $  purposesoffilingafinancialdisclosurestatement,seeRule   16816a.    @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion ( Ѐ(f)Knowingly,Knowledge,Known,orKnows    Knowingly, knowledge, known,or knowsmeansactual h knowledgeofthefactinquestion.Actualknowledgemaybe 0 inferredfromcircumstances. H Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and  (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).   @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion   !Z! Ѐ (f)Know  ""#   Knowmeanstohaveactualknowledgeofthefactin $% question,asmaybeinferredfromcircumstances.  b&!'  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and *(z#) (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).  )^$* Ӏ(g)MemberofJudicialAppointeesFamily *&,    Memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily meansa t,'. spouse,child,grandchild,parent,grandparent,orotherrelative <.)0 orindividualwithwhoma judicialappointee maintainsaclose  familialrelationship. x Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and4G(1). $t Ѐ(h)MemberofJudicialAppointeesHousehold      Memberofthejudicialappointeeshousehold hasthe |  meaningstatedinCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102for D    memberofhousehold. @  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(2)and4D(5).   Ѐ(i)PoliticalOrganization H     Politicalorganization meansapoliticalpartyorother D group,theprincipalpurposeofwhichistofurthertheelection   orappointmentofacandidatetopoliticaloffice. h Crossreference:SeeCanon5B(1)(b)and(c). d Ѐ(j)Require     Require, inthecontextthata judicialappointee  l   require certainconductofothers,meansthatthe judicial 4 appointee istotakereasonablestepstodirectandcontrolthe L  conductofthosepersons. !" Crossreference:SeeCanon3B(3),(5),(8),and(10)andC(2). p#$ Ѐ(k)SignificantFinancialInterest %l &  @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion t(#* Ѐ(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeansownershipof: <*%,   (A)aninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhas ,T'. receivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrentlyreceiving,or -)0 inthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear;  Ѐ(B)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or x   (C)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris @ convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.  X @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion    Ѐ(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeans: `    (A)ownershipofaninterestastheresultofwhichthe (x  ownerhasreceivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrently @ receiving,orinthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan  $1,000peryear;or    (B)ownershipbyajudicialappointeeorjudicial H appointeesspouseof: `    ` (i)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or (    ` (ii)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris  convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity. h  ̀(2)Inapplyingthisdefinition: "," Ѐ(A)ownershipofaninterestinamutualorcommon $$ investmentfundthatholdsasecurityisnotownershipofthe 4&!& securityunless: '0#(   (i)the judicialappointee [AlternativeBAdd: or )$* spousehere] participatesinthemanagementofthefund;or T+&, Ѐ  (ii)thereisbeforethe judicialappointee aproceeding -l(. thatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest,or  suchproceedingisimminent; \ Ѐ(B)ownershipofagovernmentsecurityisnota significant X financialinterest intheissuerunlessthereisbeforethe    judicialappointee aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffect   thevalueofthesecurity,orsuchproceedingisimminent; `     (C)neitheradepositinafinancialinstitutionnora  \  proprietaryinterestsuchasorsimilartothatofadepositorin   amutualsavingsassociation,memberinacreditunion,orpolicy d  holderinamutualinsurancecompanyisa significantfinancial ` interest intheentityunlessthereisbeforethe judicial ( appointee aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalue  ofthedepositorinterest,orsuchproceedingisimminent;and h   (D)anownershipinterestinasecurityheldbya d charitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,or  religiousorganizationwillnotbeimputedtoa judicial l appointee merelybecausethe judicialappointee orthe judicial 4   appointees child,parent,orspouseisanadvisertoordirector !L" orofficerof,orotherwiseactivelyparticipatesin,the #$ organization. p% & Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(c)and(d)(iii). 'l"( Ѐ(l)ThirdDegreeofRelationship ($*    Thirddegreeofrelationship meanstherelationship t*%, betweena judicialappointee andthefollowingindividuals:a <,'. greatgrandparent,grandparent,parent,uncle,aunt,brother, .T)0 sister,child,grandchild,greatgrandchild,nephew,orniece.  Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(d). \     @HH' CANON1   @ IntegrityandIndependence x   Anindependentandhonorablejudicialsystemis 0 indispensabletojusticeinoursociety.A judicialappointee   , shallobservehighstandardsofconductsothattheintegrityand   independenceofthejudicialsystemwillbepreserved.The P   provisionsofthisCodearetobeconstruedandappliedto L  furtherthatobjective.      @HH' CANON2   @TT AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety x A.  A judicialappointee shallavoidimproprietyandthe  , appearanceofimpropriety.A judicialappointee shallrespect   andcomplywiththelawandshallactatalltimesinamanner l   thatpromotespublicconfidenceinthe impartiality andintegrity h  ofthejudicialsystem. 0  @HH'COMMENT b   Publicconfidenceinthejudicialsystemiserodedby ^ irresponsibleorimproperconductby judicialappointees .A 4  judicialappointee mustexpecttobethesubjectofconstant  publicscrutiny.A judicialappointee mustthereforeaccept  restrictionsonhisorherconductthatmightbeviewedas  burdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyand f willingly.Examplesaretherestrictionsona judicial < appointees speechimposedbyCanon3B(8)and(9)thatare  p indispensabletothemaintenanceofthe impartiality , T independence,andintegrityofthejudicialsystem. 8   Theobligationtoavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceof  improprietyappliestoboththeprofessionalandpersonalconduct j ofa judicialappointee .Becauseitisnotpracticabletolist @   allprohibitedacts,theobligationisnecessarilycastin $!t! generaltermsthatextendtoconductby judicialappointees that !J" isharmfulalthoughnotspecificallymentionedinthisCode. ".# Actualimproprietiesunderthisstandardincludeviolationsof #$ law,otherspecificprovisionsofthisCode,orothercourt $% rules.Thetestforappearanceofimproprietyiswhetherthe `% & conductwouldcreateinreasonablemindsaperceptionthatthe 6&!'  judicialappointees abilitytocarryoutofficialresponsibili  '\"( tieswithcompetence, impartiality ,andintegrityisimpaired. '@#) SeealsotheCommenttoCanon2C. ($$* B.  A judicialappointee shallnotallowofficialconducttobe V+&- improperlyinfluencedbyafamily,political,social,orother -n(/ relationshiporbyanemploymentofferoropportunity.A   judicialappointee shallnotlendorusetheprestigeofthe \ positiontoadvancetheprivateinterestsofthe judicial $t appointee orothers;norshalla judicialappointee conveyor  < permitotherstoconveytheimpressionthattheyareinaspecial   positiontoinfluenceofficialconduct.A judicialappointee  `   shallnottestifyvoluntarilyasacharacterwitness. (x  @HH'COMMENT     Maintainingtheprestigeofthepositionof judicial V appointee isessentialtoasystemofgovernmentinwhichthe : judicialsystemfunctionsindependentlyoftheexecutiveand n legislativebranches.Respectforthepositionof judicial D appointee facilitatestheorderlyconductoflegitimatejudicial ( functions. Judicialappointees shoulddistinguishbetweenproper   andimproperuseoftheprestigeofpositioninalloftheir  activities.Forexample,itwouldbeimproperfora judicial v appointee toalludetohisorherpositiontogainapersonal Z advantage,suchasdeferentialtreatmentwhenstoppedbyapolice > officerforatrafficoffense.Similarly,officialletterhead d mustnotbeusedforconductinga judicialappointees personal : business.    A judicialappointee alsomustavoidlendingorusingthe z prestigeofthepositionfortheadvancementoftheprivate ^   interestsofothers.Forexample,a judicialappointee mustnot 4!! usethepositiontogainadvantageinacivilsuitinvolvinga "h"  memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily .Astotheacceptance "># ofawards,seeCanon4D(5)(c)andtheaccompanyingComment. #"$   Althougha judicialappointee shouldbesensitiveto ~% & possibleabuseoftheprestigeoftheposition,the judicial b&!' appointee mayserveasareferenceorprovidealetterof F'"( recommendationbasedonthe judicialappointees own knowledge . *(z#)   Judicialappointees mayparticipateintheprocessof )4%+ judicialselectionbycooperatingwithappointingauthoritiesand *&, screeningcommitteesseekingnamesforconsideration. +&-   J-(/   A judicialappointee mustnottestifyvoluntarilyasa  characterwitnessbecausetodosomaylendtheprestigeofthe  positioninsupportofthepartyforwhomthe judicialappointee  j testifies.A judicialappointee may,however,testifywhen N properlysubpoenaed. 2 C.A judicialappointee shallnotholdmembershipinany   organizationthatpracticesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasis R   ofnationalorigin,race,religion,orsex. N  @HH'COMMENT     Membershipofa judicialappointee inanorganizationthat ,| practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnational ` origin,race,religion,orsexgivesrisetoperceptionsthatthe 6  judicialappointees impartiality isimpaired.Itistherefore   inappropriatefora judicialappointee tocontinuetohold  membershipinanorganizationthatthe judicialappointeeknows ,  orreasonablyshould know ,practicesandwillcontinueto h practicesuchinvidiousdiscriminationsoastogiverisetothe L perceptionthatthe judicialappointees impartiality is "r impaired.Membershipinanorganizationwouldnotbeprohibited V unlessthatmembershipwouldreasonablygiverisetoaperception , ofpartiality.Certainorganizations!suchascongregational  brotherhoods,sisterhoods,orbowlingleagues!maywellbe  restrictedtoindividualsbelongingtotheparticular ^ congregationandthereforetothosesharingaparticular 4 religiousbelief,butitisunlikelythatmembershipinsuchan  Z  organizationwouldcausepeoplereasonablytobelievethatthe  0!  judicialappointee ispartial.   p      x   !"    `    Whetheranorganizationpracticesandwillcontinueto F$% practicethatkindofinvidiousdiscriminationisoftenacomplex %l & questiontowhich judicialappointees shouldbesensitive.The %B!' answercannotbedeterminedmerelyfromanexaminationofan &&"( organization'scurrentmembershiprollsbutmaydependon(1)the '") natureandpurposeoftheorganization,(2)anyrestrictionson (#* membership,(3)thehistoryoftheorganization'sselectionof X)$+ members,and(4)otherrelevantfactorssuchasthatthe .*~%, organizationisdedicatedtothepreservationofcultural, +T&- ethnic,orreligiousvaluesoflegitimatecommonintereststoits +*'. members,orthatitis,infactandeffect,anintimate,purely ,(/ privateorganizationwhosemembershiplimitationscouldnotbe -(0 constitutionallyprohibited.Absentsuchfactors,an \.)1 organizationisgenerallysaidtodiscriminateinvidiouslyifit  arbitrarilyexcludesfrommembership,onthebasisofnational  origin,race,religion,orsex,individualswhootherwisewould \ beadmittedtomembership. 2   AlthoughCanon2Crelatesonlytomembershipinorgani . zationsthatinvidiouslydiscriminateonthebasisofnational   origin,race,religion,orsex,a judicialappointees membership   inanorganizationthatengagesinanydiscriminatorymembership n  practicesprohibitedbythelawofthejurisdictionalsoviolates D   Canon2Aandgivestheappearanceofimpropriety.Inaddition,it  j  wouldbeaviolationofCanon2fora judicialappointee to  @  arrangeameetingataclubthatthe judicialappointee knows  $  practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnational   origin,race,religion,orsex,initsmembershiporother   policies,orforthe judicialappointee tousesuchclub d  regularly.Moreover,publicmanifestationbya judicial H  appointee ofhisorher knowing approvalofinvidious ,| discriminationonanybasisgivestheappearanceofimpropriety ` underCanon2anddiminishespublicconfidenceinthe 6  impartiality andintegrityofthejudicialsystem,inviolation   ofCanon2A.    Whena judicialappointee learnsthatanorganizationto L whichthe judicialappointee belongsengagesininvidious 0 discriminationthatwouldprecludemembershipunderCanon2Cor d underCanon2A,the judicialappointee ispermitted,inlieuof : resigning,tomakeimmediateeffortstohavetheorganization  discontinueitsinvidiouslydiscriminatorypractices,butis  requiredtosuspendparticipationinallotheractivitiesofthe z organization.Iftheorganizationfailstodiscontinueits P invidiouslydiscriminatorypracticesaspromptlyaspossible(and &v inalleventswithintwoyearsofthe judicialappointees first L  learningofthepractices),the judicialappointee isrequiredto  0! resignimmediatelyfromtheorganization.  !"   "#  @HH' CANON3   @ PerformanceofOfficialDuties @ ̀Intheperformanceofofficialduties,thefollowing   standardsapply. J   A.GENERALRESPONSIBILITIES.     A judicialappointee shallperformthedutiesofthe N  positiondiligently, impartially ,andwithouthavingor f manifestingbiasorprejudice,includingbiasorprejudicebased . onage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual  orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus. 6 @HH'COMMENT    A judicialappointee mustperformhisorherdutiesfairly d and impartially .A judicialappointee whomanifestsbiasofany H kindinaproceedingimpairsthefairnessoftheproceedingand ,| bringsthejudicialsystemintodisrepute.Facialexpressionand R bodylanguage,inadditiontooralcommunication,cangivean (  appearanceofbias.A judicialappointee mustbealerttoavoid  ! behaviorthatmaybeperceivedasprejudicial.Forexample,a !"  judicialappointee mustrefrainfromcomment,gesture,orother h"# conductthatcouldreasonablybeperceivedassexualharassment. L#$   @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  %!'  B.RESPONSIBILITIESFORTHECONDUCTOFPROCEEDINGS.  '") @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion   +Z&-  B.ADJUDICATIVERESPONSIBILITIES.  ,"(/ Ї(1)A judicialappointee shallbefaithfultothelawand  maintainprofessionalcompetenceinit. x Ѐ(2)A judicialappointee shallnotbeswayedbypartisan $t interests,publicclamor,orfearofcriticism.  < Ѐ(3)A judicialappointee shall require orderanddecorumin   proceedingsbeforethe judicialappointee . `   Ѐ(4)A judicialappointee shallbedignified. (x  Ѐ(5)A judicialappointee shallbecourteoustoandpatient @  withlawyers,litigants,witnesses,andotherswithwhomthe   judicialappointee dealsinanofficialcapacityandshall d  require similarconductoflawyersandcourtpersonnelandothers ,| subjecttothe judicialappointees directionandcontrol. D @HH'COMMENT    Thedutytohearallproceedingsfairlyandwithpatienceis > notinconsistentwiththedutytodisposepromptlyofthe d businessofthecourt. Judicialappointees canbebusinesslike : andefficientwhilebeingdeliberateandpatient.    (6)(a)A judicialappointee shallaccordtoeveryperson z   whohasalegalinterestinaproceedingpendingbeforethe B""  judicialappointee ,orthatperson'slawyer,therighttobe #>$ heardaccordingtolaw. %!& ! !  (b)Whilepresidingoveraproceeding,a judicialappointee  b'"( shallneitherinitiate,permit,orconsiderexparte *)z$* communicationsnorconsiderothercommunicationsmadetothe *2&,  judicialappointee outsidethepresenceofthepartiesconcerning ,'. apendingorimpendingproceeding,exceptasotherwiseprovided V.)0 inCanon3B(6).    (c)Expartecommunicationsthatrelatetoschedulingor \ otheradministrativepurposesoremergenciesandnotto d substantivemattersorissuesonthemeritsareauthorized,if:   (i)circumstancesrequire;(ii)the judicialappointee reasonably l  believesthatnopartywillgainaproceduralortactical 4   advantageasaresultofthecommunication;(iii)the judicial 0  appointee makesprovisionpromptlytonotifyallotherpartiesof   thesubstanceoftheexpartecommunication;and(iv)the p   judicialappointee affordsthepartiesreasonableopportunityto (x respond. @   (d)Withtheconsentoftheparties,a judicialappointee   mayconferseparatelywiththepartiesandtheirlawyersinan d efforttomediateorsettlematterspendingbeforethe judicial ` appointee . (   (e)A judicialappointee mayobtaintheadviceofa  disinterestedexpertonthelawapplicabletoaproceedingifthe h    judicialappointee :(i)makesprovisionpromptlytonotifyallof "d" thepartiesastotheexpertconsultedandthesubstanceofthe #,$ advice;and(ii)affordsthepartiesreasonableopportunityto % & respond. 4'"(   (f)A judicialappointee mayconsultwithcourtpersonnel (0$* whosefunctionistoaidthe judicialappointee incarryingout *%, adjudicativeresponsibilitiesandwithjudgesandother judicial p,'. appointees . 8.)0   (g)A judicialappointee mayinitiateorconsideranex  partecommunicationwhenexpresslyauthorizedbylawtodoso. x @HH'COMMENT  V   Theprohibitionagainstcommunicationsconcerninga   proceedingincludescommunicationsfromlawyers,lawteachers,   andotherpersonswhoarenotparticipantsintheproceeding, ^   excepttothelimitedextentpermitted. 4     Totheextentpracticable,allpartiesortheirlawyersmust 0  beincludedincommunicationswitha judicialappointee .     WheneverCanon3B(6)requiresthepresenceof,ornotice p  to,aparty,itisthepartyslawyeror,ifthepartyis F  unrepresented,thepartywhoistobepresentortowhomnotice l istobegiven. B   Canon3B(6)allowsforlimitedexpartecommunicationto  facilitateschedulingandotheradministrativepurposesandto z accommodateemergencies.Eventhen,however,a judicial P appointee mustdiscourageexpartecommunicationandallowit 4 onlyifallofthecriteriastatedinCanon3B(6)clearlyare h met.A judicialappointee mustdisclosetoallpartiesallex > partecommunicationdescribedinCanon3B(6)(c)and(e) " regardingaproceedingpendingorimpendingbeforethe judicial  appointee .    A judicialappointee mustnotindependentlyinvestigate L factsinacaseandmustconsideronlytheevidencepresented, 0 exceptmattersofwhichthe judicialappointee properlycantake  V  judicialnotice.  :!   A judicialappointee mayrequestapartytosubmitproposed "# findingsoffactandconclusionsoflawifalloftheother z#$ partiesareapprisedoftherequestandgivenanopportunityto P$% respondtotheproposedfindingsandconclusions. &%v &   A judicialappointee mustmakereasonableefforts,including &""( theprovisionofappropriatesupervision,toensurethatCanon3B '#) (6)isnotviolatedthroughpersonnelsubjecttothe judicial (#* appointees directionandcontrol. p)$+ Ӏ(7)A judicialappointee shalldisposeofofficialbusiness *+z&- efficiently,fairly,andpromptly. ,B(/ @HH'COMMENT    Promptdispositionofofficialbusinessrequiresa judicial \ appointee todevoteadequatetimetoofficialduties,tobe @ punctualinattendinghearingsandexpeditiousindetermining $t mattersundersubmission,andtoinsistthatpersonnelsubjectto J the judicialappointees directionandcontrolandlitigantsand   theirlawyerscooperatetothatend.   Ӏ(8)A judicialappointee shallabstainfrompubliccomment `   thatrelatestoaproceedingpendingorimpendinginanycourt (x  andthatmightreasonablybeexpectedtoaffecttheoutcomeof $  thatproceedingortoimpairthefairnessofthatproceedingand   shall require similarabstentiononthepartofpersonnelsubject ,| tothe judicialappointees directionandcontrol.Canon3B(8) D doesnotprohibita judicialappointee frommakingpublic   statementsinthecourseofofficialdutiesorfromexplaining  forpublicinformationtheproceduresofacourt. 0 @HH'COMMENT    Personnelsubjecttothe judicialappointees directionand ^ controldoesnotincludethelawyersinaproceedingbeforea B  judicialappointee .Theconductoflawyersinthisregardis  h  governedbyRule3.6oftheMaryland[Lawyers]Rulesof  L! ProfessionalConduct. !"" Ӏ(9)Withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethatis T$% likelytocomebeforethecourt,a judicialappointee shallnot &P!' makeacommitment,pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwith '#) the impartial performanceofthedutiesoftheappointed t)$+ position. <+&-   -)0 @HH'COMMENT    Canon3B(8)and(9)restrictionsona judicialappointees  \ speechareessentialtothemaintenanceofthe impartiality , @ independence,andintegrityofthejudicialsystem.Apending $t proceedingisonethathasbegunbutnotyetreachedfinal J disposition.Animpendingproceedingisonethatisanticipated   butnotyetbegun.Therequirementthata judicialappointee    abstainfrompubliccommentregardingapendingorimpending   proceedingcontinuesduringanytrialcourtorappellateprocess `   anduntilfinaldisposition. 6   Ӏ(10)A judicialappointee shall require lawyersin   proceedingsbeforethe judicialappointee torefrainfrom   manifesting,bywordorconduct,biasorprejudicebasedonage, H disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual D orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.Canon3B(10)doesnot  precludelegitimateadvocacywhensuchstatusorothersimilar L factorisanissueinaproceeding. H   (11)Unlessrecusalisappropriate,a judicialappointee   shallhearanddeterminemattersassignedtothe judicial l appointee . 4 Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000  L! oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties !"" for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment "# officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle, ~#$ 15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions T$% governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, *%z & StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords); &P!' Code,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). &&"( C.ADMINISTRATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. .*~%,   (1) ` A judicialappointee shalldischargehisorher +*'. administrativeresponsibilitieswithoutfavoritismornepotism -(0 andshallcooperatewithjudges,other judicialappointees ,and  courtofficialsintheadministrationofcourtbusiness. x   (2)A judicialappointee shall require courtpersonneland $t otherssubjecttothe judicialappointees directionandcontrol  < toobservethestandardsofdiligenceandfidelitythatapplyto   the judicialappointee andtorefrainfrommanifestingbiasor `   prejudiceintheperformanceoftheirofficialduties.  (x   󀀀(3)A judicialappointee shallnotmakeunnecessary $  appointmentsandshallnotapprovecompensationofappointees   beyondthefairvalueofservicesrendered. H @HH'COMMENT    Consentbythepartiestoanappointmentoranawardof v compensationdoesnotrelievea judicialappointee ofthe L obligationprescribedbyCanon3C(3). 0 D.RECUSAL.  Ӏ(1)A judicialappointee shallrecusehimselforherselffrom 4 aproceedinginwhichthe judicialappointees impartiality might  L! reasonablybequestioned,includinganinstancewhen: "# Ѐ(a)the judicialappointee hasapersonalbiasorprejudice p$% concerningapartyorapartyslawyerorextraofficial 8&!'  knowledge ofadisputedevidentiaryfactconcerningthe '4#) proceeding; )$+   (b)(i)the judicialappointee servedasalawyerinthe X+&- matterincontroversy,oralawyerwithwhomthe judicial  -p(/ appointee previouslypracticedlawservedduringsuchassociation  asalawyerconcerningthematter,orthe judicialappointee has x beenamaterialwitnessconcerningit; @ @HH'COMMENT     Alawyerinagovernmentalagencydoesnotnecessarilyhave n   anassociationwithotherlawyersemployedbythatagencywithin D   themeaningofCanon3D(1)(b);a judicialappointee formerly j  employedbyagovernmentalagency,however,shouldnot N  participateinaproceedingifthe judicialappointees  $   impartiality mightreasonablybequestionedbecauseofsuch   association.     (ii)ifa judicialappointee isparttime,the judicial H appointee oranyattorneywithwhomthe judicialappointee is ` associated,representsapartyorotherwisehasaninterestin ( theproceeding;    (c)the judicialappointeeknows thatheorshe, 0 individuallyorasa fiduciary ,or amemberofthejudicial H appointeesfamily ,hasa significantfinancialinterest inthe  subjectmatterincontroversyorinapartytotheproceeding;  @HH'COMMENT 4!!   Theremaybesituationsthatinvolvealesserfinancial "0# interestbutnonethelessrequirerecusalbecauseofthe judicial #$ appointees ownsenseofpropriety.Conversely,thereare $% situationswhereparticipationmaybeappropriateeventhoughthe ~% & "financialinterest"thresholdispresent.Inthelattercase, T&!' the judicialappointee firstmustobtainanopinionfromthe *'z"( JudicialEthicsCommitteewithregardtotheappropriateness, (^#) exceptasprovidedinCanon3E(NonrecusalbyAgreement). (4$* Ӏ(d)the judicialappointee ,the judicialappointees spouse, *%, anindividualwithinthe thirddegreeofrelationship toeither X,'. ofthem,orthespouseofsuchanindividual:  .p)0   (i)isapartytotheproceedingoradirector,officer,  ortrusteeofaparty; \   (ii)isactingasalawyerintheproceeding; X @HH'COMMENT     Thefactthatalawyerinaproceedingisaffiliatedwitha 6   lawfirmwithwhichalawyerrelativeofthe judicialappointee   \  isaffiliateddoesnotofitselfrequirerecusalofthe judicial  @  appointee .Underappropriatecircumstances,thefactthat"the $   judicialappointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned"   underCanon3D(1),orthatthelawyerrelativeis known bythe    judicialappointee tohaveaninterestinthelawfirmthatcould   be"substantiallyaffectedbytheproceeding"underCanon3D d  (1)(d)(iii),mayrequirethe judicialappointees recusal. :   (iii)is known bythe judicialappointee tohavea   significantfinancialinterest thatcouldbesubstantially  affectedbytheproceeding;or Z   (iv)istothe judicialappointeesknowledge likelyto V beamaterialwitnessintheproceeding;or    (e)the judicialappointee ,whilea judicialappointee ora z candidateforjudicialoffice,hasmadeapublicstatementthat B   commits,orappearstocommit,the judicialappointee with !>" respectto: #$ Ѐ(i)anissueintheproceeding;or b% &   (ii)thecontroversyintheproceeding. '^"(   (2) ` A judicialappointee shallkeepinformedabouthisor ( $* herpersonaland fiduciary financialinterestsandshallmakea *%, reasonableefforttokeepinformedaboutthepersonalfinancial J,'. interestsofeach memberofthejudicialappointeeshousehold . -F)0 @HH'COMMENT    UnderCanon3D(1),a judicialappointee mustrecusehimself \ orherselfwheneverthe judicialappointees impartiality might @ reasonablybequestioned,regardlessofwhetheranyofthe $t specificinstancesinCanon3D(1)apply. J   A judicialappointee mustdiscloseontherecordinformation |  thatthe judicialappointee believesthepartiesortheirlawyers `   mightconsiderrelevanttothequestionofrecusal,evenifthe D    judicialappointee believesthatthereisnorealbasisfor j  recusal. N    Bydecisionallaw,theruleofnecessitymayoverridethe   ruleofrecusal.Astoajudge,forexample,thejudgemightbe   theonlyjudgeavailableinamatterrequiringimmediatejudicial V  action,suchasahearingonprobablecauseoratemporary ,| restrainingorder.Whentheruleofnecessitydoesoverridethe R ruleofrecusal,a judicialappointee mustdiscloseontherecord ( thebasisforpossiblerecusaland,ifpracticable,use   reasonableeffortstotransferthematterpromptlytoanother   judicialappointee orjudge. h E.NONRECUSALBYAGREEMENT.    IfrecusalwouldberequiredbyCanon3D,the judicial z appointee maydiscloseontherecordthereasonfortherecusal. B Ifafterdisclosureofanyreasonforrecusalotherthanas  Z  requiredbyCanon3D(a)(1),thepartiesandlawyers,outofthe !" presenceofthe judicialappointee ,allagreethatthe judicial b#$ appointee neednotrecusehimselforherself,andthe judicial *%z & appointee iswillingtoparticipate,theagreementoftheparties &B"( shallbeincorporatedintherecord,andthe judicialappointee  ( $* mayparticipateintheproceeding. *%,   -T(/ @HH'COMMENT    Thisproceduregivesthepartiesanopportunitytowaivethe \ recusalifthe judicialappointee agrees.The judicialappointee  2 maycommentonpossiblewaiverbutmustensurethatconsideration f ofthequestionofwaiverismadeindependentlyofthe judicial < appointee .Apartymayactthroughcounselifcounselrepresents   ontherecordthatthepartyhasbeenconsultedandconsents.As   apracticalmatter,a judicialappointee maywishtohaveall   partiesandtheirlawyerssignawaiveragreement. n   F.DISCIPLINARYRESPONSIBILITIES.   Ѐ(1)A judicialappointee shouldtakeorinitiateappropriate H  correctivemeasureswithrespecttotheunprofessionalconductof ` ajudge,another judicialappointee ,oralawyer.     (2)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if  attempted,werenotsuccessful,a judicialappointee shallinform 0 theCommissiononJudicialDisabilitiesoffacts known tothat H  judicialappointee thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoa  judgesfitnessforoffice.    (3)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if 4   attempted,werenotsuccessful,a judicialappointee shallinform !0" theAttorneyGrievanceCommissionoffacts known tothe judicial #$ appointee thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoalawyers p% & honesty,trustworthiness,orfitnessasalawyerinother 8'"( respects. (4$*   (4)Actsofa judicialappointee requiredorpermittedby *%, Canon3F(1),(2),or(3)shallbeabsolutelyprivileged,andno X,'. civilactionpredicatedthereonmaybeinstitutedagainstthe .T)0  judicialappointee .  @HH'COMMENT N   Permittinga judicialappointee totake"corrective" J measuresgivesthe judicialappointee awiderangeofoptionsto  . dealwithunprofessionalconduct.Appropriatecorrective   measuresmayincludedirectcommunicationwiththejudge,    judicialappointee ,orlawyerwhoisbelievedtohavecommitted n   theviolationorotherdirectactionifavailable.Theremaybe R   instancesofprofessionalmisconductthatwouldwarrantaprivate (x  admonitionorreferraltoabarassociationcounselingservice. N      @HH' CANON4   @ExtraOfficialActivities j A.EXTRAOFFICIALACTIVITIESINGENERAL.     A judicialappointee shallconductallextraofficial t  activitiessothattheydonot: <     (1)causeasubstantialquestionastothe judicial 8  appointees capacitytoact impartially asa judicialappointee ;     (2)demeantheposition;or x    (3)interferewiththeproperperformanceofofficial $t duties.   @HH'COMMENT |   Completeseparationofa judicialappointee fromextra (x officialactivitiesisneitherpossiblenordesirable.A  \  judicialappointee shouldnotbecomeisolatedfromthe judicial 2 appointees community.    Anextraofficialactivity,however,maybeperceivedto  reflectona judicialappointees behavior.Forexample,an V expressionofbiasorprejudicebya judicialappointee ,even : outsidehisorherofficialactivities,maycauseasubstantial  n  questionastothe judicialappointees capacitytoact  D!  impartially asa judicialappointee .Expressionsthatmaydoso !(" includejokesorotherremarksdemeaningindividualsonthebasis " # oftheirage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex, #$ sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.SeeCanon2Cand h$% theaccompanyingComment. >% & B.AVOCATIONALACTIVITIES. (#*   SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a judicial B*%, appointee maylecture,speak, teach,write,andotherwise  ,Z'. participateinotherextraofficialactivitiesconcerningthe -")0 administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,improvementofthe  law,andnonlegalmatters.  \ @HH'COMMENT .   A judicialappointee isinauniquepositiontocontribute   totheadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,and n  improvementofthelaw,includingrevisionofsubstantiveand D   procedurallawandimprovementofcriminalandjuvenilejustice.  j  Astimemaypermit,a judicialappointee isencouragedtodoso,  @  eitherindependentlyorthroughabarassociationorother $  organizationdedicatedtotheimprovementofthelaw.     Thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeis V  used,inthisandothersectionsofCanon4,primarilyin ,|  connectionwitha judicialappointees charitable,civic,or R governmentalactivities,toremind judicialappointees thatuse 6 ofpermissivelanguageinvarioussectionsofthisCodedoesnot  relievea judicialappointee fromtheotherprovisionsofthis  Codethatapplytothespecificconduct.  C.CHARITABLE,CIVIC,ANDGOVERNMENTALACTIVITIES. ,   (1)Exceptwhenactingproseinamatterthatinvolvesthe   judicialappointee orthe judicialappointees interests,when @ actingastoamatterthatconcernstheadministrationof X justice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementofthelaw,orwhen  ! actingasotherwiseallowedunderCanon4,a judicialappointee  `"# shallnotappearatapublichearingbefore,orotherwiseconsult ($x% with,anexecutiveorlegislativebodyorofficial. %$!' @HH'COMMENT V(#*   AssuggestedintheReporter'sNotestotheABAModelCode *R%, ofJudicialConduct(1990),the administrationofjustice"is *.&- notlimitedto mattersofjudicialadministration"butisbroad + '. enoughtoincludeothermattersrelatingtoajudicialsystem. ,'/  <.)1  @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion    (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon x 4A,ajudicialappointeemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmental @ commission,committee,orposition.  X @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion      (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon `  4A,ajudicialappointeemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmental (x  advisorycommission,committee,orposition.  @ @HH'COMMENT    A judicialappointee maynotacceptagovernmental : appointmentthatcouldinterferewiththeeffectivenessand n independenceofthejudicialsystem,assumeordischargean D executiveorlegislativepower(MarylandDeclarationofRights,  Article8),orholdan"office"undertheconstitutionorother  lawsoftheUnitedStatesorStateofMaryland(Maryland v DeclarationofRights,Articles33and35). L   (3)Ajudicialappointeemayrepresentthiscountry,a  state,oralocalityonceremonialoccasionsorinconnection z   withcultural,educational,orhistoricalactivities. &"v"   (4)(a)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a judicial #"$ appointee maybeadirector,member,non-legaladviser,officer, % & ortrusteeofacharitable,civic,educational,fraternalor b'"( sororal,law-related,orreligiousorganization. )^$* @HH'COMMENT +&-   SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseofthephrase <-(/  subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode.Asanexampleofthe .b)0 meaningofthephrase,a judicialappointee permittedunderCanon  4C(4)toserveontheboardofanorganizationmaybeprohibited  fromsuchserviceby,forexample,Canon2Cor4A,ifthe j organizationpracticesinvidiousdiscriminationorifserviceon @ theboardotherwisecausesasubstantialquestionastothe f  judicialappointees capacitytoact impartially asa judicial < appointee orastoserviceasalegaladviser.     (b)A judicialappointee shallnotbeadirector,member,   nonlegaladviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationthatis R   conductedfortheeconomicorpoliticaladvantageofitsmembers . N    (c)A judicialappointee shallnotbeadirector,member,   nonlegaladviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationifit r  islikelythattheorganization: n    ` (i)willbeengagedregularlyinadversary  proceedingsinanycourt;or v    ` (ii)dealswithpeoplewhoarereferredtothe "r organizationbyanycourt.  @HH'COMMENT P   Thechangingnatureofsomeorganizationsandoftheir L relationshiptothelawmakesitnecessaryfora judicial "  appointee regularlytoreexaminetheactivitiesofeach  ! organizationwithwhichthe judicialappointee isaffiliatedto !" determinewhetheritispropertocontinuearelationshipwith ~"# it.Forexample,inmanyjurisdictions,charitableorganizations T#$ aremorefrequentlyincourtnowthaninthepastormakepolicy *$z% decisionsthatmayhavepoliticalsignificanceorimply %P & commitmenttocausesthatmaycomebeforethecourtsfor %&!' adjudication. &!(   (d)(i)A judicialappointee shallnotparticipate X(#* personallyin:  *p%,    `  (A)solicitationoffundsorotherfundraising +'. activities,exceptthata judicialappointee maysolicitfunds x-(0 fromother judicialappointees overwhomthe judicialappointee   doesnotexercisesupervisoryauthority;or x    `  (B)amembershipsolicitationthatreasonably $t mightbeperceivedascoerciveor,exceptaspermittedinCanon   4C(4)(d)(i)(A),isessentiallyafundraisingmechanism. |     ` (ii)A judicialappointee shallnotparticipateasa ( x  guestofhonororspeakeratafundraisingevent. @     ` (iii)ExceptasotherwiseallowedbyCanon4C   (4)(d),a judicialappointee shallnotuseorlendtheprestige H  ofhisorherpositionforfundraisingormembership ` solicitation.      ` (iv)A judicialappointee may: h    `  (A)assistanorganizationinplanningfund 0 raising; ,    `  (B)participateintheinvestmentandmanagement  ofanorganizationsfunds;and 4    `  (C)makerecommendationstoprivateandpublic 0  fundgrantingorganizationsonprogramsandprojectsconcerning !" theadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovement 8#$ ofthelaw. $4 & D.FINANCIALACTIVITIES. )8%,   (1)A judicialappointee shallnotengageinbusinessor +&. financialdealingsthat: \-(0   (a)reasonablywouldbeperceivedtoviolateCanon2B;or    (b)involvethe judicialappointee infrequent \ transactionsorcontinuingbusinessrelationshipswithlawyersor $t otherpersonslikelytocomebeforethe judicialappointee orthe   appointingcourtinmattersrelatingtothe judicialappointees    dutiesandauthority. `   @HH'COMMENT 2    Canon4D(1)(b)isnecessarytoavoidcreatinganappearance   ofexploitationofpositionorfavoritismandtominimizethe d  potentialforrecusal.A judicialappointee alsoshould : discourage membersofthejudicialappointeesfamily from n engagingindealingsthatreasonablywouldappeartoexploitthe R  judicialappointees position.Withrespecttoaffiliationof ( relativesofthe judicialappointee withlawfirmsappearing   beforethe judicialappointee ,seetheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(d)  relatingtorecusal.    Participationbya judicialappointee inbusinessand 0 financialdealingsissubjecttothegeneralprohibitionsin d Canon4Aagainstactivitiesthatcauseasubstantialquestionas : to impartiality ,demeantheposition,orinterferewiththe  properperformanceofofficialduties.Suchparticipationalso  issubjecttothegeneralprohibitioninCanon2against z activitiesinvolvingimproprietyortheappearanceofimpropriety P andtheprohibitioninCanon2Bagainstmisuseoftheprestigeof & v  theposition.Inaddition,a judicialappointee mustmaintain  L! highstandardsofconductinallofthe judicialappointees  !0" activities,assetforthinCanon1.SeetheCommenttoCanon4B "# regardinguseofthephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthis #$ Code. p$%   Canon4Disnotintendedtoapplytothepracticeoflawof &l!' part-time judicialappointees ,whichiscoveredbyCanon4G(2). &B"(    ` (2) SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a (#*  judicialappointee mayholdandmanageinvestments,including  X*%,  realestate,andengageinotherremunerativeactivityexcept  ,p'. thatafull-time judicialappointee shallnotholddirectorship -)0 orofficeinabank,insurancecompany,lendinginstitution,  publicutility,savingsandloanassociation,orotherbusiness, \ enterprise,orventurethatisaffectedwithapublicinterest. X    ` (3) A judicialappointee shallmanageinvestmentsand   otherfinancialintereststominimizethenumberofcasesin |  whichrecusalwouldberequired.Assoonaspracticablewithout ( x  seriousfinancialdetriment,a judicialappointee shalldispose $  ofthosefinancialintereststhatmightrequirefrequentrecusal.      ` (4) A judicialappointee shallneitherusenor H  disclose,infinancialdealingsorforanyotherpurposenot ` relatedtothe judicialappointees officialduties,information   thatisacquiredinhisorherofficialcapacityandthatis  confidential,privileged,orotherwisenotpartofthepublic 0 record. , Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000  oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties ^ for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment 4 officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle,  Z 15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions 0  governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code,  ! StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords) !" andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). b"#    ` (5) A judicialappointee shallnotaccept,andshall $^% urge membersofthejudicialappointeeshousehold nottoaccept, %&!' abequest,favor, gift ,orloanfromanyoneexceptfor: '")    ` (a)abook,tape,orotherresourcematerialsupplied f)$+ byapublisheronacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse,a gift +b&-  incidenttoapublictestimonial,oraninvitationtoa judicial ,*(/ appointee andthe judicialappointees spouseorguesttoattend  abarrelatedfunctionoranactivitydevotedtothe x administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementof $t thelaw;      ` (b)anaward,benefit,or gift incidenttothe |  business,profession,orotherseparateactivityofaspouseor D   other memberofthejudicialappointeeshousehold ,includingan @  award,benefit,or gift fortheuseofboththehouseholdmember   and judicialappointee (asspouseorhouseholdmember)ifthe   award,benefit,or gift couldnotreasonablybeperceivedas H intendedtoinfluencethe judicialappointee intheperformance ` ofofficialduties; (    ` (c)ordinarysocialhospitality;     ` (d)a gift fromafriendorrelativeforaspecial 0 occasion,suchasananniversary,birthday,orwedding,ifthe H  gift isfairlycommensuratewiththeoccasionandthefriendship  orrelationship; l      ` (e)abequest,favor, gift ,orloanfromarelativeor "h" closepersonalfriendwhoseappearanceorinterestinacase #0$ wouldinanyeventrequirearecusalunderCanon3D; % &    ` (f)aloanfromalendinginstitutioninitsregular 8'"( courseofbusinessonthesametermsgenerallyavailableto (4$* personswhoarenot judicialappointees ; *%,    ` (g)afellowshiporscholarshipawardedonthesame X,'. termsandbasedonthesamecriteriaappliedtootherapplicants; .T)0 or     ` (h)anyotherbequest,favor, gift ,orloanif:(1)the \ donororlenderisnotapersonwhoseinterestshavecomeorare $t likelytocomebeforethe judicialappointee and(2)the judicial   appointee reports,onthe judicialappointees financial   disclosureform,allbequests,favors, gifts ,andloansrequired `   underRule16816tobereported. (x  E. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES.     Whilea judicialappointee isnotabsolutelydisqualified H fromholdinga fiduciary position,a judicialappointee shallnot ` acceptorcontinuetoholdsuchpositionifdoingsowould ( interfereorseemtointerferewiththeproperperformanceof  officialduties,orifthebusinessinterestsofthose 0 representedrequireinvestmentsinenterprisesthatareaptto , comebeforethe judicialappointee officiallyortendtobe  involvedinquestionstobedeterminedbythe judicialappointee . P   F.SERVICEASARBITRATORORMEDIATOR. #$   Afull-time judicialappointee shallnotactasan p% & arbitratorormediatororotherwiseperformofficialfunctionsin 8'"( aprivatecapacityunlessexpresslyauthorizedbylaw. (4$* @HH'COMMENT f+&-   Canon4Fdoesnotprecludea judicialappointee from -b(/ participatinginsettlementconferencesorapplyingmethodsof -F)0 alternativedisputeresolutionthatareincludedinthe judicial  appointees officialduties.Ifbyreasonofdisclosuremade  duringorasaresultof asettlementconferenceorother x alternativedisputeresolutionproceeding,the judicial N appointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned,the 2  judicialappointee shouldnotparticipateinthematterfurther.  f SeeCanon3D(1).  J G.PRACTICEOFLAW. R     (1)ExceptasallowedbyCanon4G,a judicialappointee  N  shallnotpracticelaw.Notwithstandingthisprohibition,a    judicialappointee mayactproseinamatterinvolvingthe r   judicialappointee orthe judicialappointees interestand,if : withoutcompensation,maygivelegaladvicetoanddraftor R reviewdocumentsfora memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily .    (2)Totheextentnotexpresslyprohibitedbylaworthe v appointingauthorityandsubjecttootherapplicableprovisions "r ofthisCode,aparttime judicialappointee maypracticelaw.    (3)A judicialappointee shallavoidconductwherebythe   judicialappointee usesorseemstousetheappointee'sposition ^   tofurthersuccessinthepracticeoflaw. &"v"   (4)A judicialappointee shallnotappearasanindividual #"$ inamatterinvolvingthe judicialappointee orthe judicial % & appointees interestintheappointingcourt. b'"(   (5)Priortoassumingofficialduties,afull-time judicial *)z$* appointee shouldenterintoanagreementforpaymentsrelatingto *B&, the judicialappointees formerlawpractice.Apaymentperiod , (. limitedtoamaximumoffiveyearsorlessispresumptively  reasonable. \ @HH'COMMENT X   Canon4G(1)limitsthepracticeoflawinarepresentative   capacitybutnotinaprosecapacity.A judicialappointee may   actforhimselforherselfinalllegalmatters,including n  mattersinvolvinglitigationandmattersinvolvingappearances D   beforeorotherdealingswithlegislativeandothergovernmental  j  bodies.However,insodoing,a judicialappointee mustnot  @  abusetheprestigeofthepositionforanyreason,including $  advancementofaninterestofthe judicialappointee orthe    judicialappointees family.SeeCanons2Band4C(1).     ThisCodeallowsa judicialappointee togivelegaladvice H  to,anddraftlegaldocumentsfor,a memberofthejudicial ,| appointeesfamily .However,exceptforaparttime judicial ` appointee allowedtopracticelaw,a judicialappointee mustnot D receiveanycompensationfrom,oractasanadvocateor ( negotiatorfor,a memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily ina  legalmatter.Aparttime judicialappointee mustnotact  contrarytoaprohibitionoftheappointingauthority. v H.COMPENSATIONANDREIMBURSEMENT.    Unlessotherwiseprohibitedbylaw,a judicialappointee may z receivecompensationandreimbursementofexpensesforextra B officialactivitiespermittedbythisCodeif:  >!   (1)thesourceofcompensationorreimbursementdoesnot "# givetheappearanceofimpropriety; F$%   (2)thecompensationdoesnotexceedareasonableamountand %B!' doesnotexceedtheamountapersonwhoisnota judicial '") appointee ordinarilywouldreceiveforthesameactivity;and f)$+   (3)theexpensereimbursementislimitedtotheactualcost .+~&- offood,lodging,andtravelreasonablyincurredbya judicial ,*(/ appointee and,ifappropriatetotheoccasion,bythe judicial  appointees spouseorguest. x @HH'COMMENT  f   Acceptanceofan  honorarium ,asdefinedinCode,State   GovernmentArticle,15102(r),isgovernedbyCode,State   GovernmentArticle,15505.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.128 |   (issuedFebruary2,2000). R     A judicialappointee mustdisclosefinancialmatterssuchas N  debtsorincome,investments,orotherassets,onlytotheextent 2  requiredbyCanon4H,byCanon3DorE,orbylaw.SeeCode,   StateGovernmentArticle,15610.     ` @HH' CANON5   @!PoliticalActivity j A.  POLITICALCONDUCTOF JUDICIALAPPOINTEE WHOISNOT   CANDIDATE.     (1) ` A judicialappointee whoisnotacandidatefor <   electiontojudicialofficeshallnotengageinanypartisan T  politicalactivity.     (2)(A)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon5A(2),a \   judicialappointee shallresigntheappointedpositionwhenthe X  judicialappointee becomesacandidateforanonjudicialoffice.      ` (B)A judicialappointee maycontinuetoholdthe  appointedpositionwhileacandidateforelectionto,ordelegate ` in,aMarylandconstitutionalconvention.  \ B.  POLITICALCONDUCTOF JUDICIALAPPOINTEE WHOISCANDIDATE. d   (1)A judicialappointee whoisacandidateforelectionto , |  ajudicialofficemayengageinpartisanpoliticalactivity !D" allowedbylawwithrespecttosuchcandidacy,exceptthatthe #$  judicialappointee : L% &    ` (a)shallmaintainthedignityappropriatetothe 'd"( appointedpositionandactinamannerconsistentwiththe ($*  impartiality ,independence,andintegrityofthejudicialsystem; l*%,    ` (b) shallnotactasaleaderorholdanofficeina  4,'. politicalorganization ; -0)0    ` (c) shallnotmakeaspeechforacandidateor   politicalorganization orpubliclyendorseacandidatefornon \ judicialoffice; $t @HH'COMMENT     A judicialappointee doesnotpubliclyendorseacandidate R   forpublicofficebyhavingthejudicialappointeesnameonthe 6   sameticket.  \     ` (d)withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethat   islikelytocomebeforethecourt,shallnotmakeacommitment, d  pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththe impartial  ` performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice; ( @HH'COMMENT Z   Canon5B(1)(d)doesnotprohibitacandidatefrommakinga V pledgeorpromiserespectingimprovementsincourtadministration , orthefaithfuland impartial performanceofthedutiesofthe  office.     ` (e)shallnotknowinglymisrepresenthisorher l identityorqualifications,theidentityorqualificationsofan h opponent,oranyotherfact;and      ` (f)shallnotallowanyotherpersontodoforthe p!"  judicialappointee whatthe judicialappointee isprohibitedfrom #l$ doing. $4 &   (2)Acandidateforajudicialofficemayrespondtoa &!( personalattackoranattackonthecandidatesrecordaslongas <(#* theresponsedoesnotviolateCanon5B(1). )8%,   @-(0 C.  STATUSOF JUDICIALAPPOINTEE ASCANDIDATE.    Candidateappliestoa judicialappointee seekingtobe x electedtoajudicialofficefromthedateonwhichthe judicial @ appointee filesacertificateofcandidacyinaccordancewiththe  X Marylandelectionlaws,butnoearlierthantwoyearspriorto   thegeneralelectionfortheoffice. |   D.DISCIPLINE. $    A judicialappointee whoisanunsuccessfulcandidatefor   judicialofficeandwhoisalawyerissubjecttoattorney H disciplineforcampaignconduct.Asuccessfulcandidateis D subjecttojudicialdisciplineforcampaignconduct.  Crossreference:SeeRules16701through16781concerning L attorneydisciplineandRules16802through16810concerning "r judicialdiscipline. H    @HH' CANON6   @%Compliance x   ViolationofanyoftheCanonsbya judicialappointee is  , groundsfordisciplinaryaction,includingremovalbythe   appointingauthority. P   Source:ThisRuleisderivedinpartfromformerRule1232 "  (renumberedRule16814byRulesOrderdatedJanuary18,1996,   effectiveJuly1,1996)andisinpartnew. ~  @hh#REPORTERSNOTE &   ProposedrevisedRule16814conformstheprovisionsof  currentRule16814tothecomparablesectionsinproposed X revisedRule16813andmakescertainstylisticchangesas .~ requiredbytherevision. T   Inaddition,acrossreferencetothedefinitionofjudicial  appointeeinRule16816isproposedtobeaddedfollowingthe  definitionofjudicialappointeeintheTerminologysectionof \ Rule16814.SeetheReportersnotetotheproposedamendments 2 toRule16816. X   . @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X   AMENDRule16816torequirethefilingoffinancial   disclosurestatementsbyallmastersandDistrictCourt 6   Commissionersandtomakecertainstylisticchanges,asfollows:  2  Rule16-816.FINANCIALDISCLOSURESTATEMENT!JUDICIAL d  APPOINTEES `  Ӏ   Ӏa. In ForpurposesofthisRule, "judicialappointee"includes  afull-timejudicialappointeeasdefinedinMarylandRule16-814 > andany judicialappointeemeans(1)afullorparttimemaster, : (2)afullorparttimecommissionerappointedbyaDistrict  AdministrativeJudgewiththeapprovaloftheChiefJudgeofthe B DistrictCourtofMaryland,and(3)anauditor,examiner, >  auditor, orreferee ,orDistrictCourtcommissionerasdefinedin  thatRule whoisfulltimeorwhoearnsinanycalendaryear,by F ! reasonofthejudicialappointee'sofficialposition, !B# compensationatleastequaltothepayprovidedforthebasestep #% ofStatePayGrade16,asineffectonJuly1ofthatcalendar J% ' year.If ajudicialappointee anauditor,examiner,orreferee &F") hasservedassuchforonlyaportionofacalendaryear,apro (#+ ratadeterminationofcompensationshallbeapplied. N*%-   , (0 Crossreference:Forthedefinitionofjudicialappointeefor  purposesofapplyingtheMarylandCodeofConductforJudicial  Appointees,seetheTerminologysectionofRule16814. \ Ӏb.EveryjudicialappointeeshallfilewiththeStateCourt X Administratoranannualfinancialstatementontheform   prescribedbytheCourtofAppeals.Whenfiled,afinancial `  disclosurestatementisapublicrecord.  \  Ѐ...   Ѐd.If an ajudicialappointeewhofilesacertificateof d  candidacyfornominationforanelectedofficehasfileda `  statementpursuantto15-605or15-610(b)oftheState   GovernmentArticle,AnnotatedCodeofMaryland,thejudicial h appointeeneednotfileforthesameperiodoftimethestatement d requiredbyparagraphcofthisRule.  Ѐ... l Ѐg.(i)Ajudicialappointeewhofailstofileatimely h statement,orwhofilesanincompletestatement,shallbe  notifiedinwritingbytheStateCourtAdministrator,andgivena p  reasonabletime,nottoexceedtendays,withinwhichtocorrect !l" thedeficiency.Ifthedeficiencyhasnotbeencorrectedwithin "$ thetimeallowed,theStateCourtAdministratorshallreportthe t$& mattertothe Committeeon JudicialEthicsCommittee.  &p!( Ѐ(ii)IftheCommitteefinds,afterinquiry,thatfailingto '#* fileortheomissionofinformationwaseitherinadvertentorin x)$, goodfaithbeliefthattheomittedinformationwasnotrequired $+t&. tobedisclosed,theCommitteeshallgivethejudicialappointee , (0 areasonableperiod,nottoexceed15days,withinwhichto  correctthedeficiency.Otherwise,theCommitteeshallreferthe \ mattertotheStateEthicsCommission.If an ajudicial X appointeewhohasbeenallowedadditionaltimewithinwhichto   correctadeficiencyfailstodosowithinthattime,thematter `  shallalsobereferredtotheStateEthicsCommission.  \  Ѐ...   Source:ThisRuleisderivedfromformerRule1234andispart d  new. :  @hh#REPORTERSNOTE     AttherequestoftheJudicialCabinet,amendmentstoRule h 16816areproposedtorequirethatallmastersandDistrict > Courtcommissioners!whetherfullorparttime!filefinancial d disclosurestatements.Currently,aparttimemasteror : commissionerisrequiredtofileonlyifheorshemeetsthe  earningsrequirementssetforthinsectionaoftheRule.    Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15610(a)requiresthe B CourtofAppealstoadoptrulesthatrequiretheindividuals h listedin15601(b)tofileafinancialdisclosurestatement. > BecausethelatterCodesectionstatesthatjudicialappointees  aredefinedinRule16814,acrossreferencetoRule16816ais  proposedtobeaddedfollowingthedefinitionofjudicial p  appointeeintheTerminologysectionofRule16814. F !   Inaddition,acrossreferencetotheTerminologysectionof !B# Rule16814isproposedtobeaddedfollowingsectionaofRule "$ 16816. #%   J% ' @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @APPENDIX:THEMARYLANDRULESOFPROFESSIONALCONDUCT \ @  &ADVOCATE X   AMENDRule3.5toaddanewsubsection(a)(8)prohibiting   certaindiscussionsofpotentialemploymentofajudgeunder 6   certaincircumstancesandtocorrectacertainreferenceinthe  2  Comment,asfollows:   Rule3.5.IMPARTIALITYANDDECORUMOFTHETRIBUNAL `  Ӏ(a)Alawyershallnot:  Ѐ(1)seektoinfluenceajudge,juror,prospectivejuror,or > otherofficialbymeansprohibitedbylaw; : Ѐ(2)beforethetrialofacasewithwhichthelawyeris  connected,communicateoutsidethecourseofofficialproceedings B withanyoneknowntothelawyertobeonthelistfromwhichthe > jurorswillbeselectedforthetrialofthecase;  Ѐ(3)duringthetrialofacasewithwhichthelawyeris F ! connected,communicateoutsidethecourseofofficialproceedings !B# withanymemberofthejury; #% Ѐ(4)duringthetrialofacasewithwhichthelawyerisnot J% ' connected,communicateoutsidethecourseofofficialproceedings &F") withanymemberofthejuryaboutthecase; (#+ Ѐ(5)afterdischargeofajuryfromfurtherconsiderationofa N*%- casewithwhichthelawyerisconnected,askquestionsoformake +J'/ commentstoamemberofthatjurythatarecalculatedtoharass -(1 orembarrassthejurorortoinfluencethejuror'sactionsin  futurejuryservice; \ Ѐ(6)conductavexatiousorharassinginvestigationofany X jurororprospectivejuror;   Ѐ(7)communicateexparteaboutanadversaryproceedingwith `  thejudgeorotherofficialbeforewhomtheproceedingis  \  pending,exceptaspermittedbylaw; or    Ѐ(8)discusswithajudgepotentialemploymentofthejudgeif d  thelawyerorafirmwithwhichthelawyerisassociatedhasa `  matterthatispendingbeforethejudge;or   Ѐ (8) (9)engageinconductintendedtodisruptatribunal. h Ѐ(b)Alawyerwhohasknowledgeofanyviolationofsection(a) d ofthisRule,anyimproperconductbyajurororprospective  juror,oranyimproperconductbyanothertowardsajuroror l prospectivejuror,shallreportitpromptlytothecourtorother h appropriateauthority.  @HH'COMMENT p    Manyformsofimproperinfluenceuponatribunalare !l" proscribedbycriminallaw.OthersarespecifiedinRule16813, !B# theMaryland CanonsandRulesofJudicialEthics CodeofJudicial "$ Conduct,withwhichanadvocateshouldbefamiliar.Alawyeris #% requiredtoavoidcontributingtoaviolationofsuchprovisions. t$&   Theadvocate'sfunctionistopresentevidenceandargument &F") sothatthecausemaybedecidedaccordingtolaw.Refraining '#* fromabusiveorobstreperousconductisacorollaryofthe (#+ advocate'srighttospeakonbehalfoflitigants.Alawyermay x)$, standfirmagainstabusebyajudgebutshouldavoid N*%- reciprocation;thejudge'sdefaultisnojustificationfor $+t&. similarderelictionbyanadvocate.Anadvocatecanpresentthe +J'/ cause,protecttherecordforsubsequentreviewandpreserve , (0 professionalintegritybypatientfirmnessnolesseffectively -(1 thanbybelligerenceortheatrics.    Withregardtotheprohibitioninsubsection(a)(2)ofthis \ Ruleagainstcommunicationswithanyoneon"thelistfromwhich 2 thejurorswillbeselected,"seeRules2-512(c)and4-312(c) X oftheMarylandRulesofProcedure. . CodeComparison.WithregardtoRule3.5(a)and(b),DR7-108   (A)providesthat"beforethetrialofacasealawyer... `  shallnotcommunicatewith...anyoneheknowstobeamember 6   ofthevenire...."DR7-108(B)providesthat"duringthe  \  trialofacase...alawyer...shallnotcommunicatewith  2  ...ajurorconcerningthecase."DR7-109(C)providesthata   lawyershallnot"communicate...astothemeritsofthecause   withajudgeoranofficialbeforewhomtheproceedingispending d  except...uponadequatenoticetoopposingcounsel...(or) :  asotherwiseauthorizedbylaw." `    WithregardtoRule3.5 (a)(8) (a)(9),DR7-106(C)(6)   providesthatalawyershallnot"engageinundignifiedor  discourteousconductwhichisdegradingtoatribunal." h @hh#REPORTERSNOTE :   Lawyersoffersofemploymenttojudgeswasthesubjectof  HouseBill1398(crossfiledwithSenateBill875)inthe2002 l legislativesession.WhenHB1398waswithdrawnbyitssponsor, B thethoughtwasthatthistopiccouldbeaddressedbyrule, h ratherthanbylegislation. >   TheRulesCommitteerecommendsthatRule3.5oftheMaryland  [Lawyers]RulesofProfessionalConductbeamendedtoprohibita p  lawyerfromdiscussingpotentialemploymentofajudgebefore F ! whomthelawyerorthelawyersfirmhasapendingmatter.The !l" CommitteealsorecommendsanadditiontoCanon2Bofproposed !B# revisedRule16813,MarylandCodeofJudicialConduct,that "$ expresslymentionsemploymentoffersandopportunitiesand #% requiresthatthejudgenotallowjudicialconducttobe t$& improperlyinfluencedorappeartobeimproperlyinfluencedby J% ' suchoffersoropportunities.  &p!( XO#XXX  Additionally,areferenceintheCommentto Canonsand '#* RulesofJudicialEthicsisproposedtobecorrectedtoreferto (#+ Rule16813,theMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct.  N)$, #XXXXO##@ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @l l APPENDIXTHEMARYLANDRULESOF \ @<< PROFESSIONALCONDUCT X   AMENDRule8.2(b)andtheaccompanyingCommenttoconform `  themtocertainlanguageofproposedrevisedCanon5Bofthe  \  MarylandCodeofJudicialConductsetforthinRule16813,as   follows: d  Rule8.2.JUDICIALANDLEGALOFFICIALS 6 Ӏ(a)Alawyershallnotmakeastatementthatthelawyerknows h tobefalseorwithrecklessdisregardastoitstruthorfalsity d concerningthequalificationsorintegrityofajudge,  adjudicatoryofficerorpubliclegalofficer,orofacandidate l forelectionorappointmenttojudicialorlegaloffice. h Ѐ(b)Canon5C(4)oftheMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct,set  forthinRule16813,providesthatalawyerbecomesacandidate p  forajudicialofficewhenthelawyerfilesacertificateof !l" candidacyinaccordancewithMarylandelectionlaws,butno "$ earlierthantwoyearspriortothegeneralelectionforthe t$& office.Acandidateforajudicialoffice: positionshallnot  &p!( makeorsufferotherstomakeforhim,promisesofconductin '#* officewhichappealtothecupidityorprejudicesofthe x)$, appointingorelectingpower;heshallnotannounceinadvance $+t&. hisconclusionsoflawondisputedissuestosecure_class , (0 support,andheshalldonothingwhileacandidatetocreatethe  impressionthatifchosen,hewilladministerhisofficewith \ bias,partialityorimproperdiscrimination.  X Ѐ(1)shallmaintainthedignityappropriatetotheofficeand   actinamannerconsistentwiththeimpartiality,independence, `  andintegrityofthejudiciary;  h  Ѐ(2) withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethatis   likelytocomebeforethecourt,shallnotmakeacommitment, p  pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththeimpartial l  performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice;  Committeenote:Rule8.2(b)(2)doesnotprohibitacandidate t frommakingacommitment,pledge,orpromiserespecting J improvementsincourtadministrationorthefaithfuland &v impartialperformanceofthedutiesoftheoffice. L Ѐ(3)shallnotknowinglymisrepresenthisorheridentityor  qualifications,theidentityorqualificationsofanopponent,or T anyotherfact; P Ѐ(4)shallnotallowanyotherpersontodoforthecandidate  whatthecandidateisprohibitedfromdoing;andXO#XXX X ! Ѐ(5)mayrespondtoapersonalattackoranattackonthe "T# candidatesrecordaslongastheresponsedoesnototherwise #% violatethisRule. $%t ' @HH'COMMENT &")   Assessmentsbylawyersarereliedoninevaluatingthe D(#+ professionalorpersonalfitnessofpersonsbeingconsideredfor  )\$, electionorappointmenttojudicialofficeandtopubliclegal )$%- offices,suchasattorneygeneral,prosecutingattorneyand *%. publicdefender.Expressinghonestandcandidopinionsonsuch d+&/ matterscontributestoimprovingtheadministrationofjustice. ,,|'0 Conversely,falsestatementsbyalawyercanunfairlyundermine ,D(1 publicconfidenceintheadministrationofjustice. - )2 _ԇ  Tomaintainthefairandindependentadministrationof  justice,lawyersareencouragedtocontinuetraditionalefforts x todefendjudgesandcourtsunjustlycriticized. @ CodeComparison.!WithregardtoRule8.2(a),DR8-102(A)  providesthat"Alawyershallnotknowinglymakefalsestatements `  offactconcerningthequalificationsofacandidateforelection ( x orappointmenttoajudicialoffice."DR8-102(B)providesthat  @ "Alawyershallnotknowinglymakefalseaccusationsagainsta    judgeorotheradjudicatoryofficer."      Rule8.2(b)isidenticaltoCanonXXIXoftheCanonsand `  RulesofJudicialEthics,whichisapplicabletojudgeswhoare (  candidatesforjudicialoffice.AlthoughtheMaryland   DisciplinaryRuleshavenocounterparttoRule8.2(b),DR8-103 h  oftheModelCode,adoptedbytheABAaftertheCodewasadopted 0  inMaryland,isthesameasRule8.2(b)insubstance.  H    Rule8.2(b)hasnocounterpartinthe[former]Maryland  DisciplinaryRules. P @hh#REPORTERSNOTE    TheproposedamendmentstoRule8.2conformsection(b)to 8 theapplicablestandardspertainingtocandidatesforjudicial P office#XXXXO##XO#XXXԀsetforthinproposedrevisedCanon5BoftheMaryland  CodeofJudicialConductinRule16813.TheRulesCommittee  believesthattheprohibitionssetforthasCanon5B(1)(b)and X (1)(c)maynotbeconstitutionalasappliedtolawyerswhoare  p notjudges.Therefore,theseprohibitionshavenotbeenincluded 8 inRule8.2.   #XXXXO#X#  @" @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @TITLE4CRIMINALCAUSES \ @ CHAPTER300TRIALANDSENTENCING X    `      AMENDRule4327toamendacertaincrossreference,as   follows: 6   Rule4327.VERDICT!JURY   Ӏ... :  Crossreference:See Canon3A8of Rule16813, ( MarylandCode 6 ofJudicialConduct ) ,Canon3B(1),regardingpraiseorcriticism   ofajurysverdict.  Source:ThisRuleisderivedfromformerRule759. > @hh#REPORTERSNOTE    CrossreferencesthatfollowRules4327,5606,and17105 l areproposedtobeamendedtoconformtotherevisionofRules B 16813and16814. h    @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @!TITLE5EVIDENCE \ @CHAPTER600WITNESSES X   AMENDRule5605toamendacertaincrossreference,as   follows: 6   Rule5-605.COMPETENCYOFJUDGEASWITNESS   Ӏ... :  Crossreference:SeeRule16813,MarylandCodeofJudicial 6 Conduct,Canon 3C 3D(1)(a)and (1) (d)(iv).   Source:ThisRuleisderivedfromF.R.Ev.605. h @hh#REPORTERSNOTE :   SeetheReportersNotetoRule4327.    B @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X   AMENDRule16815tocorrectcertainterminologyin   subsectionf.1,asfollows: 6   Rule16815.FINANCIALDISCLOSURESTATEMENT   ̀... :  ̀f.FailuretoFileStatement-IncompleteStatement. 6 ̀1.Ajudgewhofailstofileatimelystatement,orwhofiles  anincompletestatement,shallbenotifiedinwritingbythe > StateCourtAdministrator,andgivenareasonabletime,notto : exceedtendays,withinwhichtocorrectthedeficiency.Ifthe  deficiencyhasnotbeencorrectedwithinthetimeallowed,the B StateCourtAdministratorshallreportthemattertothe >  Committeeon JudicialEthicsCommittee.  ̀... F ! @hh#REPORTERSNOTE "$   TheamendmenttoRule16815f.1isproposedtocorrectly t$& statethenameoftheJudicialEthicsCommittee.  J% ' @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @P P TITLE17ALTERNATIVEDISPUTERESOLUTION \ @  CHAPTER100PROCEEDINGSINCIRCUITCOURT X   AMENDRule17105toamendacertainCrossreference,as   follows: 6   Rule17105.QUALIFICATIONSANDSELECTIONOFPERSONSOTHERTHAN   MEDIATORSANDNEUTRALEXPERTS d  Ӏ... 6 Crossreference:SeeRule s 16-813,MarylandCodeofJudicial  Conduct,Canon 4H 4FandRule16-814,MarylandCodeofConduct h forJudicialAppointees,Canon 4H 4F. > Source:ThisRuleisnew. : @hh#REPORTERSNOTE l   SeetheReportersNotetoRule4327. h   >  @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X   AMENDRule16813,asfollows:   Rule16-813.MARYLANDCODEOFJUDICIALCONDUCT  \  @  &Preamble     Itisfundamentaltoourlegalsystemthatourlawsbe `  interpretedbyacompetent,fair,honorable,andindependent   judiciary.SuchajudiciaryisessentialtotheAmericanconcept h ofjustice.IntrinsictoallsectionsofthisCodearethe d preceptsthat,individuallyandcollectively,judgesmusthonor  andrespectthejudicialofficeasapublictrustandstriveto l enhanceandmaintainpublicconfidenceinourlegalsystem.A h judge,asarbiteroffactsandlawfortheresolutionof  disputes,isahighlyvisiblesymbolofgovernmentundertherule p  oflaw. !l"   ThisCodesetsforthbasicstandardsfortheconductofall "$ judgesandprovidesguidanceinestablishingandmaintaininghigh t$& standardsofjudicialandpersonalconduct.  &p!(   ThisCodeconsistsofaTerminologysection,Canons,which '#* setforthspecificrulesofconduct,andComments,whichprovide x)$, guidanceonthepurposeandmeaningoftheCanonsbutarenot $+t&. intendedasstatementsofadditionalrules. , (0   When shallor shallnotisusedinthetextofaCanon,  itisintendedtoimposeabindingobligation,theviolationof \ whichcanresultindisciplinaryaction.When shouldor X  shouldnotisused,thetextisintendedashortatoryandasa   statementofwhatisorisnotappropriateconductbutnotasa `  bindingobligationunderwhichajudgemaybedisciplined.When  \   mayisused,itdenotespermissiblediscretionor,dependingon   thecontext,referstoactionthatisnotcoveredbyspecific d  prohibitions. `    Evenastobindingobligations,however,itisnotintended   thateverytransgressionresultindisciplinaryaction.Whether h disciplinaryactionisappropriate,andthedegreeofdiscipline d tobeimposed,shoulddependonfactorssuchastheseriousness  ofthetransgression,whetherthetransgressionisisolatedor l partofapatternofimproperactivity,andtheeffectofthe h improperactivityonothersoronthejudicialsystem.    TheCanonsarerulesofreasonthatshouldbeappliedinthe p  contextofallrelevantcircumstancesandinamannerthatis !l" consistentwithconstitutionalrequirements,statutes,other "$ courtrules,anddecisionallaw.ThisCodeshouldbeconstrued t$& inawaythatneitherinfringesontheessentialindependenceof  &p!( judgesinmakingjudicialdecisionsnordiscouragescandidates '#* fromseekingjudicialoffice. x)$,   ThisCodeincludesastructureforregulatingconduct $+t&. throughdisciplinaryagencies,whenappropriate.Itisnot , (0 intendedtobeabasisforcivilliabilityorcriminal  prosecution.ThisCodeshouldnotbeinvokedformeretactical \ advantageinaproceeding. X   IninterpretingthisCode,attentionshouldbegiventothe   opinionsoftheJudicialEthicsCommitteeand,ifappropriate, `  theCommitteeshouldbeaskedforawrittenletterofadviceora  \  bindingopinion.   Committeenote:ThisCodereplacestheMarylandCodeofJudicial d  ConductoriginallyadoptedbyRulesOrderdatedNovember21, :  1986,effectiveJuly1,1987,asamendedfromtimetotime `  ( MarylandCode(1987)).ThisCodeisderivedfromtheMaryland 6 Code(1987)andtheModelCodeofJudicialConductadoptedbythe   AmericanBarAssociationin2000,withamendmentsinAugust2003.  ThederivationofparticularprovisionsofthisCodeisdescribed h ingreaterdetailintheSourceNoteattheendofthisCode. >   TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehaspublishedopinionson : issuessuchasajudgeowningcommercialrealestate(permissible  onlyifnoappearanceofimproprietywouldresult),acceptingan  expensepaidtrip,andgrantingastetorprobationconditioned l onacriminaldefendantmakingamonetarydonation. B AdministrativeOrdersoftheChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppeals h alsomayprovideguidance.Forexample,astotheantinepotism > policyoftheJudicialBranch,seetheOrdersdatedOctober3,  1996andJanuary31,1997.    !B# @XX%Terminology    Termsexplainedbelowarenotedinboldfacetypeinthe \ CanonsandCommentswheretheyappear. 8   InthisCodethefollowingdefinitionsapplyexceptas   expresslyotherwiseprovidedorasnecessaryimplication l  requires:  h  Ѐ(a)Fiduciary       Fiduciary includesadministrator,attorneyinfactby p  powerofattorney,executor,guardian,personalrepresentative, 8  andtrustee. 4 Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and(2)and4E.Fora  definitionof guardian,seeRule1202(j). f Ӏ(b)Gift b     Gift hasthemeaningstatedinCode,StateGovernment  Article,15102.  Crossreference:SeeCanon4D(5). 2 Ӏ(c)Honorarium .     Honorarium hasthemeaningstatedinCode,State  ! GovernmentArticle,15102. R"# Ѐ(d)Impartial,Impartiality,orImpartially #N%     Impartial ,  impartiality ,or  impartially denotes % ' absenceofbiasorprejudiceinfavorof,oragainst,apartyor r'") classofparties,aswellasmaintaininganopenmindin )n$+ consideringeachissuethatisormaycomebeforethejudge. *&- Crossreference:SeeCanons2A;3A,B(9),andD(1);4A(1); v,'/ and5B(1)(a)and(d). L-(0  ".r)1 @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion   Ѐ (e)Knowingly,Knowledge,Known,orKnows x    Knowingly, knowledge, known,or knowsmeansactual @ knowledgeofthefactinquestion.Actualknowledgemaybe  X inferredfromcircumstances.   Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and    (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e). |  @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion   \  Ѐ (e)Know  $    Knowmeanstohaveactualknowledgeofthefactin  question,asmaybeinferredfromcircumstances. d Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and ,| (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).  ` Ӏ(f)MemberofJudgesFamily      Memberofthejudgesfamily meansaspouse,child, v grandchild,parent,grandparent,orotherrelativeorindividual > withwhomajudgemaintainsaclosefamilialrelationship.  :  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and4E(1)(b)and(d)and "" G(1). l## Ӏ(g)MemberofJudgesHousehold %h %     Memberofthejudgeshousehold hasthemeaningstated &"' inCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102for memberof (#) household. 8*%+ Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(2)and4D(5). +4'- Ѐ(h)PoliticalOrganization -(/     Politicalorganization meansapoliticalpartyorother  group,theprincipalpurposeofwhichistofurthertheelection x orappointmentofacandidatetopoliticaloffice. $t Crossreference:SeeCanon5B(1)(b)and(c).   Ѐ(i)Require |      Require, inthecontextthatajudge  require certain ( x  conductofothers,meansthatthejudgeistotakereasonable @  stepstodirectandcontroltheconductofthosepersons.   Crossreference:SeeCanon3B(3),(5),(8),and(11)andC(2). H  Ӏ(j)SignificantFinancialInterest D @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  L  򀀀(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeansownershipof: d Ѐ(A)aninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhas , receivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrentlyreceiving,or  inthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear; l Ѐ(B)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or 4     (C)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris !L" convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.  #$ @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  8'"(  򀀀(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeans: )P$*   (A)ownershipofaninterestastheresultofwhichthe *&, ownerhasreceivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrently ,'. receiving,orinthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan  $1,000peryear;or x Ѐ(B)ownershipbyajudgeorjudgesspouseof: @   (i)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or  X   (ii)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris   convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.     ̀(2)Inapplyingthisdefinition:  \  Ѐ(A)ownershipofaninterestinamutualorcommon  investmentfundthatholdsasecurityisnotownershipofthe d securityunless: ` Ѐ(i)thejudge [AlternativeBAdd: orspousehere]    participatesinthemanagementofthefund;or  Ѐ(ii)thereisbeforethejudgeaproceedingthatcould 0 substantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest,orsuch , proceedingisimminent;  Ѐ(B)ownershipofagovernmentsecurityisnota significant 4   financialinterest intheissuerunlessthereisbeforethejudge !L" aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthe #$ security,orsuchproceedingisimminent; p% & Ѐ(C)neitheradepositinafinancialinstitutionnora 'l"( proprietaryinterestsuchasorsimilartothatofadepositorin ($* amutualsavingsassociation,memberinacreditunion,orpolicy t*%, holderinamutualinsurancecompanyisa significantfinancial  ,p'. interest intheentityunlessthereisbeforethejudgea -8)0 proceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthe  depositorinterest,orsuchproceedingisimminent;and \ Ѐ(D)anownershipinterestinasecurityheldbya X charitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,or   religiousorganizationwillnotbeimputedtoajudgemerely `  becausethejudgeorthejudgeschild,parent,orspouseisan  \  advisertoordirectororofficerof,orotherwiseactively   participatesin,theorganization. d  Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(c)and(d)(iii). `  Ѐ(k)ThirdDegreeofRelationship       Thirddegreeofrelationship meanstherelationship h betweenajudgeandthefollowingindividuals:agreat 0 grandparent,grandparent,parent,uncle,aunt,brother,sister, , child,grandchild,greatgrandchild,nephew,orniece.  Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(d). 4     @HH'CANON1  @ IntegrityandIndependenceoftheJudiciary 2   Anindependentandhonorablejudiciaryisindispensableto   justiceinoursociety.Ajudge should shallobservehigh 6   standardsofconductsothattheintegrityandindependenceof  2  thejudiciary may willbepreserved.TheprovisionsofthisCode    should aretobeconstruedandappliedtofurtherthatobjective. :   Committeenote.TheAmericanBarAssociationModelCodeof 6 JudicialConduct( ABACode")statesthatajudgeshould    participateinestablishing,maintaining,andenforcing,and  shouldhimself"observe,highstandardsofconductsothatthe h integrityandindependenceofthejudiciarymaybepreserved. > TheCommitteebelievesthateventhoughdesirable,ajudgeshould d notbeobligatedtoparticipatein"establishing"standardsof : conduct. Maintainingand enforcing"highstandardsofconduct  aredealtwithinCanon3B(3).   ̀̀@HH'COMMENT h   Deferencetothejudgmentsandrulingsofcourtsdepends  uponpublicconfidenceintheintegrityandindependenceof  judges.Theintegrityandindependenceofjudgesdependinturn p  upontheiractingwithoutfearorfavor.Ajudiciaryof F ! integrityisoneinwhichjudgesareknownfortheirfairness, !l" honesty,probity,soundnessofcharacter,anduprightness.An !B# independentjudiciaryisonefreeofinappropriateoutside "$ influence.Althoughjudgesshouldbeindependent,theymust #% complywiththelaw,includingtheprovisionsofthisCode. t$& Publicconfidenceinthe impartiality ofthejudiciaryis J% ' maintainedbytheadherenceofeachjudgetothisresponsibility. .&~!( Conversely,violationofthisCodediminishespublicconfidence 'T") inthejudiciaryandtherebydoesinjurytothesystemof '*#* governmentunderlaw. ($+   ,.(0 @HH'CANON2  @TT AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety 2 A.Ajudge shouldbehavewithpropriety shallavoidimpropriety   and shouldavoideven theappearanceofimpropriety.Ajudge 6    should shallrespectandcomplywiththelawand should shallact  2  atalltimesinamannerthatpromotespublicconfidenceinthe    integrityand impartiality andintegrityofthejudiciary. The :  personalbehaviorofajudgeinboththeperformanceofjudicial R duties,andineverydaylife,shouldbebeyondreproach.   @HH'COMMENT 0   Publicconfidenceinthejudiciaryiserodedbyirresponsi , bleorimproperconductbyjudges.Ajudgemustexpecttobethe  subjectofconstantpublicscrutiny.Ajudgemusttherefore  acceptrestrictionsonhisorherconductthatmightbeviewedas ^ burdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyand 4 willingly.Examplesaretherestrictionsonajudgesspeech  Z imposedbyCanon3B(8)and(9)thatareindispensabletothe 0 maintenanceofthe impartiality ,independence,andintegrityof  thejudiciary.     Thetestimonyofajudgeasacharacterwitnessinjectsthe F!" prestigeofjudicialofficeintotheproceedinginwhichajudge "l# testifiesandmaybemisunderstoodtobeanofficialtestimonial. "B$ ThisCanon,however,doesnotaffordajudgetheprivilege #% againsttestifyinginresponsetoanofficialsummons.  $&   Theobligationtoavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceof J&!( improprietyappliestoboththeprofessionalandpersonalconduct  'p") ofajudge.Becauseitisnotpracticabletolistallprohibited 'F#* acts,theobligationisnecessarilycastingeneraltermsthat ($+ extendtoconductbyjudgesthatisharmfulalthoughnot )$, specificallymentionedinthisCode.Actualimproprietiesunder x*%- thisstandardincludeviolationsoflaw,otherspecific N+&. provisionsofthisCode,orothercourtrules.Thetestfor $,t'/ appearanceofimproprietyiswhethertheconductwouldcreatein ,J(0 reasonablemindsaperceptionthatthejudgesabilitytocarry - )1 outjudicialresponsibilitieswithcompetence, impartiality ,and  integrityisimpaired.SeealsotheCommenttoCanon2C.  B.Ajudge should shallnotallowjudicialconducttobe < improperlyinfluencedorappeartobeimproperlyinfluencedbya   family,political,social,orother relationships relationshipor D   byanemploymentofferoropportunity.Ajudge should shallnot  @  lendorusetheprestigeofjudicialofficetoadvancethe   privateinterestsofthejudgeorothers;nor should shalla H  judgeconveyorpermitotherstoconveytheimpressionthatthey D areinaspecialpositiontoinfluencejudicialconduct.Ajudge   should shallnottestifyvoluntarilyasacharacterwitness. L  Committeenote.ThefirstandthirdsentencesofSec.2Aare H derivedfromcurrentMd.CanonIV.ABACanon2relegatesthe  firstsentenceofSection2AtoCommentary;buttheCommittee  believesthatitissufficientlyimportanttoretainitsstatus z aspartoftheCanon.ThesecondsentenceofSec.2Aisderived P fromABACanon2A.  &v   Thefirstsentenceandthesecondclauseofthesecond " sentenceofSection2BarederivedfromABACanon2Bandcurrent  Md.CanonXXXII.ThefirstclauseofthesecondsentenceofSec. ~  2BisderivedfromABACanon2Bandprohibitsajudgefrom T ! advancingthe"privateinterests"ofothers,whilecurrentMd. *!z" EthicsRule9appliestheprohibitiononlyto"privatebusiness "P# interests"ofothers,whichissomewhatnarrowerinscope.The "&$ broaderprohibitorylanguageintheABACanonisnotmeantto #% precludeajudgefromwritingaletterofrecommendationorthe $& likeunderappropriatecircumstances,asdiscussedinMd. X% ' JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.98(issued7/16/82).  .&~!(   ThelastsentenceofSec.2BisderivedfromABACanon2B '*#* andcurrentMd.CanonXIII.  ($+   ThefirstparagraphoftheCommentaryisderivedfroma \*%- CommentarytoABASection2AofCanon2.  2+&.   ThelastparagraphoftheCommentaryisderivedfroma ,.(0 CommentarytoABACanon2andisconsistentwithMd.Judicial -)1 EthicsOpinionNo.31(issued5/7/75).   @HH'COMMENT 2   Maintainingtheprestigeofjudicialofficeisessentialto . asystemofgovernmentinwhichthejudiciaryfunctions   independentlyoftheexecutiveandlegislativebranches.Respect   forthejudicialofficefacilitatestheorderlyconductof `  legitimatejudicialfunctions.Judgesshoulddistinguishbetween 6   properandimproperuseoftheprestigeofofficeinalloftheir  \  activities.Forexample,itwouldbeimproperforajudgeto  2  alludetohisorherjudgeshiptogainapersonaladvantage,such   asdeferentialtreatmentwhenstoppedbyapoliceofficerfora   trafficoffense.Similarly,judicialletterheadmustnotbeused d  forconductingajudgespersonalbusiness. :    Ajudgealsomustavoidlendingorusingtheprestigeof 6 judicialofficefortheadvancementoftheprivateinterestsof   others.Forexample,ajudgemustnotusethejudgesjudicial  positiontogainadvantageinacivilsuitinvolvinga memberof h thejudgesfamily .Astotheacceptanceofawards,seeCanon4D L (5)(c)andtheaccompanyingComment. 0   Althoughajudgeshouldbesensitivetopossibleabuseof , theprestigeofoffice,ajudgemayserveasareferenceor  providealetterofrecommendationbasedonthejudgesown   knowledge .Ajudgemustnotinitiate,however,apersonal ^ communicationofinformationtoasentencingjudgeora B correctionsorprobationofficerbutmayprovidetosuch h officialsinformationfortherecordinresponsetoaformal > request.    Judgesmayparticipateintheprocessofjudicialselection p ! bycooperatingwithappointingauthoritiesandscreening F!" committeesseekingnamesforconsideration. "l#   Ajudgemustnottestifyvoluntarilyasacharacterwitness #% becausetodosomaylendtheprestigeofjudicialofficein $& supportofthepartyforwhomthejudgetestifies.Ajudgemay, t% ' however,testifywhenproperlysubpoenaed. J&!( Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehasheldthata 'F#* judgesjudicialandnonjudicialactivitiesshouldnotraise ($+ questionsastoimproperfavoritism,partiality,orinfluencedue )$, tofamilialorsocialconnections,indebtedness(suchasmight x*%- arisethroughreferralofbusinesstofamilyorfriend), N+&. politicalendorsement,acceptanceofgifts,fundraising,or $,t'/ entrepreneurialactivities. ,J(0  - )1 ЇC.Ajudgeshallnotholdmembershipinanyorganizationthat  practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnational \ origin,race,religion,orsex ,religionornationalorigin . X @HH'COMMENT   ̀Membershipofajudgeinanorganizationthatpractices 6   invidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnationalorigin,race,  \  religion,orsex ,religionornationaloriginmaygive givesrise  2  toperceptionsthatthejudge's impartiality isimpaired.Itis   thereforeinappropriateforajudgetocontinuetohold   membershipinanorganizationthatthejudge knows ,orreasonably r  should know ,practicesandwillcontinuetopracticesuch V  invidiousdiscriminationsoastogiverisetotheperception :  thatthejudge's impartiality isimpaired.Membershipinan ` organizationwouldnotbeprohibitedunlessthatmembershipwould D reasonablygiverisetoaperceptionofpartiality.Certain  organizations!suchascongregationalbrotherhoods,sisterhoods,  orbowlingleagues!maywellberestrictedtoindividuals v belongingtotheparticularcongregationandthereforetothose L sharingaparticularreligiousbelief,butitisunlikelythat "r membershipinsuchanorganizationwouldcausepeoplereasonably H tobelievethatthejudgeispartial.    Whetheranorganizationpracticesandwillcontinueto z practicethatkindofinvidiousdiscriminationisoftenacomplex P questiontowhichjudgesshouldbesensitive.Theanswercannot &v bedeterminedmerelyfromanexaminationofanorganization's L currentmembershiprollsbutmaydependon(1)thenatureand " purposeoftheorganization,(2)anyrestrictionsonmembership,   (3)thehistoryoftheorganization'sselectionofmembers,and ~ ! (4)otherrelevantfactorssuchasthattheorganizationis T!" dedicatedtothepreservationofcultural,ethnic,orreligious , *"z# ethnicorcultural valuesoflegitimatecommon interests interest #P$ toitsmembers,orthatitis,infactandeffect,anintimate, #&% purelyprivateorganizationwhosemembershiplimitationscould $& notbeconstitutionallyprohibited.Absentsuchfactors,an % ' organizationisgenerallysaidtodiscriminateinvidiouslyifit X&!( arbitrarilyexcludesfrommembership,onthebasisofnational .'~") origin,race,religion,orsex ornationaloriginpersons , (T#* individualswho would otherwisewouldbeadmittedtomembership. (*$+  SeeNewYorkStateClubAss'n.Inc.v.CityofNewYork,108S. )%, Ct.2225,101L.Ed.2d1(1988);BoardofDirectorsofRotary *%- Internationalv.RotaryClubofDuarte,481U.S.537,107S.Ct. h+&. 1940(1987),95L.Ed.2d474;Robertsv.UnitedStatesJaycees, D,'/ 468U.S.609,104S.Ct.3244,82L.Ed.2d462(1984).   -p(0  -F)1   Although Section Canon2Crelatesonlytomembershipin  organizationsthatinvidiouslydiscriminateonthebasisof  nationalorigin,race, sex, religion,or nationalorigin, sex,a \ judge'smembershipinanorganizationthatengagesinany 2 discriminatorymembershippracticesprohibitedbythelawofthe X jurisdictionalsoviolatesCanon2A andSection2A andgivesthe . appearanceofimpropriety.Inaddition,itwouldbeaviolation   ofCanon2 andSection2A forajudgetoarrangeameetingata   clubthatthejudge knows practicesinvidiousdiscriminationon `  thebasisofnationalorigin,race, sex, religion ornational D   origin ,orsex,initsmembershiporotherpolicies,orforthe  j  judgeto regularly usesuch a clubregularly.Moreover,public  @  manifestationbyajudgeofthejudge's knowing approvalof   invidiousdiscriminationonanybasisgivestheappearanceof   improprietyunderCanon2anddiminishespublicconfidenceinthe    integrityand impartiality andintegrityofthejudiciary,in V  violationof Section Canon2A. :    Whena personwhoisa judge onthedatethiscodebecomes 6 effective learnsthatanorganizationtowhichthejudgebelongs   engagesininvidiousdiscriminationthatwouldpreclude  membershipunder Section Canon2CorunderCanon2A andSection h 2A ,thejudgeispermitted,inlieuofresigning,tomake > immediateeffortstohavetheorganizationdiscontinueits d invidiouslydiscriminatorypractices,butisrequiredtosuspend : participationin any allotheractivitiesoftheorganization.  Iftheorganizationfailstodiscontinueitsinvidiously  discriminatorypracticesaspromptlyaspossible(andinall l eventswithintwoyearsofthejudge'sfirstlearningofthe B practices),thejudgeisrequiredtoresignimmediatelyfromthe h organization. >  Committeenote.Aftercarefulconsideration,theCommittee   decidedtomakemembershipinorganizationsthatpractice p ! invidiousdiscriminationaviolationoftheCode.NewSection2C F!" movestoblack-lettertextaprinciplethathadbeeninthe "l# CommentarytoCanon2ofthe1989Code.Itwasdeterminedthat "B$ itwasneitherappropriatenorworkabletoleavetoeach #% individualjudge'sconsciencethedeterminationwhetheran $& organizationpracticesinvidiousdiscrimination,andthis t% ' discretionarystandardwasremovedfromtheCommentary.  J&!(   TheCommentaryincorporatesmostoftheCommentarytoABA 'F#* Section2CofCanon2.Thesecondsentenceofthefirst ($+ paragraphisderivedfromtheCommentarytocurrentMd.Canon2B )$, andhasbeenretainedtomakeclearthatmembershipinan x*%- organizationwouldnotbeprohibitiveunlessthatmembership N+&. wouldreasonablygiverisetoaperceptionofpartiality.Certain $,t'/ organizations-suchascongregationalbrotherhoods,sisterhoods, ,J(0 bowlingleagues,etc.-maywellberestrictedtopersons - )1 belongingtotheparticularcongregationandthereforetothose  sharingaparticularreligiousbelief,butitishardlylikely  thatmembershipinsuchanorganizationwouldcausepeople \ reasonablytobelievethatthejudgeispartial.  2 !OY  `  @HH'CANON3  @ ImpartialandDiligent PerformanceofJudicialDuties 2   Intheperformanceofjudicialduties,thefollowing   standardsapply : . `  A.GENERALRESPONSIBILITIES.     Ajudgeshallperformthedutiesofjudicialoffice d  diligently, impartially ,andwithouthavingormanifestingbias `  orprejudice,includingbiasorprejudicebasedonage, ( disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual  orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus. 0 @HH'COMMENT    Ajudgemustperformjudicialdutiesfairlyand impartially . ^ Ajudgewhomanifestsbiasofanykindinaproceedingimpairs B thefairnessoftheproceedingandbringsthejudiciaryinto h disrepute.Facialexpressionandbodylanguage,inadditionto > oralcommunication,cangiveanappearanceofjudicialbias.A  judgemustbealerttoavoidbehaviorthatmaybeperceivedas   prejudicial.Forexample,ajudgemustrefrainfromcomment, p ! gesture,orotherconductthatcouldreasonablybeperceivedas F!" sexualharassment. "l#  A. B.ADJUDICATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. t% ' Ѐ J&!(   (1)Ajudge should shallbefaithfultothelawandmaintain  'p") professionalcompetenceinit. ($+   (2)Ajudge shouldbeunswayed shallnotbeswayedby x*%- partisaninterests,publicclamor,orfearofcriticism. $,t'/   (3)Ajudge shouldmaintain shall require orderanddecorum - )1 inproceedingsbeforethejudge.    (4)Ajudgeshallbedignified. \   (4) (5)Ajudge shouldbe shallbecourteoustoandpatient , X dignified,andcourteoustolitigants,jurors,witnesses,   lawyers, withjurors,lawyers,litigants,witnesses,andothers `  withwhomthejudgedealsinanofficialcapacityand should   \  shall require similarconductoflawyers , andof staff, court   officials,staff,andotherssubjecttothejudge'sdirectionand   control. ,|  @*@HH'COMMENT    Thedutytohearallproceedingsfairlyandwithpatienceis Z notinconsistentwiththedutytodisposepromptlyofthe 0 businessofthecourt.Judgescanbebusinesslikeandefficient V whilebeingdeliberateandpatient. ,   (5) (6)(a)Ajudge should shallaccordtoeverypersonwho   islegallyinterestedinproceedings, hasalegalinterestina 4 proceedingpendingbeforethejudge,or the thatpersonslawyer, 0  full therighttobeheardaccordingtolaw. ,and,exceptas   authorizedbylaw,  8!" Ѐ(b)Whilepresidingoveraproceeding,ajudgeshall "4$ neitherinitiate nor ,permit,orconsiderexparte orother  $& communicationsnorconsiderothercommunicationsmadetothe H&!( judgeoutsidethepresenceofthepartiesconcerningapendingor 'D#* impendingproceeding,exceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon3B )$, (6). Ajudge,however,mayobtaintheadviceofadisinterested L+&. expertonthelawapplicabletoaproceedingbeforethejudgeif ,H(0 thejudgegivesnoticetothepartiesofthenameoftheperson  consultedandthesubstanceoftheadvice,andaffordsthe \ partiesreasonableopportunitytorespond.  X   (c)Expartecommunicationsthatrelatetoschedulingor   otheradministrativepurposesoremergenciesandnotto l  substantivemattersorissuesonthemeritsareauthorized,if:  h  (i)circumstancesrequire;(ii)thejudgereasonablybelieves   thatnopartywillgainaproceduralortacticaladvantageasa p  resultofthecommunication;(iii)thejudgemakesprovision l  promptlytonotifyallotherpartiesastothesubstanceofthe  expartecommunication;and(iv)thejudgeaffordstheparties t reasonableopportunitytorespond. ,|   (d)Withtheconsentoftheparties,ajudgemayconfer ( separatelywiththepartiesandtheirlawyersinaneffortto  mediateorsettlematterspendingbeforethejudge. 0   (e)Ajudgemayobtaintheadviceofadisinterestedexpert , onthelawapplicabletoaproceedingifthejudge:(i)makes   provisionpromptlytonotifyallofthepartiesastotheexpert 4!" consultedandthesubstanceoftheadvice;and(ii)affordsthe "0$ partiesreasonableopportunitytorespond. $&   (f)Ajudgemayconsultwithcourtpersonnelwhosefunction 8&!( istoaidthejudgeincarryingoutthejudgesadjudicative '4#* responsibilitiesandwithotherjudges. )$,   (g)Ajudgemayinitiateorconsideranexparte <+&. communicationwhenexpresslyauthorizedbylawtodoso. ,D(0 Ї@HH'COMMENT    The proscription prohibitionagainstcommunications \ concerningaproceedingincludescommunicationsfromlawyers,law 2 teachers,andotherpersonswhoarenotparticipantsinthe X proceeding,excepttothelimitedextentpermitted. Itdoesnot . precludeajudgefromconsultingwithotherjudges,orwithcourt   personnelwhosefunctionistoaidthejudgeincarryingout   adjudicativeresponsibilities.  `    Totheextentpracticable,allpartiesortheirlawyersmust  \  beincludedincommunicationswithajudge.  2    WheneverCanon3B(6)requiresthepresenceof,ornotice   to,aparty,itisthepartyslawyeror,ifthepartyis d  unrepresented,thepartywhoistobepresentortowhomnotice :  istobegiven. `    Anappropriateandoftendesirableprocedureforacourtto   obtaintheadviceofadisinterestedexpertonlegalissuesisto  invitetheexperttofileabriefamicuscuriae. h   Canon3B(6)allowsforlimitedexpartecommunicationto j facilitateschedulingandotheradministrativepurposesandto F accommodateemergencies.Eventhen,however,ajudgemust  discourageexpartecommunicationandallowitonlyifallofthe  criteriastatedinCanon3B(6)clearlyaremet.Ajudgemust ~ disclosetoallpartiesallexpartecommunicationdescribedin T Canon3B(6)(c)and(e)regardingaproceedingpendingor 0 impendingbeforethejudge. V   Ajudgemustnotindependentlyinvestigatefactsinacase  andmustconsideronlytheevidencepresented,exceptmattersof   whichthecourtproperlycantakejudicialnotice. ^ !   Ajudgemayrequestapartytosubmitproposedfindingsof  "Z# factandconclusionsoflawifalloftheotherpartiesare "0$ apprisedoftherequestandgivenanopportunitytorespondto #% theproposedfindingsandconclusions. $&   Ajudgemustmakereasonableefforts,includingthe 8&!( provisionofappropriatesupervision,toensurethatCanon3B(6) '^") isnotviolatedthroughlawclerksorotherpersonnelonthe '4#* judgesstaff. ( $+   Ifcommunicationbetweenatrialjudgeandappellatecourt f*%- withrespecttoaproceedingispermitted,acopyofallwritten <+&. communicationsandthesubstanceofalloralcommunications ,b'/ shouldbeprovidedtoallparties. ,8(0  -)1 Ї  (6) (7)Ajudge should shalldispose promptly ofthe  businessofthecourtefficiently,fairly,andpromptly. \ @HH'COMMENT .   Promptdispositionofthecourt'sbusinessrequiresajudge   todevoteadequatetimetojudicialduties,tobepunctualin `  attendingcourtandexpeditiousindeterminingmattersunder 6   submission,andtoinsistthatcourtofficials , andlitigantsand  \  theirlawyerscooperatetothatend.  2    (7) (8)Ajudge should shallabstainfrompubliccomment    abouta thatrelatestoaproceedingpendingorimpending :   proceeding inanycourt , and should thatmightreasonablybe 6 expectedtoaffecttheoutcomeofthatproceedingortoimpair  thefairnessofthatproceedingandshall require similar > abstentiononthepartofcourtpersonnelsubjecttothejudge's V directionandcontrol. Thissubsection Canon3B(8)doesnot  prohibitajudgefrommakingpublicstatementsinthecourseof ^ officialdutiesorfromexplainingforpublicinformationthe  Z proceduresofthecourt.  @HH'COMMENT b !   "Courtpersonnel"doesnotincludethelawyersina "^# proceedingbeforeajudge.Theconductoflawyersinthisregard "4$ isgovernedbyRule3.6oftheMaryland[Lawyers']Rulesof # % ProfessionalConduct. $&   (9)Withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethatis 'b") likelytocomebeforethecourt,ajudgeshallnotmakea ($+ commitment,pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththe j*%-  impartial performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice. ,f'/  -.)1 !OY ! !  @HH'COMMENT    Canon3B(8)and(9)restrictionsonajudgesspeechare \ essentialtothemaintenanceofthe impartiality ,independence, 2 andintegrityofthejudiciary.Apendingproceedingisonethat f hasbegunbutnotyetreachedfinaldisposition.Animpending < proceedingisonethatisanticipatedbutnotyetbegun.The   requirementthatajudgeabstainfrompubliccommentregardinga   pendingorimpendingproceedingcontinuesduringanyappellate n  processanduntilfinaldisposition. D     (8) (10)Attheconclusionofajurytrial,thejudge should  @  neither shallnotcommunicatetothejurythejudgespraise nor   criticize orcriticismoftheverdictbutmaythankthejurors H  fortheirpublicservice. D @HH'COMMENT v   Commendingorcriticizingjurorsfortheirverdictmayimply "r ajudicialexpectationinfuturecasesandmayimpairajurors H abilitytobefairand impartial inasubsequentcase.    (9) (11)Ajudgeshall performjudicialdutieswithout    require lawyersinproceedingsbeforethejudgetorefrainfrom 4 manifesting,bywordorconduct,biasorprejudice .Ajudge L shallnot,intheperformanceofjudicialduties,bywordsor   conductmanifestbiasorprejudice,includingbutnotlimitedto T!" biasorprejudicebaseduponrace,sex,religion,national #P$ origin,disability,age,sexualorientationorsocioeconomic $& status,andshallnotpermitstaff,courtofficialsandothers X&!( subjecttothejudge'sdirectionandcontroltodoso. based (T#* uponage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex, )%, sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.Canon3B(11)does \+&. notprecludelegitimateadvocacywhensuchstatusorother -X(0 similarfactorisanissueinaproceeding.  @HH' COMMENT  2 ̀ Ajudgemustrefrainfromspeech,gesturesorother . conductthatcouldreasonablybeperceivedassexualharassment   andmustrequirethesamestandardofconductofotherssubject   tothejudge'sdirectionandcontrol.  `  Ѐ 6     Ajudgemustperformjudicialdutiesimpartiallyandfairly.  \  Ajudgewhomanifestsbiasonanybasisinaproceedingimpairs  2  thefairnessoftheproceedingandbringsthejudiciaryinto   disrepute.Facialexpressionandbodylanguage,inadditionto   oralcommunication,cangivetopartiesorlawyersinthe d  proceeding,jurors,themediaandothersanappearanceof :  judicialbias.Ajudgemustbealerttoavoidbehaviorthatmay `  beperceivedasprejudicial.  6 Ӏ (10)Ajudgeshallrequirelawyersinproceedingsbeforethe  judgetorefrainfrommanifesting,bywordsorconduct,biasor > prejudicebaseduponrace,sex,religion,nationalorigin, : disability,age,sexualorientationorsocioeconomicstatus,  againstparties,witnesses,counselorothers.ThisSection3B B (10)doesnotprecludelegitimateadvocacywhenrace,sex, > religion,nationalorigin,disability,age,sexualorientationor  socioeconomicstatus,orothersimilarfactors,areissuesinthe F ! proceeding.  !B#   (12)Unlessrecusalisappropriate,ajudgeshallhearand #% decidemattersassignedtothejudge. J% ' Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000 &F") oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties '#* for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment (#+ officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle, x)$, 15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions N*%- governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, $+t&. StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords) +J'/ andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). , (0  -(1 Ї Committeenote.Secs.3A(1)and(2)arederivedfromABACanon  3A(1)andcurrentMd.CanonXIV.     Sec.3A(3)isderivedfromABACanon3A(2)andcurrent 2 Md.CanonXV.  X   Sec.3A(4)isderivedfromABACanon3A(3)andcurrent   Md.CanonsIXandX.      Sec.3A(5)isderivedfromABACanon3A(4)andcurrent 6   Md.CanonXVI.   \    TheCommentarytosec.3A(5)isderivedfromthe   CommentarytoABACanon3A(4)andtheCommitteenotetocurrent   Md.CanonXVI.  d    Sec.3A(6)isderivedfromABACanon3A(5)andcurrent `  Md.CanonVII.  6   TheCommentarytosec.3A(6)isderivedfromthe  CommentarytoABACanon3A(5)andfromcurrentMd.CanonVII. h Sec.3A(7)isderivedfromABACanon3A(6)andcurrentMd. > EthicsRule12.  d   TheCommentarytosec.3A(7)isderivedfromthe  CommentarytoABACanon3A(6).     Sec.3A(8)isderivedfromcurrentMd.EthicsRule13. B ThereisnoABAprovisiononthissubject.  h   ABACanon3A(7),currentMd.CanonXXXIV,andcurrentMd.  EthicsRule11containprovisionsgoverningbroadcasting,  televising,recordingorphotographingincourtroomsandadjacent p  areas.Severalstateshavedeletedthatprovisionontheground F ! thatitaddressesaquestionofcourtadministrationratherthan !l" ethics.TheCommitteeagrees,especiallysinceRule16-109of !B# theMd.RulesofProceduregovernsmediacoverageofcivil "$ actions,andMd.Code,CriminalProcedureArticle,1-201 #% prohibits(withlimitedexceptions)mediacoverageofcriminal t$& trials.  J% '   Sec.3A(9)andtheCommentarytoSec.3A(9)arederivedfrom &F") ABACanon3B(5)andtheCommentarytotheCanonofthe1990ABA '#* CodeofJudicialConduct.  (#+   Section3A(10)isderivedfromABACanon3B(6)ofthe1990 N*%- Code.  $+t&.   Section3A(9)and3A(10)wereaddedtoemphasizethe , (0 requirementsofimpartialdecision-makingandtheappearanceof -(1 fairnessinthecourtroom.    B. C.ADMINISTRATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. X   (1)Ajudgeshall diligently dischargethejudge's   administrativeresponsibilitieswithout biasorprejudiceand `  maintainprofessionalcompetenceinjudicialadministration,and  \  should favoritismornepotismandshallcooperatewithother   judgesandcourtofficialsintheadministrationofcourt d  business. `  @HH' COMMENT      FormerSection3B(1)wasrevisedtoprohibitajudgefrom h manifestingbiasorprejudiceintheperformanceof > administrativedutiesandtoencourage,ratherthantorequire, d themorepracticabledutyofcooperationratherthan : facilitation.     (2)Ajudgeshall require staff, courtofficials,staff,and l otherssubjecttothejudgesdirectionandcontroltoobserve 4 thestandardsofdiligenceandfidelity anddiligence thatapply 0 tothejudgeandtorefrainfrommanifestingbiasorprejudicein   theperformanceoftheirofficialduties. 8!" @HH' COMMENT  # %   FormerSection3B(2)wasrevisedtoaddtherequirement f% ' thatajudgeexercisereasonabledirectionandcontrolover <&!( judicialpersonneltoassurethattheydonotmanifestbiasor 'b") prejudiceintheperformanceoftheirofficialduties.  '8#*   (3) Ajudgeshouldtakeorinitiateappropriatecorrective )$, measuresagainstajudgeorlawyerforunprofessionalconductof @+&. whichthejudgemaybeaware. Ajudgewithsupervisoryauthority ,<(0 forthejudicialperformanceofotherjudgesshalltake  reasonablemeasurestoensurethepromptdispositionofmatters \ beforethosejudgesandtheproperperformanceoftheirother X judicialresponsibilities.   @HH' COMMENT  6     Correctivemeasuresmayincludeaprivateadmonitionor  2  reportingmisconducttotheappropriatedisciplinarybodyora   barassociationcounselingprogram.      (4) Inexercisingapowerofappointment,ajudgeshould :  appointonlyqualifiedpersonsandshouldavoidnepotismand 6 favoritism.Nounnecessaryappointmentsshouldbemade.Ajudge  shouldnotapprovecompensationofappointeesbeyondthefair > valueofservicesrendered. Ajudgeshallnotmakeunnecessary : appointmentsandshallnotapprovecompensationofappointees  beyondthefairvalueofservicesrendered. B @HH'COMMENT  ̀Consentbythepartiestoanappointmentoranawardof p  compensationdoesnotrelieve the ajudgeoftheobligation F ! prescribedby thissection Canon3C(4). !l"  Committeenote.Sec.3B(1)isderivedfromABACanon[3B(1)] #% C(1)ofthe1990CodeofJudicialConductandcurrentMd.Canon t$& VIII.  J% '   Sec.3B(2)isderivedfromABACanon[3B2)]3C(2)ofthe &F") 1990CodeofJudicialConductandcurrentMd.CanonVIII.  '#*   TheCommentarytoSections3B(1)and(2)isderivedfrom x)$, theCommentarytoABACanons3C(1)and(2)ofthe1990Codeof N*%- JudicialConduct.  $+t&.   Sec.3B(3)isderivedfromABACanon3B(3)andcurrentMd. , (0 CanonXI,exceptthatthoseprovisionsrequirethejudgetotake -(1 appropriate"disciplinary"measures.TheCommitteebelievesthat  theremaybeinstancesofprofessionalmisconductwhichwould  warrantaprivateadmonitionorreferraltoabarassociation \ counselingservice,actionswhicharelessdrasticthan 2 "disciplinary"measures.Requiringajudgetotake"corrective" X measures,therefore,givesthejudgeawiderrangeofoptionsto . dealwithunprofessionalconduct.      TheCommentarytosec.3B(3)isderivedfromtheCommentary `  toABACanon3B(3),butismodifiedinaccordancewiththe 6   Committee'schangestoABACanon3B(3).   \    Sec.3B(4)isderivedfromABACanon3B(4)andcurrentMd.   CanonXII.      TheCommentarytosec.3B(4)isderivedfromtheCommentary :  toABACanon3B(4)andfromcurrentMd.CanonXII.  x  `   C. D.RECUSAL. h   (1)Ajudge shouldnotparticipateina shallrecusehimself d orherselffromaproceedinginwhichthejudge's impartiality   mightreasonablybequestioned,including butnotlimitedto  instanceswhere aninstancewhen: 4    ` (a)thejudgehasapersonalbiasorprejudice 0 concerningaparty ,orpersonal orapartyslawyerorextra   judicial knowledge ofadisputedevidentiary facts fact 8!" concerningtheproceeding; #P$    ` (b)thejudgeservedasalawyerinthematterin $& controversy,oralawyerwithwhomthejudgepreviouslypracticed X&!( lawservedduringsuchassociationasalawyerconcerningthe (T#* matter,orthejudge orlawyer hasbeenamaterialwitness )%, concerningit; \+&.   -.)1 @HH'COMMENT    Alawyerinagovernmentalagencydoesnotnecessarilyhave \ anassociationwithotherlawyersemployedbythatagencywithin 2 themeaningof thissubsection Canon3D(1)(b);ajudgeformerly X employedbyagovernmentalagency,however,shouldnot . participateinaproceedingifthejudge's impartiality might   reasonablybequestionedbecauseofsuchassociation.      ` (c)thejudge knows thatheorshe,individuallyoras D   a fiduciary ,or thejudgesspouseorminorchildofthejudge  \  residinginthejudgeshousehold a memberofthejudgesfamily , $  hasa significantfinancialinterest inthesubjectmatterin   controversyorinapartytotheproceeding ,oranyother d interestthatcouldbesubstantiallyaffectedbytheoutcomeof ` theproceeding ;   @HH'COMMENT >   Asaminimumstandardfordeterminingwhatconstitutesa : "significantfinancialinterest,"thejudgeshouldapplythe  definitionof"financialinterest"providedintheMaryland  PublicEthicsLaw,Md.Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15-102 l (n)(1995ReplacementVolumeand1998Supplement): (1)Ownership B ofaninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhasreceived h withinthepast3years,iscurrentlyreceiving,orinthefuture >  isentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear;or(2)(i)  ! ownershipofmorethan3%ofabusinessentity;or(ii)ownership !" ofsecuritiesofanykindthatrepresent,orareconvertible p"# into,ownershipofmorethan3%ofabusinessentity."  F#$   Moreover,theremaybesituationsinvolvingalesser $B & financialinterestwhichalsorequirerecusalbecauseofthe %!' judge'sownsenseofpropriety.Conversely,therearesituations &!( whereparticipationmaybeappropriateeventhoughthe"financial t'") interest"thresholdispresent.Inthelattercase,thejudge J(#* mustfirstobtainanopinionfromtheJudicialEthicsCommittee  )p$+ toobtainanexemption,exceptasprovidedinCanon3D )F%, (Non-recusalbyAgreement).   Theremaybesituationsthat *&- involvealesserfinancialinterestbutnonethelessrequire +&. recusalbecauseofthejudge'sownsenseofpropriety. x,'/ Conversely,therearesituationswhereparticipationmaybe N-(0 appropriateeventhoughthe"financialinterest"thresholdis $.t)1 present.Inthelattercase,ajudgefirstmustobtainan  opinionfromtheJudicialEthicsCommitteewithregardtothe  appropriateness,exceptasprovidedinCanon3E(Non-recusalby \ Agreement). 2    ` (d)thejudge, thespouseofthejudge thejudges . spouse, aperson anindividualwithinthe thirddegreeof   relationship toeitherofthem,orthespouseofsuch aperson an R   individual: j     `  (i)isapartytotheproceeding ,orisknownby   thejudgetobeanofficer,director, oradirector,officer,or r  trusteeofaparty; n    `  (ii)isactingasalawyerintheproceeding;  @HH'COMMENT "r   Thefactthatalawyerinaproceedingisaffiliatedwitha  lawfirmwithwhichalawyer-relativeofajudgeisaffiliated  doesnotofitselfrequirerecusalofthejudge.Under z appropriatecircumstances,thefactthat"thejudges P  impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned"underCanon 3C 3D &v (1),orthatthelawyer-relativeis known bythejudgetohavean  Z interestinthelawfirmthatcouldbe"substantiallyaffectedby > the outcomeofthe proceeding"underCanon 3C 3D(1)(d)(iii),may   requirethejudgesrecusal.  !    `  (iii)is known bythejudgetohave aninterest a F"#  significantfinancialinterest thatcouldbesubstantially $^% affectedbythe outcomeofthe proceeding;or %&!'    `  (iv)istothejudge's knowledge likelytobea '") materialwitnessintheproceeding . ;or J)$+    ` (e)thejudge,whileajudgeoracandidatefor *F&- judicialoffice,hasmadeapublicstatementthatcommits,or ,'/ appearstocommit,thejudgewithrespectto: N.)1    `  (i)anissueintheproceeding;or     `  (ii)thecontroversyintheproceeding. \ Ѐ(2)Ajudge should shallkeepinformedabout hisorher the X judgespersonaland fiduciary financialinterests , andshall   makeareasonableefforttokeepinformedaboutthepersonal |  financialinterestsof thejudgesspouseandminorchildren ( x  residingin each memberofthejudges household . $  Ѐ (3)Forthepurposesofthissection:    Ѐ (a)thedegreeofrelationshipiscalculatedaccordingto H  thecivillawsystem;  D @HH' COMMENT  L   Thefollowingpersonsarewithinthreedegreesof H relationshipaccordingtothecivillawsystem:parent,  grandparent,sibling,child,grandchild,uncle,aunt,niece,and  nephew.  z Ӏ (b)"fiduciary"includessuchrelationshipsaspersonal &v representative,executor,administrator,trustee,custodian, " attorneyinfactbypowerofattorney,andguardian;  ~ !   (c)"financialinterest"meansownershipofalegalor *"z# equitableinterest,orarelationshipasdirector,advisor,or #&% otheractiveparticipantintheaffairsofaparty,exceptthat:  % '   (i)ownershipinamutualorcommoninvestmentfundthat .'~") holdssecuritiesisnota"financialinterest"insuchsecurities (*$+ unlessthejudgeparticipatesinthemanagementofthefund;  *%-   (ii)anofficeinaneducational,religious,charitable, 2,'/ fraternal,orcivicorganizationisnota"financialinterest"in -.)1 securitiesheldbytheorganization;     (iii)theproprietaryinterestofapolicyholderina \ mutualinsurancecompany,ofadepositorinamutualsavings X association,orasimilarproprietaryinterest,isa"financial   interest"intheissueronlyiftheoutcomeoftheproceeding `  couldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest;   \    (iv)ownershipofgovernmentsecuritiesisa"financial   interest"intheissueronlyiftheoutcomeoftheproceeding d  couldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthesecurities.  `   Committeenote.Sec.3C(1)(a)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)   (a).     Sec.3C(1)(b)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(b).Current h Md.EthicsRule2requiresrecusalinanymatterinwhichthe > judgepreviouslyactedasalawyer.Sec.3C(1)(b)extendsthe d recusalrequirementtoanymatterinwhichthejudge'sformer : partnerorassociateactedwhilethejudgewasinpractice.     TheCommentarytosec.3C(1)(b)isderivedfromthe l CommentarytoABACanon3C(1)(b)andisconsistentwithMd. B JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.1(issued9/13/71).  h   Sec.3C(1)(c)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(c)and  currentMd.EthicsRule2.ThatABACanonrequiresrecusalif  anyfinancialinterest, howeversmall,"ispresent;currentMd. p  EthicsRule2mandatesrecusalifajudgehasa"significant" F ! financialinterestinthematter,whichmeansavalueinexcess !l" of$1,000.SeeMd.JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.78(issued !B# 10/29/80).TheCommitteebelievesthatdeminimisfinancial "$ interestsshouldnotautomaticallyrequirerecusal.Asaresult, #% theCommitteefavorstheuseofthedefinitionof"financial t$& interest"providedintheMarylandPublicEthicsLaw. J% ' Accordingly,thisstandardissetforthintheCommentarytosec.  &p!( 3C(1)(c).  &F")   ThefirstsentenceofthelastparagraphoftheCommentary (#+ tosec.3C(1)(c)isderivedfromtheCommitteenotetocurrent x)$, Md.EthicsRule2.ThelasttwosentencesofthisCommentaryare N*%- newandallowsomeflexibilitytomandatoryrecusalevenwhere $+t&. thefinancialinterestthresholdexists.Suchexemptionscanbe +J'/ determinedbytheCommitteeonanadhocbasis.  , (0  -(1   Thefirstclauseofsec.3C(1)(d)(i)isderivedfromABA  Canon3C(1)(d)(i),currentMd.CanonXIII,andcurrentMd.  EthicsRule2.ThesecondclauseisderivedfromthesameABA \ Canon,whichdoesnot,however,requireknowledgebythejudgeof 2 therelative'sposition.TheCommitteebelievesthatsuch X knowledgeshouldbeactual,notimputed.  .   Sec.3C(1)(d)(ii)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(d)(ii).      TheCommentarytosec.3C(1)(d)(ii)isderivedfromABA 6   Canon3C(1)(d)(ii)andisconsistentwithMd.JudicialEthics  \  OpinionNo.53(issued6/16/77)andNo.25(issued12/26/74).   2    Sec.3C(1)(d)(iii)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(d)   (iii).  d    Sec.3C(1)(d)(iv)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(d)(iv).  `    Sec.3C(2)isderivedfromABACanon3C(2)andcurrentMd.   CanonXXV.     Sec.3C(3)(a)isderivedfromABACanon3C(3)(a).Current > Md.EthicsRule2usesthecommonlawsystem,whichcountsdown d fromthecommonancestor,amethodwhichwouldextendthe : disqualificationwherethejudge'sfirstcousinsareinvolved.  Thirty-sevenstateshaveadoptedtheABACodeprovision,asdoes  Md.Code,sec.1-203oftheEstatesandTrustsArticlefor l purposesofestatedistributionandadministration.  B  TheCommentarytosec.3C(3)(a)isderivedfromtheCommentary h toABACanon3C(3)(a).  >   Sec.3C(3)(b)isderivedfromABACanon3C(3)(b).     Sec.3C(3)(c)isderivedfromABACanon3C(3)(c),butis F ! modifiedasexplainedintheCommitteenotetosec.3C(1)(c).  !l"   Sec.3C(3)(c)(i)isderivedfromABACanon3C(1)(c)(i). "$ Thisprovisionwould,superficiallyatleast,negateMd.Judicial #% EthicsOpinionNo.81(issued11/20/80).Thatopinionrequired t$& recusalbecausethejudgehadinvestedinanunusualtypeof J% ' mutualfund,wheretheinvestmentswereunchangingandthejudge  &p!( knewofeachcompanyinwhichthefundhadinvested.Underthose &F") particularfacts,however,thejudge'srecusalwouldstillbe '#* requiredunderCanon3C(1)(c)("aninterestthatcouldbe (#+ substantiallyaffectedbytheoutcomeoftheproceeding")or x)$, underthebroadtestofCanon3C(1)(wherethejudge's N*%- "impartialitymightreasonablybequestioned").  $+t&.   Secs.3C(3)(c)(ii),(iii)and(iv)arederivedfromABA , (0 Canon3C(3)(ii),(iii),and(iv),respectively.  -(1 Ї@HH'COMMENT    UnderCanon3D(1),ajudgemustrecusehimselforherself \ wheneverthejudges impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned, 2 regardlessofwhetheranyofthespecificinstancesinCanon3D f (1)apply. <   Ajudgemustdiscloseontherecordinformationthatthe   judgebelievesthepartiesortheirlawyersmightconsider n  relevanttothequestionofrecusal,evenifthejudgebelieves D   thatthereisnorealbasisforrecusal.  j    Bydecisionallaw,theruleofnecessitymayoverridethe   ruleofrecusal.Forexample,ajudgemightberequiredto   participateinjudicialreviewofajudicialsalarystatuteor r  mightbetheonlyjudgeavailableinamatterrequiringimmediate H  judicialaction,suchasahearingonprobablecauseora n  temporaryrestrainingorder.Whentheruleofnecessitydoes D overridetheruleofrecusal,thejudgemustdiscloseonthe  recordthebasisforpossiblerecusaland,ifpracticable,use  reasonableeffortstotransferthematterpromptlytoanother v judge. L  D. E.NON-RECUSALBYAGREEMENT.  Ѐ Where IfrecusalwouldberequiredbyCanon 3C(1)(c)or P Canon3C(1)(d) 3D,thejudgemaydiscloseontherecordthe L  basisof reasonfortherecusal. Ifthelawyers,after  consultationwiththeirclientsandindependentlyofthejudge's T ! participation,allagreeontherecordthatthejudgeoughtto "P# participatenotwithstandingthebasisforrecusal,thejudgemay #% participateintheproceeding. Ifafterdisclosureofanyreason X% ' forrecusalotherthanasrequiredbyCanon3D(1)(a),the 'T") partiesandlawyers,outofthepresenceofthejudge,allagree ($+ thatthejudgeneednotrecusehimselforherself,andthejudge \*%- iswillingtoparticipate,theagreementofthepartiesshallbe ,X'/ incorporatedintherecord,andthejudgemayparticipateinthe -)1 proceeding.  @HH'COMMENT 2   Thisprocedureisdesignedtominimizethechancethata . partyorlawyerwillfeelcoercedintoanagreement.Aprose   partymayagreetoallowparticipationbythejudge. This   proceduregivesthepartiesanopportunitytowaivetherecusal `  ifthejudgeagrees.Thejudgemaycommentonpossiblewaiver 6   butmustensurethatconsiderationofthequestionofwaiveris  \  madeindependentlyofthejudge.Apartymayactthroughcounsel  2  ifcounselrepresentsontherecordthatthepartyhasbeen   consultedandconsents.Asapracticalmatter,ajudgemaywish   tohaveallpartiesandtheirlawyerssignawaiveragreement. d   Committeenote.Sec.3DandtheCommentarytheretoarederived `  fromABACanon3DandtheCommentarythereto;however,those 6 provisionsrequirewrittenapprovaloftheparties.Becausea   partymaynotbereadilyavailabletosign,theCommittee  believesthatthelawyer'sagreement,afterconsultationwiththe h client,shouldsuffice.Non-recusalbyagreementisnotpermitted > undercurrentMd.EthicsRule2,asinterpretedbyMd.Judicial d EthicsOpinionNo.78(issued10/29/80)andNo.50(issued : 1/17/77).   F.DISCIPLINARYRESPONSIBILITIES. h   (1)Ajudgeshouldtakeorinitiateappropriatecorrective  measureswithrespecttotheunprofessionalconductofanother p  judgeoralawyer. !l" Ѐ(2)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if "$ attempted,werenotsuccessful,ajudgeshallinformthe t$& CommissiononJudicialDisabilitiesoffacts known tothatjudge  &p!( thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoanotherjudgesfitness '8#* foroffice. )$,   (3)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if @+&. attempted,werenotsuccessful,ajudgeshallinformtheAttorney ,<(0 GrievanceCommissionoffacts known tothejudgethatraisea  substantialquestionastoalawyershonesty,trustworthiness, x orfitnessasalawyerinotherrespects. $t   (4)ActsofajudgerequiredorpermittedbyCanon3F(1),   (2),or(3)shallbeabsolutelyprivileged,andnocivilaction |  predicatedthereonmaybeinstitutedagainstthejudge. ( x  @HH'COMMENT     Permittingajudgetotake"corrective"measuresgivesthe V  judgeawiderangeofoptionstodealwithunprofessional ,|  conduct.Appropriatecorrectivemeasuresmayincludedirect R communicationwiththejudgeorlawyerwhoisbelievedtohave ( committedtheviolationorotherdirectactionifavailable.  Theremaybeinstancesofprofessionalmisconductthatwould  warrantaprivateadmonitionorreferraltoabarassociation Z counselingservice. 0 _  , @&CANON4  (@(Extra-Judicial@@%Activities \ A.EXTRAJUDICIALACTIVITIESINGENERAL.     Exceptasotherwiseprohibitedorlimitedbylaworthese `  canons,ajudgemayengageinthefollowingactivities,ifdoing  \  sodoesnotinterferewiththeproperperformanceofjudicial   duties,doesnotreflectadverselyuponthejudge'simpartiality, d  anddoesnotdetractfromthedignityoftheoffice.  `   Committeenote.ThisCanoncombinesABACanons4(Quasi-judicial   Activities)and5(Extra-judicialActivities)and6AandB  (CompensationandExpenseReimbursement)andisconsistentwith h theABACode,unlessspecificallynotedotherwise.  >   Ajudgeshallconductallextrajudicialactivitiessothat : theydonot:@*    (1)causeasubstantialquestionastothejudgescapacity B toact impartially asajudge; >   (2)demeanthejudicialoffice;or  Ѐ(3)interferewiththeproperperformanceofjudicial b ! duties. "^# @HH'COMMENT $&   Completeseparationofajudgefromextrajudicial <&!( activitiesisneitherpossiblenordesirable.Ajudgeshouldnot 'b") becomeisolatedfromthejudgescommunity. '8#*   Anextrajudicialactivity,however,maybeperceivedto )$, reflectonjudicialbehavior.Forexample,anexpressionofbias j*%- orprejudicebyajudge,evenoutsidethejudgesjudicial @+&. activities,maycauseasubstantialquestionastothejudges ,f'/ capacitytoact impartially asajudge.Expressionsthatmaydo ,<(0 soincludejokesorotherremarksdemeaningindividualsonthe - )1 basisoftheirage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,  sex,sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.SeeCanon2C  andtheaccompanyingComment. \  A. B.AVOCATIONALACTIVITIES.     SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode, A _a_judgemay `  lecture,speak,teach,write, lecture,andteach and onboth  \  legalandnon-legalsubjects.Ajudgemayparticipateinother   activitiesconcerningthelaw,thelegalsystemandthe d  administrationofjustice.Ajudgemayengageinsocialand `  recreationalactivities. otherwiseparticipateinotherextra   judicialactivitiesconcerningtheadministrationofjustice,the h legalsystem,improvementofthelaw,andnonlegalmatters. d @HH'COMMENT    Completeseparationofajudgefromextra-judicial B activitiesisneitherpossiblenorwise;ajudgeshouldnot h becomeisolatedfromthesocietyinwhichheorshemaylive. A > judgeisinauniquepositiontocontributetotheadministration  ofjustice,thelegalsystem,andimprovementofthelaw,  includingtherevisionofsubstantiveandprocedurallawand p  improvementofcriminalandjuvenilejustice.Astimemay F ! permit,ajudgeisencouragedtodoso,eitherindependentlyor !l" throughabarassociation,judicialconference,orother !B# organizationdedicatedtotheimprovementofthelaw. "$   Thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeis t$& usedinthisandothersectionsofCanon4,primarilyin J% ' connectionwithajudgescharitable,civic,orgovernmental  &p!( activities,toremindjudgesthatuseofpermissivelanguagein &F") varioussectionsofthisCodedoesnotrelieveajudgefromthe '#* otherprovisionsofthisCodethatapplytothespecificconduct. (#+  Committeenote.Sec.4AisderivedfromABACanons4Aand5A N*%- andcurrentMd.CanonXXX.  $+t&.   TheCommentarytosec.4AisderivedfromtheCommentaryto , (0 ABACanon5AandfromcurrentMd.Canon_XXXII_.  -(1 _ԇ@P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion   Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehascautionedthat j ajudgewhoagreestospeakatapoliticalclubshouldschedule N thespeechsoasnottobepresentforpoliticaldiscussions,be 2 reasonablyavailabletoothergroupswithsimilarinvitations,  f andnotspeakatfundraisingevents.  J  @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion  |    Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehascautioned 6  judgestoscheduleaspeechatapoliticalclubsoasnottobe j  presentforpoliticaldiscussions,tobereasonablyavailableto N  othergroupswithsimilarinvitations,nottolectureto 2  probationerswhomightbebroughtbackbeforethecourt,andnot  tospeakatfundraisingevents.     TheJudicialEthicsCommitteehasheldthatwritingan d introductionforabookwasnotusingthejudicialofficefora : privatebusiness. `  B. C. GOVERNMENT CHARITABLE,CIVIC,ANDGOVERNMENTALACTIVITIES. >   (1) Ajudgemayappearbeforeandconferwithpublicbodies : orofficialsonmattersconcerningthejudiciaryorthe  administrationofjustice. Exceptwhenactingproseinamatter B   thatinvolvesthejudgeorthejudgesinterests,whenactingas !J" toamatterthatconcernstheadministrationofjustice,the #$ legalsystem,orimprovementofthelaw,orwhenactingas R% & otherwiseallowedunderCanon4,ajudgeshallnotappearata &N"( publichearingbefore,orotherwiseconsultwith,anexecutiveor (#* legislativebodyorofficial. V*%,  -(0 @HH'COMMENT  ̀AssuggestedintheReporter'sNotestotheABAModel \ CodeofJudicialConduct(1990),the administrationofjustice" 8 isnotlimitedto mattersofjudicialadministration"butis d broadenoughtoincludeothermattersrelatingtothejudiciary. :   (2)Ajudgemayserveongovernmentaladvisorybodies   devotedtotheimprovementofthelaw,thelegalsystemorthe B   administrationofjusticeandmayrepresenthisorhercountry,  >  stateorlocalityonceremonialoccasionsorinconnectionwith   historical,educationalandculturalactivities.  F  @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  B   (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon   4A,ajudgemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmentalcommission,  committee,orposition.  J @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion     (2)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjecttoCanon  4A,ajudgemayacceptappointmenttoagovernmentaladvisory N commission,committee,orposition.  !f! @HH'COMMENT #$   Valuableserviceshavebeenrenderedinthepasttothe `% & statesandthenationbyjudgesappointedbytheexecutiveto 6&!' undertakeextra-judicialassignments.Theappropriatenessof  '\"( conferringtheseassignmentsonjudgesmustbereassessed, '2#) however,inlightofthedemandsonjudicialtimecreatedby ($* today'scrowdeddocketsandtheneedtoprotectthecourtsfrom )$+ involvementinextra-judicialmattersthatmayprovetobe d*%, controversial.Judgesshouldnotbeexpectedorpermittedto :+&- acceptgovernmentalappointmentsthatcouldinterferewiththe ,`'. effectivenessandindependenceofthejudiciary.Norcanajudge ,6(/ assumeordischargethelegislativeorexecutivepowersof - )0 government(Article8oftheMd.DeclarationofRights)orhold  an"office"undertheconstitutionorlawsoftheUnitedStates  orStateofMaryland(Article33oftheMd.Declarationof \ Rights). Ajudgemaynotacceptagovernmentalappointmentthat 2 couldinterferewiththeeffectivenessandindependenceofthe X judiciary,assumeordischargeanexecutiveorlegislativepower . (MarylandDeclarationofRights,Article8),orholdan"office"   undertheconstitutionorotherlawsoftheUnitedStatesor   StateofMaryland(MarylandDeclarationofRights,Articles33 `  and35). 6   Committeenote:TheJudicialEthicsCommitteenotesthatthe   supremacyclauseofU.S.ConstitutionArticleIVmayallow   serviceinreservecomponentsofthearmedforcesthatotherwise d  mightbeprecludedunderthisCode,suchasserviceasajudge :  advocateormilitaryjudge.However,theAttorneyGeneral, `  ratherthantheJudicialEthicsCommittee,traditionallyhas 6 renderedopinionswithregardtoissuesofdualorincompatible   offices.    (3)Asaprivatecitizen,ajudgemayappearbeforeor d conferwithpublicbodiesorofficialsonmattersthatdirectly  relatetoajudge'sperson,immediatefamilyorpropertysolong l asthejudgedoesnotuse,andavoidstheappearanceofusing, h theprestigeofthejudge'sofficetoinfluencedecision-making.    Committeenote.Sec.4B(1)isderivedfromABACanon4B, p  whichprovidesasfollows:  F !   [Ajudge]mayappearatapublichearingbeforeanexecutive !B# orlegislativebodyorofficialonmattersconcerningthelaw, "$ thelegalsystem,andtheadministrationofjustice,andhemay #% otherwiseconsultwithanexecutiveorlegislativebodyor t$& official,butonlyonmattersconcerningtheadministrationof J% ' justice.   &p!(   TheCommitteebelievesthatthephrase"mattersconcerning '#* thelaw"isoverlybroad,andthatajudge'sparticipation,asa (#+ judge,beforepublicbodiesorofficialsshouldbelimitedto x)$, mattersinvolvingthejudiciaryoradministrationofjustice. N*%- CurrentMd.CanonXXIIallowsajudge'sparticipationin $+t&. executiveandlegislativemattersto"improvetheadministration +J'/ ofjustice."  , (0  -(1   TheCommentarytosec.4B(1)isfromthestatedsource.  Sec.4B(2)isderivedfromABACanon5G.CurrentMd.Ethics  Rule3andArticle33oftheMd.DeclarationofRightsprohibita \ judgefromholdingany"office,"civil,militaryorpolitical, 2 undertheconstitutionorlawsoftheUnitedStatesorStateof X Maryland.An"office"isonewhichcallsfortheexerciseof . someportionofthesovereignpowerofgovernment.See,e.g.,   HowardCountyComm.v.Westphal,232Md.334,340(1963)and   JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.77(issued9/14/79)andNo.97 f  (issued4/21/82).Serviceonagovernment"advisory"commission <   wouldnotbeprohibited.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.75  b  (issued9/13/79)andNo.90(11/28/80)andUnreportedOpinionNo.  8  82-16(issued9/7/82),No.81-3(issued4/1/81)andNo.80-1   (issued6/13/80).      TheCommentarytosec.4B(2)isderivedfromthe @  CommentarytoABACanon5G,exceptthatthelastsentence f  thereofisaddedtoreflecttheprovisionsofArticles8and33 < oftheMd.DeclarationofRights.     Sec.4B(3)appearstobeprohibitedbyABACanon4B. n However,withinproperboundsandwithappropriaterestraint, D suchconducthasbeenpermittedbyMarylandjudgesintheir j personalaffairs.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.99(issued @ 7/12/82)andInReFoster,271Md.449(1974).    C.CIVICANDCHARITABLEACTIVITIES.  D   Ajudgemayparticipateandserveasamember,officer,  director,trustee,ornon-legaladvisorofaneducational, L ! religious,charitable,fraternal,law-relatedorcivic !H# organizationnotconductedfortheeconomicorpolitical #% advantageofitsmembers,subjecttothefollowingprovisions: P% ' (1)Ajudgeshouldnotparticipateandserveifitislikelythat &L") theorganization:(a)willbeengagedinproceedingsthatwould (#+ ordinarilycomebeforethejudge;(b)willberegularlyengaged T*%- inadversaryproceedingsinanycourt;or(c)dealswithpeople ,P'/ whoarereferredtotheorganizationbythecourtonwhichthe -(1 judgeservesorwhootherwisemaylikelycomebeforethatcourt.   @HH' COMMENT  2   Thechangingnatureofsomeorganizationsandoftheir . relationshiptothelawmakesitnecessaryforajudgeregularly   toreexaminetheactivitiesofeachorganizationwithwhicha   judgeisaffiliatedtodetermineifitispropertocontinuea `  relationshipwithit.Forexample,inmanyjurisdictions 6   charitableorganizationsarenowmorefrequentlyincourtthanin  \  thepastormakepolicydecisionsthatmayhavepolitical  2  significanceorimplycommitmenttocausesthatmaycomebefore   thecourtsforadjudication.      Asajudicialofficerandpersonspeciallylearnedinthe :  law,ajudgeisinauniquepositiontocontributetothe `  improvementofthelaw,thelegalsystem,andtheadministration 6 ofjustice,includingrevisionofsubstantiveandprocedurallaw   andtheimprovementofcriminalandjuvenilejustice.Tothe  extentthattimepermits,ajudgeisencouragedtodoso,either h independentlyorthroughabarassociation,judicialconference > orotherorganizationdedicatedtotheimprovementofthelaw.  d   (2)Ajudgeshouldnotsolicitfundsforanysuch  organization,oruseorpermittheuseoftheprestigeofthe l judge'sofficeforthatpurpose,butajudgemaybelistedasan h officer,director,ortrusteeoftheorganization.Ajudgemay  makerecommendationstopublicandprivatefundgrantingagencies p  onprojectsandprogramsofwhichthejudgehaspersonal !l" knowledgeandwhichconcernthelaw,thelegalsystem,orthe "$ administrationofjustice.Ajudgeshouldnotbeaspeakeror t$& theguestofhonoratanorganization'sfundraisingevents,but  &p!( mayattendsuchevents.  '#*  Committeenote.Thefirstparagraphofsec.Cisderivedfrom x)$, ABACanons4Cand5B,currentMd.EthicsRule9andthe N*%- CommitteenotetocurrentMd.EthicsRule9.  $+t&.   Secs.4C(1)(a)and(b)arederivedfromABACanon5B , (0 (1).  -(1   Sec.4C(1)(c)isderivedfromaseriesofrulingsbythe  Md.JudicialEthicsCommittee.SeeOpinionNo.6(issued3/1/72),  No.35(issued10/3/75),andNo.75(issued9/13/79)and \ UnreportedOpinionNo.81-15(issued2/16/82)andNo.82-7 2 (issued4/26/82).  X   ThefirstparagraphoftheCommentarytosec.4C(1)is   derivedfromtheCommentarytoABACanon5B.      ThesecondparagraphoftheCommentarytosec.4C(1)is 6   derivedfromtheCommentarytoABACanon4C.   \    Sec.4C(2)isderivedfromABACanon5B(2),ABACanon4   C,currentMd.CanonXXIV,currentMd.EthicsRule9andis   consistentwithnumerousopinionsissuedbytheJudicialEthics d  Committee,withoneexception:JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.6 :  (issued3/1/72)andNo.59(issued11/30/77)requirethatthe `  nameofthejudgebeomittedasanofficerordirectorinany 6 campaignliteratureforthatorganization.ABACanon4Cpermits   ajudgetoassistinfundraisingforalaw-relatedorganization,  providedthejudgedoesnotpersonallyparticipatein"public" h fundraisingactivities.TheCommitteebelievesthatthedangers > inherentinajudge'sparticipationincivicandcharitablefund d raisingareequallyapplicabletofundraising,publicor : private,forlaw-relatedorganizations.Notwithstandingthese  prohibitions,thejudgemaystillparticipatein"purelyinternal  discussionsanddecisionswithintheconfinesofthegoverning l board"relatingtofundraisingactivities.JudicialEthics B OpinionNo.89(issued11/25/80).  h   ABACanon5B(3)providesthatajudgeshouldnotgive  investmentadvicetoanon-profitorganization,butmayserveon  itsboardofdirectorsortrusteeseventhoughithasthe p  responsibilityforapprovinginvestmentdecisions.TheABA F ! rationaleforthisprohibitionistoavoidattributingtothe !l" judgeafiduciary'sinterestintheorganization'sinvestment !B# portfolio,whichcouldresultinthejudge'srecusalinacase "$ involvingsuchinvestments.Thisprovisionisunnecessary,since #% proposedMarylandCanon3C(3)(c)(ii)providesthatajudge's t$& officeinanon-profitorganizationisnota"financialinterest" J% ' insecuritiesheldbytheorganization.Moreover,therearemany  &p!( othertypesofdecisionsthatajudgewouldmakeasaboard &F") memberwhichwouldrequirerecusalinaparticularmatter,but '#* whicharenotspecificallydealtwithinthesecanons.  (#+   (3)Ajudgemayrepresentthiscountry,astate,ora $+t&. localityonceremonialoccasionsorinconnectionwithcultural, , (0 educational,orhistoricalactivities.  Ѐ(4)(a)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,ajudge \ maybeadirector,member,non-legaladviser,officer,ortrustee X ofacharitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,   law-related,orreligiousorganization. `  @HH'COMMENT  2    SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseofthephrase    subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode.Asanexampleofthe d  meaningofthephrase,ajudgepermittedunderCanon4C(4)to :  serveontheboardofanorganizationmaybeprohibitedfromsuch `  serviceby,forexample,Canon2Cor4A,iftheorganization 6 practicesinvidiousdiscriminationorifserviceontheboard   otherwisecausesasubstantialquestionastothejudges  capacitytoact impartially asajudgeorastoserviceasa h legaladviser. L Ӏ  (b)Ajudgeshallnotbeadirector,member,nonlegal H adviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationthatisconducted  fortheeconomicorpoliticaladvantageofitsmembers. P Ѐ(c)Ajudgeshallnotbeadirector,member,nonlegal L adviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationifitislikely  thattheorganization: T !    ` (i)willbeengagedregularlyinadversaryproceedings "P# inanycourt;or #%    ` (ii)dealswithpeoplewhoarereferredtothe X% ' organizationbyanycourt. 'T") @HH'COMMENT )$, ̀Thechangingnatureofsomeorganizationsandoftheir 2+&. relationshiptothelawmakesitnecessaryforajudgeregularly ,X'/ toreexaminetheactivitiesofeachorganizationwithwhichthe ,.(0 judgeisaffiliatedtodeterminewhetheritispropertocontinue -)1 arelationshipwithit.Forexample,inmanyjurisdictions,  charitableorganizationsaremorefrequentlyincourtnowthanin  thepastormakepolicydecisionsthatmayhavepolitical \ significanceorimplycommitmenttocausesthatmaycomebefore 2 thecourtsforadjudication. X   (d)(i)Ajudgeshallnotparticipatepersonallyin:      `  (A)solicitationoffundsorotherfundraising 6   activities,exceptthatajudgemaysolicitfundsfromother  2  judgesoverwhomthejudgedoesnotexerciseappellateor   supervisoryjurisdiction;or :     `  (B)amembershipsolicitationthatreasonably 6 mightbeperceivedascoerciveor,exceptaspermittedinCanon  4C(4)(d)(i)(A),isessentiallyafundraisingmechanism. >    ` (ii)Ajudgeshallnotparticipateasaguestofhonor : orspeakeratafundraisingevent.     ` (iii)ExceptasallowedbyCanon4C(4)(d),ajudge B shallnotuseorlendtheprestigeofjudicialofficeforfund > raisingormembershipsolicitation.    (iv)Ajudgemay: F !    ` (A)assistanorganizationinplanningfund !B# raising; #%    ` (B)participateintheinvestmentandmanagement J% ' ofanorganizationsfunds;and &F")    ` (C)makerecommendationstoprivateandpublic (#+ fundgrantingorganizationsonprogramsandprojectsconcerning N*%- theadministrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovement +J'/ ofthelaw. -(1 @HH'COMMENT    Asadirector,member,nonlegaladviser,officer,or \ trusteeofanorganizationthatisdevotedtotheadministration 2 ofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementofthelaworfora X notforprofitcharitable,civic,educational,fraternalor . sororal,orreligiousorganization,ajudgemaysolicit   membershipandencourageorendorsemembershipeffortsforthe   organization,aslongasthesolicitationcannotreasonablybe `  perceivedascoerciveandisnotessentiallyafundraising 6   mechanism.Solicitationoffundsandsolicitationofmemberships  \  similarlyinvolvethedangerthatthepersonsolicitedwillfeel  2  obligatedtorespondfavorablytothesolicitorwhoisina   positionofcontrolorinfluence.Ajudgemaybelistedasa   director,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationbutmustnot d  engageindirect,individualsolicitationoffundsormemberships :  inperson,bytelephone,orinwriting,forthatorganization, `  exceptinthefollowingcases:(1)ajudgemaysolicit,forfunds 6 ormemberships,otherjudgesoverwhomthejudgedoesnot   exerciseappellateorsupervisoryauthority;(2)ajudgemay  solicit,formembershipinanorganizationdescribedabove,other h personsifneitherthosepersonsnorpersonswithwhomtheyare > affiliatedarelikelytoappearbeforethecourtonwhichthe d judgeserves;and(3)ajudgewhoisanofficerofan : organizationdescribedabovemaysendageneralmembership  solicitationmailingoverthejudgessignature.    Useofanorganizationsletterheadforfundraisingor B membershipsolicitationdoesnotviolateCanon4C(4)ifthe h letterheadlistsonlythejudgesnameandofficeorother > positionintheorganization.Ajudgesjudicialofficealsomay  belistedifcomparableinformationislistedforother  individuals.Ajudgemustmakereasonableeffortstoensurethat p  courtofficials,thejudgesstaff,andotherssubjecttothe F ! judgesdirectionandcontroldonotuseorrefertotheir !l" relationshipwiththejudgetosolicitfundsforanypurpose, !B# charitableorotherwise. "$   Althoughajudgeisnotpermittedtobeaguestofhonoror t$& speakeratafundraisingevent,Canon4doesnotprohibita J% ' judgefromattendinganeventifotherwiseconsistentwiththis  &p!( Code. &F") D.FINANCIALACTIVITIES. N*%-   (1)Ajudge shouldrefrainfrom shallnotengageinbusiness +J'/ orfinancial andbusiness dealingsthat: usethejudgesposition -(1 or     (a)reasonablywouldbeperceivedtoviolateCanon2B;or \   (b)involvethejudgeinfrequenttransactionsorcontinuing X businessrelationshipswithlawyersorotherpersonslikelyto   comebeforethecourtonwhichthejudgeserves. `  @HH'COMMENT  2    Canon4D(1)(b)isnecessarytoavoidcreatinganappearance   ofexploitationofofficeorfavoritismandtominimizethe d  potentialforrecusal.Ajudgealsoshoulddiscourage membersof :  thejudgesfamily fromengagingindealingsthatreasonably n  wouldappeartoexploitthejudgesjudicialposition.With R respecttoaffiliationofrelativesofthejudgewithlawfirms ( appearingbeforethejudge,seetheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(d)  relatingtorecusal.    Participationbyajudgeinbusinessandfinancialdealings 0 issubjecttothegeneralprohibitionsinCanon4Aagainst V activitiesthatcauseasubstantialquestionasto impartiality , , demeanthejudicialoffice,orinterferewiththeproper  performanceofjudicialduties.Suchparticipationalsois  subjecttothegeneralprohibitioninCanon2againstactivities l involvingimproprietyortheappearanceofimproprietyandthe B prohibitioninCanon2Bagainstmisuseoftheprestigeof h judicialoffice.Inaddition,ajudgemustmaintainhigh > standardsofconductinallofthejudgesactivities,asset  forthinCanon1.SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseof   thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode. p !   (2)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode, A ajudgemay "B$ holdandmanageinvestments,includingrealestate,andengagein $& otherremunerative activity activitiesexceptthatafull-time J&!( judgeshallnothold anyofficeor adirectorship inany or 'F#* officeinabank,insurancecompany,lendinginstitution,public )$, utility, bank, savingsandloanassociation, lendinginstitution, N+&. insurancecompany, or any otherbusiness corporationor , ,J(0 enterprise,orventure which thatisaffectedwithapublic  interest. \ Ѐ(3)Ajudge should shallmanageinvestmentsandother X financialintereststominimizethenumberofcasesinwhich   recusalwouldberequired.Assoonaspracticablewithout `  seriousfinancialdetriment, the ajudge should shalldisposeof  \   investmentsandother thosefinancialintereststhatmight   requirefrequentrecusal. d    (4)Ajudgeshallneitherusenordisclose,infinancial `  dealingsorforanyotherpurposenotrelatedtothejudges   judicialduties,informationthatisacquired byajudge inhis h orherjudicialcapacity shouldnotbeusedordisclosedbythe d judgeinfinancialdealingsorforanyotherpurposenotrelated  tothejudgesjudicialduties andthatisconfidential, l privileged,orotherwisenotpartofthepublicrecord. h Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000  oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties  for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment p  officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle, F ! 15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions !l" governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, !B# StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords) "$ andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). #%  Committeenote.Sec.4D(1)isderivedfromABACanon5C(1) J% ' andcurrentMd.CanonXXV .  &p!(   Sec.4D(2)isderivedfromABACanon5C(2)andcurrent '#* Md.EthicsRule6.However,ABACanon5C(2)prohibitsajudge (#+ fromservingasanofficer,director,manager,advisor,or x)$, employeeofanybusiness.Only8stateshaveadoptedthat N*%- versionwithoutanychange,and7stateshaveadoptedaslightly $+t&. modifiedversion.Sec.4D(2)continuesthepresentpractice +J'/ providedincurrentMd.EthicsRule6andhasbeensubstantially , (0 adoptedinatleast15states.Atleast2otherstatesaremore -(1 permissive.Sevenstatesonlyallowajudgetoparticipateina  "family"businessor"closelyheldbusiness."     Sec.4D(3)isderivedfromABACanon5C(3)andcurrent 2 Md.CanonXXV.  X   Sec.4D(4)isderivedfromABACanon5C(7)andcurrent   Md.CanonXXV.     E.COMPENSATIONANDEXPENSEREIMBURSEMENT.   2    Ajudgemayreceivecompensationandreimbursementof   expensesforactivitiespermittedbythisCode,subjecttothe :  followingrestrictions:  6   ( 1)Compensationshouldnotexceedareasonableamountnor  shoulditexceedwhatapersonwhoisnotajudgewouldreceive > forthesameactivity.  :   (2)Expensereimbursementshouldbelimitedtotheactual  costoftravel,foodandlodgingreasonablyincurredbythejudge B and,whereappropriatetotheoccasion,bythejudge'sspouse. > Anypaymentinexcessofsuchanamountiscompensation.    Committeenote.ThisisfoundinABACanon6Aand6Bbutis F ! placedherebecauseitisrelatedtothefinancialactivitiesof !l" ajudge.  !B#  F.GIFTS. 󀀀 J% '   (1)Ajudgemustbeespeciallycarefulinacceptinggifts, &F") favors,andloansfrompersonsnotinthejudge'simmediate (#+ family.Howeverinnocentlyintended,giftsandfavorsfromsuch N*%- persons,especiallygiftsandfavorshavingsubstantialmonetary +J'/ value,maycreateanappearancethatthejudgecouldbe -(1 improperlybeholdentothedonor.Subjecttothiscaveat,and  exceptasotherwiseprohibitedorlimitedbylaworthesecanons, \ ajudgemayaccept:  X   (a)agiftincidenttoapublictestimonialorbooks   suppliedbypublishersonacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse;  `    (b)ordinarysocialhospitality;   \    (c)agiftfromafriendorrelativebyreasonofsome   specialoccasion,suchasawedding,anniversary,birthday,and d  thelike,ifthegiftisfairlycommensuratewiththenatureof `  theoccasionandthefriendshiporrelationship;      (d)agift,favor,orloanfromarelativeorclose h personalfriendwhoseappearancebeforethejudgeorwhose d interestinacasewouldrequirearecusalunderCanon3C;     (e)ascholarshiporfellowshipawardedonthesameterms l appliedtootherapplicants;  h   (f)aloanfromalendinginstitutioninitsregularcourse  ofbusinessonthesametermsgenerallyavailabletopersonswho p  arenotjudges.  !l"   (2)Thestandardssetforthinsubsection(1)ofthis "$ sectionalsoapplytogifts,favors,andloansofferedtomembers t$& ofthejudge'sfamilywhoresideinthejudge'shousehold.For  &p!( purposesofthisCanonandabsentextraordinarycircumstances, '#* gifts,favorsandloansacceptedbysuchfamilymembersshallbe x)$, consideredtobeacceptedbythejudge.  $+t&.  -(1 @HH' COMMENT   ̀ Thissectionrelatingtogiftsdoesnotapplyto \ contributionstoajudge'scampaignforjudicialoffice,amatter 2 governedbyCanon5.  X   Judgesareofteninvitedbylawyersorotherpersonsto   attendsocial,educational,orrecreationalfunctions.Inmost   cases,suchinvitationswouldfallwithintherealmofordinary `  socialhospitalityandmaybeacceptedbythejudge.Ifthereis 6   morethanatokenfeeforadmissiontothefunction,however,  \  unlessthefeeiswaivedbytheorganization,thejudgeshould  2  paythefeeandnotpermitalawyerorotherpersontopayiton   thejudge'sbehalf.     CommitteeNote.Sec.4F(1)isnewlanguagenotfoundineither :  theABACodeorthecurrentMd.Canons.  `    Sec.4F(1)(a)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(a).      Sec.4F(1)(b)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(b).  h   Sec.4F(1)(c)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(b);but d thatprovisionallowsajudgetoreceiveaweddingorengagement : giftfromanyone,whichtheCommitteebelievesisoverlybroad.     Sec.4F(1)(d)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(c), l currentMd.CanonXXXI,andcurrentMd.EthicsRule7.ThoseABA B andMd.provisionsallowajudgetoreceiveanygiftfromany h donorwhoisnotapartyorotherpersonwhoseinterestshave > comeorarelikelytocomebeforethejudge.TheCommittee  believestheseprovisionsaretoopermissive,sinceitis  difficulttoknowifaperson'sinterestswillbesubmittedto p  thejudgeinthefuture,andsinceitisunseemlyandperhaps F ! suspiciousforajudgetoacceptgiftsfornoapparentreason !l" frompersonswithwhomthejudgehaslittleornoconnectionor !B# relationship.Thisprovisionallowsajudgetoreceiveanytype "$ ofgiftfromrelativesandclosepersonalfriendswhocouldnot #% appearbeforethejudge.  t$&   Sec.4F(1)(e)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(b).   &p!(   Sec.4F(1)(f)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(b).  '#*   Sec.4F(2)isderivedfromABACanon5C(4)(b),except x)$, thatthephrase"absentextraordinarycircumstances"hasbeen N*%- added.  $+t&.   ThefirstsentenceoftheCommentaryfollowingsec.4F(2) , (0 isderivedfromtheCommentarytoABACanon5C(4)andfrom -(1 currentMd.EthicsRule7.TheremainderofthatCommentaryis  newandprovidesguidanceastothescopeof"ordinarysocial  hospitality"asusedinsec.4F(1)(b).Itisconsistentwith \ Md.JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.91(issued3/2/81),whichpermits 2 ajudgetoacceptaninvitationbyabarassociationtoabar X associationfunctionwhichotherwiserequiresapaidticketof . admission;andMd.JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.102(issued   3/21/84),whichallowsajudgetoacceptaninvitationofan   attorneytoabarassociationorothersocialfunctionwherean `  admissionfeeisnotchargedprovidedthat"thereisnoreasonto 6   suspectthattheattorneywillattempttousethejudge's  \  presenceforanyinappropriatepurpose."ABACanon5C(4)(a)  2  allowsajudgetoacceptaninvitationfromanyonetoa   bar-relatedfunctionoractivityeveniftheinviterpaysthe   admissionfeeforthejudges.  d    (5)Ajudgeshallnotaccept,andshallurge membersofthe `  judgeshousehold nottoaccept,abequest,favor, gift ,orloan ( fromanyoneexceptfor:    (a)contributionstoajudgescampaignforjudicialoffice L thatcomplywithCanon5; H   (b)abook,tape,orotherresourcematerialsuppliedbya  publisheronacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse,a gift  P incidenttoapublictestimonial,oraninvitationtoajudgeand h thejudgesspouseorguesttoattendabarrelatedfunctionor   anactivitydevotedtotheadministrationofjustice,thelegal p!" system,orimprovementofthelaw; #l$   (c)anaward,benefit,or gift incidenttothebusiness, $ & profession,orotherseparateactivityofaspouseorother &!(  memberofthejudgeshousehold ,includinganaward,benefit,or <(#*  gift fortheuseofboththehouseholdmemberandjudge(as *T%, spouseorfamilymember),iftheaward,benefit,or gift could +'. notreasonablybeperceivedasintendedtoinfluencethejudgein -(0 theperformanceofjudicialduties;    (d)ordinarysocialhospitality; \   (e)a gift fromafriendorrelative,foraspecial X occasion,suchasananniversary,birthday,orwedding,ifthe    gift isfairlycommensuratewiththeoccasionandthefriendship |  orrelationship; D     (f)abequest,favor, gift ,orloanfromarelativeor @  closepersonalfriendwhoseappearanceorinterestinacase   wouldinanyeventrequirearecusalunderCanon3D; d    (g)aloanfromalendinginstitutioninitsregularcourse ` ofbusinessonthesametermsgenerallyavailabletopersonswho   arenotjudges; h   (h)afellowshiporscholarshipawardedonthesameterms d andbasedonthesamecriteriaappliedtootherapplicants;or    (i)anyotherbequest,favor, gift ,orloanif:(1)the l donororlenderisnotapersonwhoseinterestshavecomeorare 4 likelytocomebeforethejudgeand(2)thejudgereports,onthe 0  judgesfinancialdisclosureform,allbequests,favors, gifts , !" andloansrequiredunderRule16815tobereported. T#$ @HH'COMMENT %&!'   Howeverinnocentlyintended,favorsor gifts frompersons '") notinajudgesimmediatefamilymaycreateanappearancethat f(#* thejudgecouldbeimproperlybeholdentothedonor. <)$+   Similarly,abequest,favor, gift ,orloantoa memberof *8&- thejudgeshousehold mightbeviewedasintendedtoinfluence +'. thejudge.Therefore,ajudgemustinformthosehousehold ,(/ membersoftherelevantethicalconstraintsonthejudgeinthis -(0 regardanddiscouragethosehouseholdmembersfromviolatingthe \.)1 constraints.However,ajudgecannotreasonablybeexpectedto   know orcontrolallofthebusinessandfinancialactivitiesof  all membersofthejudgeshousehold . j   Canon4D(5)(b)and(i)governs,respectively,acceptanceof $t aninvitationtoalawrelatedfunctionandofaninvitationpaid J forbyanindividuallawyerorgroupoflawyers.     Ajudgemayacceptapublictestimonial,ora gift incident |  thereto,onlyifthedonorisnotanorganizationwhosemembers `   compriseorfrequentlyrepresentthesamesideinlitigation,and 6   thetestimonialor gift complieswithotherprovisionsofthis  \  Code.XXXXSee#XXXXX#ԀCanons2Band4A(1). @    A gift thatismadetoajudge,ora memberofthejudges   household ,andisexcessiveinvalueraisesquestionsaboutthe   judges impartiality andtheintegrityofthejudicialofficeand d  mightrequirerecusalofthejudge.See,however,Canon4D H (5)(f). n  G. E. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES. L   Ajudgeshouldnotserveasafiduciaryexceptinthe d followinginstances.Ajudgemayserveasapersonal  representative(executororadministrator)orspecial l administratoroftheestateofadecedent,asatrusteeofa h trust,asacustodian,asaguardian,orasanattorneyinfact  ! butonlywherethejudgeisspouse,thesurvivingspouseoris p"# relatedwithinthethirddegree(accordingtothecivillaw $l% system)tothedecedent,grantor,minorordisabledperson.A %!' judgeactuallyservingasatrusteeofatrustonDecember31, t'") 1969,maycontinuetoserveevenifnotwithintherequired  )p$+ degreeofrelationship.Inextraordinarycases,ajudgemay *&- serveasguardianorattorneyinfactforanyotherpersonwith x,'/ whomthejudgemaintainsaclosefamilialrelationship,butonly $.t)1 ifthereisnootherpersonready,willingandabletoservein  thatcapacity.Whileactingasafiduciaryajudgeissubjectto \ thesamerestrictionsonfinancialactivitiesthatapplytothe X judgepersonally.      (1)(a)ExceptasprovidedinCanon4E(1)andthenonly `  subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeandstatutes,ajudge  \  shallnotserveasa fiduciary .     (b)Ajudgemayserveasa fiduciary fora memberofthe   judgesfamily . H  Ѐ(c)Ajudgewhohasservedasatrusteeofatrustsince ` December31,1969,maycontinuetodosoasallowedbylaw.     (2)Ajudgeshallnotagreetoserveasa fiduciary ifitis h likelythat,asa fiduciary ,thejudgewillbeengagedin 0 proceedingsthatordinarilywouldcomebeforethejudgeorifthe H estate,trust,orwardbecomesinvolvedinadversaryproceedings  inthecourtonwhichthejudgeservesorinacourtunderthe P appellatejurisdictionofthecourtonwhichthejudgeserves. L    (3)Therestrictionsthatapplytopersonalfinancial !" activitiesofajudgealsoapplytothejudges fiduciary  T#$ financialactivities. %l & @HH'COMMENT &"(   Ajudge'sobligationunderthiscanonandasafiduciarymay t(#* comeintoconflict.Forexample,ajudgeshouldresignas J)$+ trusteeifitwouldresultindetrimenttothetrusttodivestit  *p%, ofholdingswhoseretentionwouldplacethejudgeinviolationof *F&- Canon4D(3). TheTimeforComplianceprovisionofthisCode +'. (Canon6D)postponesthetimeforcompliancewithcertain ,'/ provisionsofCanon4Einsomecases. x-(0  N.)1 ЇCommitteenote: Sec.4GisderivedfromABACanon5D,with  substantialmodifications.Secs.5-105(b)(5)and14-104ofMd.  CodeAnn.,EstatesandTrustsArticle,prohibitajudgefrom \ servingasapersonalrepresentativeortrusteeforsomeonewho 2 isnotaspouseorrelatedwithinthethirddegree(althougha X judgeservingastrusteeasof12/31/69isallowedtocontinuein . thatcapacity).MarylandlawandtheexistingMarylandcanonsdo   notprohibitajudgefromservingasanyothertypeoffiduciary   foranyone.(JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.60erroneouslyassumes `  thatMarylandstatutorylawprohibitsajudgefromservingasa 6   guardianofthepropertyofadisabledperson.ButseeUnreported  \  OpinionDocketNo.82-10).ABACanon5Dallowsajudgetoserve  2  asafiduciaryonlyfora"spouse,child,grandchild,parent,   grandparent,orotherrelativeorpersonwithwhomthejudge   maintainsaclosefamilialrelationship."Ascanbeseen,theABA d  canonismorepermissivethanMarylandlawastopersonal :  representativesandtrustees,butismorerestrictivethan `  MarylandlaworexistingMarylandcanonsastoothertypesof 6 fiduciaries.TheCommitteebelievesthatajudge'seligibilityas   afiduciaryshouldbeverylimited,becauseofthenecessityor  likelihoodofthejudgehavingtoappearincourtorbeunder h courtsupervisionasarepresentativeofaparty.Thelimitations > imposedbythelegislatureastopersonalrepresentativesand d trusteesappearedtotheCommitteetobeappropriatefor : guardiansandcustodians.TheCommitteerecognizesthe  exceptionalsituationwherethejudgeshouldbeallowedtoactas  aguardianorattorneyinfactforadisabledpersonwhoisnota l nearrelativebutwithwhomthejudgehasacloserelationship, B andnooneelseiswillingtoundertakethatpersonal h responsibility.  >   ABACanon5D(1)providesthatajudge"shouldnotserveif  itislikelythatasafiduciaryhewillbeengagedin p  proceedingsthatwouldordinarilycomebeforehim,orifthe F ! estate,trust,orwardbecomesinvolvedinadversaryproceedings !l" inthecourtonwhichheservesoroneunderitsappellate !B# jurisdiction."TheCommitteeagreesthatordinarilyajudge "$ shouldnotundertakeafiduciarypositionifadversary #% proceedingsinthejudge'scourtarelikelytooccur;however, t$& theCommitteebelievesthatthisABAprovision,whichwould J% ' requireresignationwhenevertheestateortrustbecameinvolved  &p!( inadversaryproceedings,istooinflexible. &F") TheCommentarytosec.4GisderivedfromtheCommentarytoABA '#* Canon5D. 󀀀 (#+   Code,EstatesandTrustsArticle,5105(b)(5)and14104 N*%- prohibitajudgefromservingasapersonalrepresentativeor $+t&. trusteeforsomeonewhoisnotaspouseorwithinthe third +J'/ degreeofrelationship (althoughajudgeservingastrusteeasof ,.(0 12/31/69isallowedtocontinueinthatcapacity).Neitherthe -)1 1987MarylandCodeofJudicialConductnoranyotherMarylandlaw  explicitlyprohibitsajudgefromservingasanyothertypeof   fiduciary foranyone. \  H. F. ARBITRATION SERVICEASARBITRATORORMEDIATOR.     Ajudge should shallnotactasanarbitratorormediatoror n  otherwiseperformjudicialfunctionsinaprivatecapacityunless  j  expresslyauthorizedbylaw.   @HH'COMMENT H  ̀ This Canon4Fdoesnotprecludeajudgefromparticipating D insettlementconferences.Ifbyreasonofdisclosuremade  duringorasaresultof the aconference, the ajudge's   impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned,thejudgeshouldnot v  further participateinthematterfurther.SeeCanon 3C(1) 3D Z (1). 0   Sec.HisderivedfromABACanon5E.CurrentMd.CanonXXX , allowsajudgetoactasanarbitratorormediatorpursuanttoa  contractinforceonJanuary1,1975.TheCommitteeassumesthat  nosuchcontractisstilloperative.Ifotherwise,thejudge ^ shouldmakethisknowntotheCommittee.  4  Committeenote.TheCommentarytosec.Hisnew.  0  I. G.PRACTICEOFLAW. 8!"   (1)(a)Exceptasprovidedinsubsection(b),ajudgeshould "4$ notpracticelaw.  $&   (b)Apart-timejudgeoftheOrphans'Courtmaypractice <&!( lawtotheextentpermittedbylaw,exceptthatthejudgeshall '8#* avoidconductwherebysuchjudicialpositionisusedorseemsto )$, beusedtofurthersuccessinthepracticeoflaw;andinno @+&. eventshouldthejudgepracticeinthecourtinwhichthejudge ,<(0 sits,evenwhenpresidedoverbyanotherjudge,norappear  thereinproseinanycontroversy.  \   (2)Priortoqualificationforjudicialoffice,ajudgewho X intendstoenterintoanagreementunder1-203(b)oftheMd.   CodeAnn.,CourtsandJudicialProceedingsArticle,forpayments `  relatingtothejudge'sformerlawpracticeshouldsubmitthe  \  agreementtotheJudicialEthicsCommitteesothattheCommittee   mayreviewitastothereasonablenessofthetimeprovidedfor d  paymentstobemadeundertheagreement.Apaymentperiod `  limitedtoamaximumoffiveyearsorlessispresumptively   reasonable.Alongerpaymentperiodispermittedonlywiththe h Committee'spriorapprovalastoitsreasonableness.  d   (3)Anagreemententeredintounder1-203(b)ofMd.Code  Ann.,CourtsandJudicialProceedingsArticle,maynotbeamended l withoutthepriorapprovaloftheJudicialEthicsCommittee.  h   (4)Thesesubsectionsareapplicabletoanyagreement  enteredintounder1-203(b)ofMd.CodeAnn.,Courtsand p  JudicialProceedingsArticle,onandafterJuly1,1981.  !l"   (1)ExceptasallowedbyCanon4G,ajudgeshallnot "$ practicelaw.Notwithstandingthisprohibition,ajudgemayact t$& proseinamatterinvolvingthejudgeorthejudgesinterest  &p!( and,ifwithoutcompensation,maygivelegaladvicetoanddraft '(#* orreviewdocumentsfora memberofthejudgesfamily .  )$,   (2)(a)Totheextentexpresslyallowedbylawandsubject L+&. tootherapplicableprovisionsofthisCode,aparttimejudgeof ,H(0 anorphanscourtmaypracticelaw.  Crossreference:SeeCode,EstatesandTrustsArticle,2109 \ forrestrictionsonthepracticeoflawbyaparttimejudgeof 2 anorphanscourt. X    ` (b)Ajudgeofanorphanscourtshallavoidconduct   wherebythejudgeusesorseemstousethejudicialofficeto `  furthersuccessinthepracticeoflaw.  \     ` (c)Ajudgeofanorphanscourtshallnotpractice,   orappearasanindividualinamatterinvolvingthejudgeorthe d  judgesinterest,inthecourtonwhichthejudgeserves,even `  whenanotherjudgeispresiding.    Committeenote.Sec.4I(a)isderivedfromABACanon5Fand d currentMd.CanonXXX.  :   Sec.4I(b)isderivedfromparagraphAoftheCompliance  SectionoftheABACodeandcurrentMd.CanonXXX.  l   Secs.4I(2),(3),and(4)arederivedfromcurrentMd. h EthicsRule5A.a.,b.,andc.,respectively.  > @HH'COMMENT p    Canon4G(1)limitsthepracticeoflawinarepresentative !l" capacitybutnotinaprosecapacity.Ajudgemayactfor !B# himselforherselfinalllegalmatters,includingmatters "$ involvinglitigationandmattersinvolvingappearancesbeforeor #% otherdealingswithlegislativeandothergovernmentalbodies. z$& However,insodoing,ajudgemustnotabusetheprestigeof P% ' officeforanyreason,includingadvancementofaninterestof &&v!( thejudgeorthejudgesfamily.SeeCanons2Band4C(1). &L")   ThisCodeallowsajudgetogivelegaladviceto,anddraft (#+ legaldocumentsfor,a memberofthejudgesfamily .However, ~)$, exceptforaparttimeorphanscourtjudgeallowedtopractice b*%- law,ajudgemustnotreceiveanycompensationfrom,oractasan 8+&. advocateornegotiatorfor,a memberofthejudgesfamily ina ,^'/ legalmatter. ,B(0  -)1 ЇH.COMPENSATIONANDREIMBURSEMENT.    Unlessotherwiseprohibitedbylaw,ajudgemayreceive \ compensationandreimbursementofexpensesforextrajudicial X activitiespermittedbythisCodeif:     (1)thesourceofcompensationorreimbursementdoesnot `  givetheappearanceofimpropriety;  \    (2)thecompensationdoesnotexceedareasonableamount   anddoesnotexceedtheamountapersonwhoisnotajudge d  ordinarilywouldreceiveforthesameactivity;and `    (3)theexpensereimbursementislimitedtotheactualcost   offood,lodging,andtravelreasonablyincurredbyajudgeand, h ifappropriatetotheoccasion,bythejudgesspouseorguest. d @HH'COMMENT    Acceptanceofan  honorarium ,asdefinedinCode,State B GovernmentArticle,15102(r),isgovernedbyCode,State &v GovernmentArticle,15505.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.128 L (issuedFebruary2,2000). "   Ajudgemustdisclosefinancialmatterssuchasdebtsor ~  income,investments,orotherassets,onlytotheextentrequired T ! byCanon4H,byCanon3DorE,orbylaw.SeeCode,State *!z" GovernmentArticle,15610. "P#   $& @HH'CANON5  @!PoliticalActivity \ A.POLITICALCONDUCTOFJUDGEWHOISNOTCANDIDATE.     (1)Ajudgewhoisnotacandidateforelection , or `  re-election , toorretention to inajudicialoffice should shall  \  notengageinanypartisanpoliticalactivity andshouldresign   judicialofficewhenbecomingacandidateforanonjudicial d  office,exceptthatthejudgemaycontinuetoholdjudicial `  officewhileacandidateforelectiontoorservingasadelegate   inastateconstitutionalconvention . h ! !  (2) ` (a)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon5A(2)(b),a d judgeshallresignwhenthejudgebecomesacandidatefora  non-judicialoffice. l    ` (b)Ajudgemaycontinuetoholdjudicialofficewhile h acandidateforelectionto,ordelegatein,aMaryland  constitutionalconvention. p  Committeenote: ABACanon7A,currentMd.CanonXXVII,and !l" currentMd.EthicsRule3generallyprohibitpartisanpolitical !B# activitybyajudgewhoisnotacandidateforjudicialoffice. "$ TheresignationrequirementisfoundinABACanon7A(3),current #% Md.CanonXXIX,andcurrentMd.EthicsRule4.ABACanon7A(3) t$& allowsajudgetoserveasastateconstitutionalconvention J% ' delegateifallowedbylaw.Suchadelegateisnotan"office"  &p!( whichArticle33oftheMd.DeclarationofRightsprohibitsa &F") judgefromholding.Boardv.AttorneyGeneral,246Md.417 '#* (1967). Canon5A(2)oftheMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct (#+ adoptedbytheAmericanBarAssociationin2000allowsajudgeto ~)$, serveasastateconstitutionalconventiondelegateifallowedby T*%- law.Suchadelegatedoesnotholdan"office,whichMaryland *+z&. DeclarationofRights,Article33wouldprohibitajudgefrom ,P'/ holding.SeeBoardv.AttorneyGeneral,246Md.417(1967). ,&(0  -)1 ЇB.POLITICALCONDUCTOF A JUDGEWHOISCANDIDATE.    (1)Ajudgewhoisacandidateforelection , orre-election ,  \ toorretention to inajudicialofficemayengageinpartisan X politicalactivityallowedbylawwithrespecttosuchcandidacy,   exceptthatthejudge: `     ` (1) (a)shallmaintainthedignityappropriateto  \  judicialofficeandactinamannerconsistentwiththe    impartiality ,independence,andintegrityofthejudiciary; d     ` (b) should shallnotactasaleaderorhold any an ,|  officeina politicalorganization ; (    ` (2) (c) should shallnotmake speeches aspeechfora  candidateor politicalorganization orcandidate orpublicly L endorseacandidatefornon-judicialoffice; d @HH'COMMENT    Ajudgedoesnotpubliclyendorseacandidateforpublic B officebyhavingthejudgesnameonthesameticket. h    ` (3) (d) shouldmaintainthedignityappropriateto  ! judicialoffice withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissue F"# thatislikelytocomebeforethecourt,shallnotmakea #B% commitment,pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwiththe % '  impartial performanceoftheadjudicativedutiesoftheoffice; J'") @HH'COMMENT )8%,   Canon5B(1)(d)doesnotprohibitacandidatefrommakinga +&. commitment,pledge,orpromiserespectingimprovementsincourt j,'/ administrationorthefaithfuland impartial performanceofthe @-(0 dutiesoftheoffice.  $.t)1 Ї   ` (e)shallnot knowingly misrepresenthisorher  identityorqualifications,theidentityorqualificationsofan x opponent,oranyotherfact;and $t    ` (4) (f) should shallnotallowanyotherpersontodo   forthejudgewhatthejudgeisprohibitedfromdoing ; . |     ` (5)shouldnotmakepledgesorpromisesofconductin ( x  officeotherthanthefaithfulandimpartialperformanceofthe $  dutiesoftheoffice,announcethejudgesviewsondisputed   legalorpoliticalissues,ormisrepresentthejudgesidentity, ,|  qualifications,orotherfact.  (   (2)Acandidateforajudicialofficemayrespondtoa  personalattackoranattackonthecandidatesrecordaslongas 0 theresponsedoesnotviolateCanon5B(1). , Committeenote: Sec.5B(1)isderivedfromABACanon7A(1)  (a),currentMd.CanonXXVII,andcurrentMd.EthicsRule3. ^ Sec.5B(2)isderivedfromABACanon7A(1)(b)andcurrentMd. 4 CanonXXVII,althoughtheABAlanguageprobablyisbroadenough  Z eventoprohibitajudgefromendorsinganotherjudgewhoisalso 0 acandidate.However,publicendorsementbyonejudicial  candidateofanotherjudicialcandidatehaslongbeenpermitted   inMaryland.SeeMd.JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.20(issued b ! 4/25/74).  8!"   TheCommentarytosec.5B(2)isderivedfromtheCommentary "4$ toABACanon7A(1)(b)andisconsistentwithMd.Judicial # % EthicsOpinionNo.109(issued2/14/86).  $&   Sec.5B(3)isderivedfromABACanon7B(1)(a).Thatcanon <&!( alsoprovidesthatajudgeshouldencouragefamilymembersto 'b") adheretothesamestandardsofpoliticalconductthatapplyto '8#* thejudge.TheCommitteedisagreeswiththisproposition;it ($+ believesthatfamilymembersshouldbefreetoengagein )$, politicalactivityintheirownrightwhichisnotrelatedtothe j*%- judge'soffice.  @+&.   Sec.5B(4)isderivedfromABACanon7B(1)(b)andis ,<(0 generallyimpliedincurrentMd.CanonXXIXandcurrentMd. -)1 EthicsRule10.ABACanon7B(1)(b)alsoprovidesthatajudge  shouldprohibitpublicofficialsoremployeessubjecttothe  judge'sdirectionandcontrolfordoingforthejudgewhatthe \ judgeisprohibitedfromdoing.TheCommitteebelievesthatthis 2 isredundanttotheremainderofthesubsectionandmayeven X implythatajudgemustterminatetheemploymentofapersonwho . doesnotfollowthejudge'sadmonitions-aresultwhichmaybe   unreasonableunderthecircumstances.      Sec.5B(5)isderivedfromABACanon7B(1)(c)andcurrent 6   Md.CanonXXIX.   \    ABACanon7B(2)prohibitsajudgefrompersonally   solicitingoracceptingcampaignfundsorsolicitingpublicly   statedsupport;however,thejudgemayestablish"committeesof d  responsiblepersons"todothesethingsforthejudge.The :  Committeebelievesthatthisistoorestrictiveandpolitically `  unrealistic,sinceitputsthejudgeatadistinctdisadvantage 6 toactiveopposition.Marylandlawdoesrequireallcampaign   fundstobepubliclyreportedbythecampaigntreasurer.     ABACanon7permitspartisanpoliticalactivitybyajudge > whoisacandidateforretentionwithoutacompetingcandidate d onlyifthejudge'scandidacyhasdrawn"activeopposition." : However,Md.JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.88(issued8/29/80)  statedthatsuchaview"wouldnotberealistic,since...even  intheabsenceofanactivecampaignagainstthejudge,negative l votesmightbecastagainstthejudge'scontinuanceinoffice,as B wasthecaseinthe1978generalelection."Theopinion h concludedthattheexceptioninthecanonswhichpermitted > politicalactivitybyjudgesseekingelectionis"equally  applicable"toappellatejudgesstandingforretentionunder  non-competitiveelectionprocedures.TheCommitteesupportsthis p  conclusion.  F !   Canon5A(1)(b)oftheModelCodeofJudicialConduct !B# adoptedbytheAmericanBarAssociationin2000( ABACode "$ (2000))probablyisbroadenougheventoprohibitajudgefrom #% endorsinganotherjudgewhoisalsoacandidate,public t$& endorsementbyonejudicialcandidateofanotherjudicial J% ' candidatehaslongbeenpermittedinMaryland.SeeMaryland  &p!( JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.20(issued4/25/74). &F")   ABACode(2000),Canon5A(1)(d),whichbarsattendanceofa (#+ judgecandidateatpoliticalgatherings,isomittedasnot x)$, consistentwithMarylandJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.63(issued N*%- 5/8/78),whichrecognizedthat anypotentialopponents...would $+t&. clearlytakeadvantageofthistypeofexposure[and]...itis +J'/ neitherdesirablenornecessarythatyou,asacandidatefor , (0 election,bedeniedsimilaropportunity. -(1 Ї  ABACode(2000),Canon5A(1)(e)andC(2)prohibitsajudge  frompersonallysolicitingoracceptingcampaignfundsor  personallysolicitingpubliclystatedsupport;however,ajudge \ mayestablish committeesofresponsiblepersonstodothese 2 thingsforthejudge.TheJudicialEthicsandtheRules X Committeebelievethatthisprohibitionmaybetoorestrictive, . sinceitputsajudgeatapoliticaldisadvantagetoactive   opposition.Marylandlawdoesrequireallcampaignfundstobe   publiclyreportedbythecampaigntreasurer. `    TheJudicialEthicsandtheRulesCommitteedisagreewith  \  thepropositioninABACode(2000),Canon5A(3)(a)XXXX,#XXXX&[#Ԁwhichstates  2  thatfamilymembersofajudgeshouldadheretothesame   standardsofpoliticalconductasajudgewhoisacandidatefor   judicialoffice.TheCommitteesbelievethatfamilymembers d  shouldbefreetoengage,intheirownright,inpolitical :  activitythatisnotrelatedtothejudgesoffice. `    ABACode(2000),Canon5A(3)(b)requiresthatajudge   prohibitpublicofficialsandemployeessubjecttothejudge's  directionandcontrolfromdoingforthejudgewhatthejudgeis h prohibitedfromdoing.TheCommitteesbelievethatthisis > redundantandmayevenimplythatajudgemustterminatethe d employmentofanindividualwhodoesnotfollowthejudge's : admonitions!aresultthatmaybeunreasonableunderthe  circumstances.  C.STATUSOF A JUDGEORLAWYERAS A CANDIDATE.    Anewlyappointedjudgeisa"candidate"forjudicialoffice p  fromthedateoftakingofficeuntilthegeneralelection !l" pertainingtothatjudge'selectionorinitialretention.Any "$ otherincumbentjudgeisa"candidate"foraperiodcommencing t$& twoyearspriortothegeneralelectionpertainingtothat  &p!( judge'sre-electionorsubsequentretention,orwhenanewly '#* appointedjudgetothatcourtbecomesa"candidate"inthesame x)$, generalelection,whicheverfirstoccurs.Ajudgewhoisseeking $+t&. electiontoanotherjudicialofficeisa"candidate"forthat , (0 officewhenthejudgefilesacertificateofcandidacyin  accordancewiththestateelectionlaws,butnoearlierthantwo \ yearspriortothegeneralelectionforthatoffice,orwhena X newlyappointedjudgetothatcourtbecomesa"candidate"inthe   samegeneralelection,whicheverfirstoccurs.  `     Candidateappliestoanindividualseekingtobeelected  \  toortoretainajudicialoffice:   Ѐ(1)astoanewlyappointedjudge,fromthedateoftaking d  theoathofofficeuntilthegeneralelectionpertainingtothat `  judge'selectionorinitialretention;   Ѐ(2)astoanyotherincumbentjudge,fromtheearlierof: h    ` (a)thedatetwoyearspriortothegeneralelection d pertainingtothatjudge'sre-electionorsubsequentretention;  or l    ` (b)thedateonwhichanewlyappointedjudgetothat h courtbecomesa"candidate"inthesamegeneralelection;    (3)astoajudgewhoisseekingelectiontoanother p  judicialoffice,theearlierof: !l"    ` (a)thedateonwhichthejudgefilesacertificateof "$ candidacyinaccordancewithMarylandelectionlaws,butno t$& earlierthantwoyearspriortothegeneralelectionforthat  &p!( office;or '#*    ` (b)thedateonwhichanewlyappointedjudgetothat x)$, courtbecomesa"candidate"inthesamegeneralelection;and $+t&.   (4)astoalawyerwhoisseekingajudicialoffice,the , (0 dateonwhichthelawyerfilesacertificateofcandidacyin  accordancewithMarylandelectionlaws,butnoearlierthantwo \ yearspriortothegeneralelectionfortheoffice. X Committeenote:MarylandJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.14(issued   5/23/74)allowsajudgetobegincampaigningasacandidate   immediatelyuponassumptionofoffice.Thelongestpossible `  campaignperiodwouldbeonedaylessthanthreeyears.See 6   MarylandConstitution,ArticleIV, sec. 5 oftheConstitutionof  \  Maryland . Md. MarylandJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.34(issued  2  7/7/75),whichhadallowedanincumbentjudgeto begin   campaigning campaignforre-electiononlyfromJanuary1ofthe   yearoftheelection .This ,wasfoundtobetoorestrictive,so d   thecampaignperiodwaschanged MarylandJudicialEthicsOpinion :  No.57(issued11/28/77)changedtheperiodto timeswhichare `  reasonableundertheparticularcircumstancesofeachcase." Md. 6 JudicialEthicsOpinionNo.57(issued11/28/77). TheJudicial   EthicsCommittee believes believedthatthelatterstandard is   wastoovague,and that theCourtofAppealspermittedan h incumbentjudge shouldbepermitted tocampaignassoonasthe > precedinggeneralelection has ended,whichisatwo-yearperiod, d orearlierifanewlyappointedjudge,whowillbearunningmate : oftheincumbentjudge, has alreadyhasbecomeacandidate. ABA  Canon7A(2)considersanincumbentjudgewhoseofficeisfilled  byelectionbetweencompetingcandidatesasalwaysacandidate l forre-election.Whilethismaybeapoliticalnecessityfor B judgesinsomestateswhomuststandforre-electionfrequently, h theCommitteebelievesthisisinappropriateinMaryland,where > circuitcourtjudgesareelectedfor15-yeartermsandappellate  judgesareretainedfor10-yearterms.     Ajudgeshouldbepermittedtoengageinpoliticalactivity F ! regardingthejudge'scandidacyforjudicialofficeonlyifthe !l" judge'sintentiontopursuethatcandidacyisclear.An !B# incumbentjudge'scandidacyforelectionorre-electionisfairly "$ obvious,butajudge'sintentiontoseekanotherjudicialoffice #% isnotasclear;therefore,thefilingofacertificateof t$& candidacyisrequiredinthelattersituation. J% ' D.APPLICABILITY;DISCIPLINE. (#+   AcandidatewhoisajudgeshallcomplywithCanon5.A N*%- candidatewhoisalawyershallcomplywithRule8.2ofthe +J'/ MarylandRulesofProfessionalConduct.Asuccessfulcandidate -(1 andajudgewhounsuccessfullysoughtadifferentjudicialoffice  aresubjecttojudicialdisciplineforcampaignconduct.An \ unsuccessfulcandidatewhoisalawyerissubjecttoattorney X disciplineforcampaignconduct.   Crossreference:SeeRules16802through16810concerning `  judicialdisciplineandRules16701through16781concerning 6   attorneydiscipline.  \    :  @&CANON6  ЀCompliance \ A.ThisCode ofJudicialConduct appliestoeachjudgeofthe   CourtofAppeals,theCourtofSpecialAppeals, theCircuit `  Courts acircuitcourt,theDistrictCourt andtheOrphans  \  Courts ,oranorphans'court.    Committeenote.Sec.6AisderivedfromcurrentMd.EthicsRule d  14a.  :  B.Violationofanyofthe provisionsofthisCodeofJudicial   Conduct Canonsbyajudgemayberegardedasconductprejudicial h totheproperadministrationofjusticewithinthemeaningof d MarylandRule16-803(j), oftheRulesconcerning astothe  CommissiononJudicialDisabilities. l Committeenote: Sec.6BisderivedfromcurrentMd.EthicsRule > 15,whichprovidesthataviolationofanEthicsRuleisconduct  prejudicialtotheproperadministrationofjustice. Whether the   aviolation actually isorisnotprejudicialconductistobe p  determinedbytheCourtofAppealsofMaryland. ArticleIV,Sec. F ! 4BoftheMd.Constitution MarylandConstitution,ArticleIV,4B !l" givesthatCourttheauthoritytodisciplineanyjudgeupon !B# recommendationoftheCommissiononJudicialDisabilities.This "$ disciplinarypowerisalternativetoandcumulativewiththe #% impeachmentauthorityoftheGeneralAssembly. t$& C.ThisCode ofJudicialConduct ,otherthanCanon4C &F") (Charitable,Civic,andGovernmentalActivities),D(2)(Financial (#+ Activities),E( Fiduciary Activities),andF(Serviceas N*%- ArbitratororMediator),appliestoeachjudgeofoneofthose ,f'/ courtswho hasresignedorretired,ifthejudgeissubjectto -)1 and isapprovedforrecallfortemporaryserviceunder Article  IV,Section3AoftheConstitution,exceptthatCanon4C(Civil \ andCharitableActivities);Canon4D(FinancialActivities)! X paragraphs(1),(2),and(3);Canon4G(FiduciaryActivities);   andCanon4H(Arbitration)donotapplytoanysuchformerjudge  `  MarylandConstitution,ArticleIV,3A.  \   Committeenote.Sec.6CisderivedfromcurrentMd.EthicsRule   14b.(1).      ParagraphCoftheComplianceSectionoftheABACode :  exemptsaretiredjudgesubjecttorecallfromonlyoneprovision `  oftheABACode:Theprovisionwhichprohibitsajudgefrom 6 servingonagovernmentalcommissionconcernedwithmattersother   thanimprovementofthelaw,legalsystem,ortheadministration  ofjustice.  h D.AnindividualtowhomthisCodebecomesapplicableshall  complyimmediatelywithallprovisionsofthisCodeexcept:Canon l 2C(AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety), h Canon4D(2)(FinancialActivities),andCanon4E( Fiduciary   Activities).TheindividualshallcomplywithCanons2Cand4D   (2)andEassoonasreasonablypossible,andshalldosoinany 8!" eventastoCanon2CwithintwoyearsandastoCanon4D(2)and "4$ Ewithinoneyear. $&   'b") @& CANON7 󀀈  @ JudicialEthicsCommittee  2  A.TheChiefJudgeoftheCourtofAppealsshallappoint   annuallyanEthicsCommitteeconsistingofnotlessthanseven `  andnotmorethanninemembers.Onemembershallbeappointed  \  fromeachoftheCourtofSpecialAppeals,theCircuitCourts,   andtheDistrictCourt.Threemembersmaynotbejudgesandof d  theseonemaynotbealawyeroranemployeeorofficerwithin `  thejudicialbranchofgovernment.Theremainingmembersshall   bejudgesappointedfromanyoftheabovecourts,butnotfrom h theCourtofAppeals.TheChiefJudgeshalldesignateoneofthe d membersaschairperson.     Inadditiontoitsotherduties,theCommittee  l   (1)isdesignatedasthebodytogiveadvicewithrespectto h theapplicationoftheprovisionsofSubtitles5and6ofTitle  15oftheStateGovernmentArticle,AnnotatedCodeofMaryland, p  toStateofficialsoftheJudicialBranchasdefinedinTitle15 !l" oftheStateGovernmentArticle;and  "$   (2)shallfromtimetotimesubmittotheCourtofAppeals t$& recommendationsfornecessaryordesirablechangesintheCodeof  &p!( JudicialConduct,andtheCodeofConductforJudicial '#* Appointees.  x)$,  B.AnyjudgemayinwritingrequesttheopinionoftheCommittee $+t&. ontheproperinterpretationoftheCodeofJudicialConductas , (0 containedinRule16-813,orastotheprovisionsofSubtitle5  or6ofTitle15oftheStateGovernmentArticle,AnnotatedCode \ ofMaryland.Ajudgewhohasrequestedanopinionandwhoisin X compliancewiththatopinionisprotectedfromachargeof   violationofCodeorstatuteconstruedinthatopinion.  `   C.AjudgeoranypersonwhoissubjecttotheCodeforJudicial  \  AppointeesascontainedinRule16-814mayinwritingrequestthe   opinionoftheCommitteeontheproperinterpretationofthe d  Code.Apersonwhohasrequestedanopinionandwhoisin `  compliancewithitisprotectedfromachargeofviolationofthe   Codeconstruedinthatopinion.  h  D.Anyperson,otherthanajudge,whoisaStateofficialof d theJudicialBranchwithinthemeaningofthattermasusedin  15-104(2)oftheStateGovernmentArticle,AnnotatedCodeof l Maryland,mayinwritingrequesttheopinionoftheCommitteeon h theproperinterpretationofSubtitle5or6ofTitle15ofthe  StateGovernmentArticle.Thepersonwhorequestsanopinionand p  whoisincompliancewithitisprotectedfromachargeof !l" violationofthestatuteconstruedinthatopinion.  "$  E.Everyopinionissuedpursuanttothisruleshallbefiled t$& withtheSecretaryoftheMarylandJudicialConference.Thefiled  &p!( opinionisconfidentialandnotpublicinformationunlessthe '#* CourtofAppealsotherwisedirects.However,theSecretaryshall x)$, prepareaneditedversionofeachopinion,inwhichtheidentity $+t&. ofthepersonwhohasrequestedtheopinion,thespecificcourt , (0 orgeographicallocationofthatperson,andtheidentityof  otherindividuals,organizationsorgroupsmentionedinthe \ opinion,maynotbedisclosed.Editedopinionsshallbe X publishedinthemannertheSecretarydeemsproper.     Committeenote.Canon7isderivedfromcurrentMd.EthicsRule 6   16.   \   Crossreferences.SeeRule16-802(TheMarylandJudicial   Conference).    ЀSource:ThisRuleisderivedinpartfromformerRule1231... :  [allsubsequentlanguageintheproposedSourcenoteisnew]. `    6 @ MARYLANDRULESOFPROCEDURE  @ TITLE16COURTS,JUDGES,ANDATTORNEYS \ @ CHAPTER800MISCELLANEOUS X    `    AMENDRule16814,asfollows: `  Rule16814.MARYLANDCODEOFCONDUCTFORJUDICIALAPPOINTEES  2  @  &Preamble d    TheCourtofAppealshasadoptedthisCodeofConductfor `   JudicialAppointees assetforthinthisRuleisadoptedasa   RuleofthisCourtgoverning togoverntheconductofall   judicialappointees . ForpurposesofthisRule,judicial 0 appointeesaredefinedas:amaster,examiner,auditor,referee H appointedbytheCourtofAppealsofMaryland,theCourtof  SpecialAppealsofMaryland,acircuitcourtoranOrphans P Court;oracommissionerappointedbytheAdministrativeJudgeof L theDistrictCourtofMarylandsubjecttotheapprovalofthe   ChiefJudgeoftheDistrictCourtofMaryland. ThisCodeis T!" generallypatternedaftertheMarylandCodeofJudicialConduct, #P$ setforthinRule16813,andtheCommitteenotes,followingmany $& oftheprovisionsofthatCode,explainthoseprovisionsandmay X&!( beofassistanceintheinterpretationofparallelprovisionsof (T#* thisCode. )%,   ThisCodesetsforthminimumstandardsandisnotintended \+&. asalimitationonanappointingauthorityspowertoimpose -X(0 additionalrequirements.   Committeenote:(1)Theseareminimumstandardsandarenot 2 intendedasalimitationontheappointingauthority'spowerto X imposeadditionalrequirements;and(2)ThisCodeofConductis . generallypatternedafterMarylandRule16813,theCodeof   JudicialConduct.TheCommitteenotesfoundappendedthereto   explainmanyprovisionsoftheCodeofJudicialConductandmay `  beusedtoassistintheinterpretationofparallelprovisionsof 6   thisCodeofConduct.   \     2  @XX%Terminology    InthisCodethefollowingdefinitionsapplyexceptas \ expresslyotherwiseprovidedorasnecessaryimplication X requires:   Ѐ(a)Fiduciary `      Fiduciary includesadministrator,attorneyinfactby  \  powerofattorney,executor,guardian,personalrepresentative, $  andtrustee.   Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and(2)and4E.Fora ,|  definitionof guardian,seeRule1202(j). R Ӏ(b)Gift      Gift hasthemeaningstatedinCode,StateGovernment Z Article,15102. "r Crossreference:SeeCanon4D(5).  Ӏ(c)Honorarium z     Honorarium hasthemeaningstatedinCode,State &v GovernmentArticle,15102. > Ѐ(d)Impartial,Impartiality,orImpartially  !     Impartial,   impartiality, or  impartially denotes F"# absenceofbiasorprejudiceinfavorof,oragainst,apartyor $^% classofparties,aswellasmaintaininganopenmindin % !' consideringeachissuethatisormaycomebeforethejudicial f'") appointee. )b$+ Crossreference:SeeCanons2A;3A,B(9)andD(1);4A(1);and *&- 5B(1)(a)and(d). +&. Ӏ(e)JudicialAppointee @-(0     Judicialappointee means:(1)anauditor,examiner,  master,orrefereeappointedbytheCourtofAppeals,theCourt x ofSpecialAppeals,acircuitcourt,oranorphans'court;or(2) $t acommissionerappointedbyaDistrictAdministrativeJudgewith   theapprovaloftheChiefJudgeoftheDistrictCourtof |  Maryland. ( x  Crossreference:Forthedefinitionofjudicialappointeefor $  purposesoffilingafinancialdisclosurestatement,seeRule   16816a.    @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion ( Ѐ(f)Knowingly,Knowledge,Known,orKnows     Knowingly, knowledge, known,or knowsmeansactual h knowledgeofthefactinquestion.Actualknowledgemaybe 0 inferredfromcircumstances. H Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and  (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).   @ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion   !Z! Ѐ (f)Know  ""#    Knowmeanstohaveactualknowledgeofthefactin $% question,asmaybeinferredfromcircumstances.  b&!'  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(a),(c),and(d)(iii)and *(z#) (iv)andF(2)and(3)and5B(1)(e).  )^$* Ӏ(g)MemberofJudicialAppointeesFamily *&,     Memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily meansa t,'. spouse,child,grandchild,parent,grandparent,orotherrelative <.)0 orindividualwithwhoma judicialappointee maintainsaclose  familialrelationship. x Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(1)(c)and4G(1). $t Ѐ(h)MemberofJudicialAppointeesHousehold       Memberofthejudicialappointeeshousehold hasthe |  meaningstatedinCode,StateGovernmentArticle,15102for D    memberofhousehold. @  Crossreference:SeeCanons3D(2)and4D(5).   Ѐ(i)PoliticalOrganization H      Politicalorganization meansapoliticalpartyorother D group,theprincipalpurposeofwhichistofurthertheelection   orappointmentofacandidatetopoliticaloffice. h Crossreference:SeeCanon5B(1)(b)and(c). d Ѐ(j)Require      Require, inthecontextthata judicialappointee  l   require certainconductofothers,meansthatthe judicial 4 appointee istotakereasonablestepstodirectandcontrolthe L  conductofthosepersons. !" Crossreference:SeeCanon3B(3),(5),(8),and(10)andC(2). p#$ Ѐ(k)SignificantFinancialInterest %l &  @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion t(#* Ѐ(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeansownershipof: <*%,   (A)aninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhas ,T'. receivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrentlyreceiving,or -)0 inthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear;  Ѐ(B)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or x   (C)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris @ convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity.  X @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion    Ѐ(1) Significantfinancialinterestmeans: `    (A)ownershipofaninterestastheresultofwhichthe (x  ownerhasreceivedwithinthepastthreeyears,iscurrently @ receiving,orinthefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan  $1,000peryear;or    (B)ownershipbyajudicialappointeeorjudicial H appointeesspouseof: `    ` (i)morethan3%ofabusinessentity;or (    ` (ii)asecurityofanykindthatrepresents,oris  convertibleinto,morethan3%ofabusinessentity. h  ̀(2)Inapplyingthisdefinition: "," Ѐ(A)ownershipofaninterestinamutualorcommon $$ investmentfundthatholdsasecurityisnotownershipofthe 4&!& securityunless: '0#(   (i)the judicialappointee [AlternativeBAdd: or )$* spousehere] participatesinthemanagementofthefund;or T+&, Ѐ  (ii)thereisbeforethe judicialappointee aproceeding -l(. thatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest,or  suchproceedingisimminent; \ Ѐ(B)ownershipofagovernmentsecurityisnota significant X financialinterest intheissuerunlessthereisbeforethe    judicialappointee aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffect   thevalueofthesecurity,orsuchproceedingisimminent; `     (C)neitheradepositinafinancialinstitutionnora  \  proprietaryinterestsuchasorsimilartothatofadepositorin   amutualsavingsassociation,memberinacreditunion,orpolicy d  holderinamutualinsurancecompanyisa significantfinancial ` interest intheentityunlessthereisbeforethe judicial ( appointee aproceedingthatcouldsubstantiallyaffectthevalue  ofthedepositorinterest,orsuchproceedingisimminent;and h   (D)anownershipinterestinasecurityheldbya d charitable,civic,educational,fraternalorsororal,or  religiousorganizationwillnotbeimputedtoa judicial l appointee merelybecausethe judicialappointee orthe judicial 4   appointees child,parent,orspouseisanadvisertoordirector !L" orofficerof,orotherwiseactivelyparticipatesin,the #$ organization. p% & Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(c)and(d)(iii). 'l"( Ѐ(l)ThirdDegreeofRelationship ($*     Thirddegreeofrelationship meanstherelationship t*%, betweena judicialappointee andthefollowingindividuals:a <,'. greatgrandparent,grandparent,parent,uncle,aunt,brother, .T)0 sister,child,grandchild,greatgrandchild,nephew,orniece.  Crossreference:SeeCanon3D(1)(d). \     @HH' CANON1   @ IntegrityandIndependence x   Anindependentandhonorablejudicialsystemis 0 indispensabletojusticeinoursociety.A judicialappointee   ,  should shallobservehighstandardsofconductsothatthe   integrityandindependenceofthejudicialsystem may willbe P   preserved.TheprovisionsofthisCode should aretobe L  construedandappliedtofurtherthatobjective.      @HH' CANON2   @TT AvoidanceofImproprietyandtheAppearanceofImpropriety x A.  A judicialappointee shouldbehavewithpropriety shall  , avoidimproprietyand shouldavoideven theappearanceof   impropriety.A judicialappointee should shallrespectand P   complywiththelawand should shallactatalltimesinamanner h  thatpromotespublicconfidenceinthe impartiality andintegrity    andimpartiality ofthejudicialsystem. Thepersonalbehavior   ofajudicialappointeeinboththeperformanceofofficial 8 duties,andineverydaylife,shouldbebeyondreproach.  4 @HH'COMMENT f   Publicconfidenceinthejudicialsystemiserodedby b irresponsibleorimproperconductby judicialappointees .A 8  judicialappointee mustexpecttobethesubjectofconstant  publicscrutiny.A judicialappointee mustthereforeaccept  restrictionsonhisorherconductthatmightbeviewedas  burdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyand j willingly.Examplesaretherestrictionson judicialappointees  @ speechimposedbyCanon3B(8)and(9)thatareindispensableto $ t  themaintenanceofthe impartiality ,independence,andintegrity  J! ofthejudicialsystem. !."   Theobligationtoavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceof #$ improprietyappliestoboththeprofessionalandpersonalconduct `$% ofa judicialappointee .Becauseitisnotpracticabletolist 6% & allprohibitedacts,theobligationisnecessarilycastin &j!' generaltermsthatextendtoconductby judicialappointees that &@"( isharmfulalthoughnotspecificallymentionedinthisCode. '$#) Actualimproprietiesunderthisstandardincludeviolationsof (#* law,otherspecificprovisionsofthisCode,orothercourt )$+ rules.Thetestforappearanceofimproprietyiswhetherthe V*%, conductwouldcreateinreasonablemindsaperceptionthatthe ,+|&-  judicialappointees abilitytocarryoutofficialresponsibili ,R'. tieswithcompetence, impartiality ,andintegrityisimpaired. ,6(/ SeealsotheCommenttoCanon2C. -)0 ЇB.  A judicialappointee should shallnotallowofficialconduct  tobeimproperlyinfluencedbyafamily,political,social,or N otherrelationship s orbyanemploymentofferoropportunity.A J  judicialappointee should shallnotlendorusetheprestigeof   thepositiontoadvancetheprivateinterestsofthe judicial n   appointee orothers;nor should shalla judicialappointee convey 6  orpermitotherstoconveytheimpressionthattheyareina N  specialpositiontoinfluenceofficialconduct.A judicial   appointee should shallnottestifyvoluntarilyasacharacter r witness. : @HH'COMMENT 6   Publicconfidenceinthejudicialsystemiserodedby  irresponsibleorimproperconductbyjudicialappointees.A h judicialappointeemustexpecttobethesubjectofconstant > publicscrutiny.Ajudicialappointeemustthereforeaccept d restrictionsonhisorherconductthatmightbeviewedas : burdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyand  willingly.     Membershipofajudicialappointeeinanorganizationthat B practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofrace,sex,  h  religion,ornationaloriginmaygiverisetoperceptionsthat  >! thejudicialappointee'simpartialityisimpaired.Itis !" thereforeinappropriateforajudicialappointeetocontinueto "# holdmembershipinanorganizationthatthejudicialappointee p#$ knowsorreasonablyshouldknow,practicesandwillcontinueto F$% practicesuchinvidiousdiscriminationsoastogiverisetothe %l & perceptionthatthejudicialappointee'simpartialityis %B!' impaired.Whetheranorganizationpracticesandwillcontinueto &"( practicethatkindofinvidiousdiscriminationisoftenacomplex '") questiontowhichjudicialappointeesshouldbesensitive.The t(#* answercannotbedeterminedmerelyfromanexaminationofan J)$+ organization'scurrentmembershiprollsbutmaydependonthe  *p%, natureandpurposeoftheorganization,andofanyrestrictions *F&- onmembership,thehistoryoftheorganization'sselectionof +'. members,andotherrelevantfactors.Ultimately,eachjudicial ,'/ appointeemustdetermineinthejudicialappointee'sown x-(0 consciencewhetheranorganizationofwhichthejudicial N.)1 appointeeisamemberpracticesinvidiousdiscrimination.     Maintainingtheprestigeofthepositionof judicial \ appointee isessentialtoasystemofgovernmentinwhichthe @ judicialsystemfunctionsindependentlyoftheexecutiveand $t legislativebranches.Respectforthepositionof judicial J appointee facilitatestheorderlyconductoflegitimatejudicial  . functions. Judicialappointees shoulddistinguishbetweenproper   andimproperuseoftheprestigeofpositioninalloftheir   activities.Forexample,itwouldbeimproperfora judicial |   appointee toalludetohisorherpositiontogainapersonal `   advantage,suchasdeferentialtreatmentwhenstoppedbyapolice D  officerforatrafficoffense.Similarly,officialletterhead j  mustnotbeusedforconductinga judicialappointees personal @  business. $    A judicialappointee alsomustavoidlendingorusingthe   prestigeofthepositionfortheadvancementoftheprivate d interestsofothers.Forexample,a judicialappointee mustnot : usethepositiontogainadvantageinacivilsuitinvolvinga n  memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily .Astotheacceptance D ofawards,seeCanon4D(5)(c)andtheaccompanyingComment. (   Althougha judicialappointee shouldbesensitiveto  possibleabuseoftheprestigeoftheposition,the judicial h appointee mayserveasareferenceorprovidealetterof L recommendationbasedonthe judicialappointees own knowledge . 0   Judicialappointees mayparticipateintheprocessof : judicialselectionbycooperatingwithappointingauthoritiesand  screeningcommitteesseekingnamesforconsideration.    Thetestimonyofa A judicialappointee mustnottestify P   voluntarilyasacharacterwitness injects becausetodosomay 4!! lendtheprestigeofthe appointmentintotheproceedinginwhich  "Z" ajudicialappointeetestifiesandmaybemisunderstoodtobean "0# officialtestimonial positioninsupportofthepartyforwhom #$ the judicialappointee testifies. ThisCanon A judicial $% appointee may,however, doesnotaffordajudicialappointeethe p% & privilegeagainsttestifyinginresponsetoanofficialsummons  T&!' testifywhenproperlysubpoenaed. *'z"( C.A judicialappointee shallnotholdmembershipinany *%, organizationthatpracticesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasis J,'. ofnationalorigin,race,religion,orsex. -F)0 @HH'COMMENT    Membershipofa judicialappointee inanorganizationthat 2 practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasisofnational f origin,race,religion,orsexgivesrisetoperceptionsthatthe <  judicialappointees impartiality isimpaired.Itistherefore   inappropriatefora judicialappointee tocontinuetohold   membershipinanorganizationthatthe judicialappointeeknows ,   orreasonablyshould know ,practicesandwillcontinueto n   practicesuchinvidiousdiscriminationsoastogiverisetothe R   perceptionthatthe judicialappointees impartiality is (x  impaired.Membershipinanorganizationwouldnotbeprohibited  \  unlessthatmembershipwouldreasonablygiverisetoaperception 2  ofpartiality.Certainorganizations!suchascongregational   brotherhoods,sisterhoods,orbowlingleagues!maywellbe   restrictedtoindividualsbelongingtotheparticular d  congregationandthereforetothosesharingaparticular : religiousbelief,butitisunlikelythatmembershipinsuchan ` organizationwouldcausepeoplereasonablytobelievethatthe 6  judicialappointee ispartial.   p      x        `    Whetheranorganizationpracticesandwillcontinueto L practicethatkindofinvidiousdiscriminationisoftenacomplex "r questiontowhich judicialappointees shouldbesensitive.The H answercannotbedeterminedmerelyfromanexaminationofan , organization'scurrentmembershiprollsbutmaydependon(1)the  natureandpurposeoftheorganization,(2)anyrestrictionson  membership,(3)thehistoryoftheorganization'sselectionof ^ members,and(4)otherrelevantfactorssuchasthatthe 4 organizationisdedicatedtothepreservationofcultural,  Z ethnic,orreligiousvaluesoflegitimatecommonintereststoits 0  members,orthatitis,infactandeffect,anintimate,purely  ! privateorganizationwhosemembershiplimitationscouldnotbe !" constitutionallyprohibited.Absentsuchfactors,an b"# organizationisgenerallysaidtodiscriminateinvidiouslyifit 8#$ arbitrarilyexcludesfrommembership,onthebasisofnational $^% origin,race,religion,orsex,individualswhootherwisewould $4 & beadmittedtomembership. % !'   AlthoughCanon2Crelatesonlytomembershipin f'") organizationsthatinvidiouslydiscriminateonthebasisof <(#* nationalorigin,race,religion,orsex,a judicialappointees  )b$+ membershipinanorganizationthatengagesinanydiscriminatory )F%, membershippracticesprohibitedbythelawofthejurisdiction *&- alsoviolatesCanon2Aandgivestheappearanceofimpropriety. +&. Inaddition,itwouldbeaviolationofCanon2fora judicial x,'/ appointee toarrangeameetingataclubthatthe judicial \-(0 appointee knows practicesinvidiousdiscriminationonthebasis @.)1 ofnationalorigin,race,religion,orsex,initsmembershipor  otherpolicies,orforthe judicialappointee tousesuchclub  regularly.Moreover,publicmanifestationbya judicial j appointee ofhisorher knowing approvalofinvidious N discriminationonanybasisgivestheappearanceofimpropriety 2 underCanon2anddiminishespublicconfidenceinthe  X  impartiality andintegrityofthejudicialsystem,inviolation  . ofCanon2A.     Whena judicialappointee learnsthatanorganizationto n   whichthe judicialappointee belongsengagesininvidious R   discriminationthatwouldprecludemembershipunderCanon2Cor 6  underCanon2A,the judicialappointee ispermitted,inlieuof  \  resigning,tomakeimmediateeffortstohavetheorganization @  discontinueitsinvidiouslydiscriminatorypractices,butis   requiredtosuspendparticipationinallotheractivitiesofthe   organization.Iftheorganizationfailstodiscontinueits r  invidiouslydiscriminatorypracticesaspromptlyaspossible(and H inalleventswithintwoyearsofthe judicialappointees first n learningofthepractices),the judicialappointee isrequiredto R resignimmediatelyfromtheorganization.  6      @HH' CANON3   @ ImpartialandDiligent PerformanceofOfficialDuties @ ̀Intheperformanceofofficialduties,thefollowing   standardsapply : . J   A.GENERALRESPONSIBILITIES.     A judicialappointee shallperformthedutiesofthe N  positiondiligently, impartially ,andwithouthavingor f manifestingbiasorprejudice,includingbiasorprejudicebased . onage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual  orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus. 6 @HH'COMMENT    A judicialappointee mustperformhisorherdutiesfairly d and impartially .A judicialappointee whomanifestsbiasofany H kindinaproceedingimpairsthefairnessoftheproceedingand ,| bringsthejudicialsystemintodisrepute.Facialexpressionand R bodylanguage,inadditiontooralcommunication,cangivean (  appearanceofbias.A judicialappointee mustbealerttoavoid  ! behaviorthatmaybeperceivedasprejudicial.Forexample,a !"  judicialappointee mustrefrainfromcomment,gesture,orother h"# conductthatcouldreasonablybeperceivedassexualharassment. L#$   @P P  AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion  z'")  A. B. ADJUDICATIVERESPONSIBILITIES RESPONSIBILITIESFORTHE B)$+ CONDUCTOFPROCEEDINGS.   +Z&-  ,"(/ Ї@ AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion    A. B.ADJUDICATIVERESPONSIBILITIES.  x ̀(1)A judicialappointee should shallbefaithfultothelaw  < andmaintainprofessionalcompetenceinit.   Ѐ(2)A judicialappointee should shallnotbe unswayed swayed `   bypartisaninterests,publicclamor,orfearofcriticism. (x  Ѐ(3)A judicialappointee shouldmaintain shall require order $  anddecoruminproceedingsbeforethe judicialappointee .   Ѐ(4)A judicialappointee should shallbe patient, dignified , d and . ,| Ѐ(5)A judicialappointee shallbecourteoustoandpatient ( withlawyers,litigants,witnesses, lawyers, andotherswithwhom  the judicialappointee dealsinanofficialcapacityand should  L shall require similarconductoflawyers , and ofstaff, court d personnelandotherssubjecttothe judicialappointees  , directionandcontrol.    @HH'COMMENT &#v#   Thedutytohearallproceedingsfairlyandwithpatienceis $" % notinconsistentwiththedutytodisposepromptlyofthe % & businessofthecourt. Judicialappointees canbebusinesslike ~&!' andefficientwhilebeingdeliberateandpatient. b'"(   (5) (6)(a)A judicialappointee should shallaccordto )^$* everypersonwho islegallyinterested hasalegalinterestina *&&, proceedingpendingbeforethe judicialappointee ,or the that ,'. person'slawyer, full therighttobeheardaccordingtolaw , J.)0 and,exceptasauthorizedbylaw, .  ! !  (b)Whilepresidingoveraproceeding,a judicialappointee  \ shallneitherinitiate,permit,orconsiderexparte $t communicationsnorconsider exparteor othercommunicationsmade  , tothe judicialappointee outsidethepresenceoftheparties   concerningapendingorimpendingproceeding,exceptasotherwise P   providedinCanon3B(6). L    (c)Expartecommunicationsthatrelatetoschedulingor   otheradministrativepurposesoremergenciesandnotto `  substantivemattersorissuesonthemeritsareauthorized,if:  \ (i)circumstancesrequire;(ii)the judicialappointee reasonably  believesthatnopartywillgainaproceduralortactical  advantageasaresultofthecommunication;(iii)the judicial ,| appointee makesprovisionpromptlytonotifyallotherpartiesof D thesubstanceoftheexpartecommunication;and(iv)the    judicialappointee affordsthepartiesreasonableopportunityto t respond. <     (d)Withtheconsentoftheparties,a judicialappointee  !8" mayconferseparatelywiththepartiesandtheirlawyersinan #$ efforttomediateorsettlematterspendingbeforethe judicial \% & appointee . $'t"(   (e)A judicialappointee ,however, mayobtaintheadviceof (<$* adisinterestedexpertonthelawapplicabletoaproceeding *&,  beforethejudicialappointee ifthe judicialappointee gives `,'. noticeto :(i)makesprovisionpromptlytonotifyallofthe (.x)0 parties ofthenameoftheperson astotheexpertconsultedand  thesubstanceoftheadvice , ;and(ii)affordstheparties \ reasonableopportunitytorespond. X   (f)A judicialappointee mayconsultwithcourtpersonnel   whosefunctionistoaidthe judicialappointee incarryingout |  adjudicativeresponsibilitiesandwithjudgesandother judicial D   appointees .  \    (g)A judicialappointee mayinitiateorconsideranex $  partecommunicationwhenexpresslyauthorizedbylawtodoso.   @HH'COMMENT *z   The proscription prohibitionagainstcommunications & concerningaproceedingincludescommunicationsfromlawyers,law  teachers,andotherpersonswhoarenotparticipantsinthe  proceeding,excepttothelimitedextentpermitted. Itdoesnot X precludeajudicialappointeefromconsultingwithjudges,other .~ judicialappointees,orwithcourtpersonnelwhosefunctionisto T aidthejudicialappointeeincarryingoutadjudicative * responsibilities.     Totheextentpracticable,allpartiesortheirlawyersmust \ beincludedincommunicationswitha judicialappointee . 2   WheneverCanon3B(6)requiresthepresenceof,ornotice  <! to,aparty,itisthepartyslawyeror,ifthepartyis !" unrepresented,thepartywhoistobepresentortowhomnotice "# istobegiven. n#$   Canon3B(6)allowsforlimitedexpartecommunicationto %j & facilitateschedulingandotheradministrativepurposesandto %F!' accommodateemergencies.Eventhen,however,a judicialappointee  &"( mustdiscourageexpartecommunicationandallowitonlyifall '#) ofthecriteriastatedinCanon3B(6)clearlyaremet.A (#*  judicialappointee mustdisclosetoallpartiesallexparte b)$+ communicationdescribedinCanon3B(6)(c)and(e)regardinga F*%, proceedingpendingorimpendingbeforethe judicialappointee . +l&-   A judicialappointee mustnotindependentlyinvestigate ,&(/ factsinacaseandmustconsideronlytheevidencepresented, - )0 exceptmattersofwhichthe judicialappointee properlycantake  judicialnotice.    A judicialappointee mayrequestapartytosubmitproposed @ findingsoffactandconclusionsoflawifalloftheother $t partiesareapprisedoftherequestandgivenanopportunityto J respondtotheproposedfindingsandconclusions.     A judicialappointee mustmakereasonableefforts,including |  theprovisionofappropriatesupervision,toensurethatCanon3B `   (6)isnotviolatedthroughpersonnelsubjecttothe judicial 6   appointees directionandcontrol. j  Ӏ (6) (7)A judicialappointee should shalldispose promptly    ofofficialbusinessefficiently,fairly,andpromptly. r  @HH'COMMENT D   Promptdispositionofofficialbusinessrequiresa judicial  appointee todevoteadequatetimetoofficialduties,tobe  punctualinattendinghearingsandexpeditiousindetermining h mattersundersubmission,andtoinsistthat officials, personnel > subjecttothe judicialappointees directionandcontroland d litigantsandtheirlawyerscooperatetothatend. H Ӏ (7) (8)A judicialappointee should shallabstainfrom  publiccomment about thatrelatestoaproceedingpendingor l impending proceeding inanycourt , andthatmightreasonablybe  h  expectedtoaffecttheoutcomeofthatproceedingortoimpair !" thefairnessofthatproceedingand should shall require similar p#$ abstentiononthepartofpersonnelsubjecttothe judicial 8% & appointees directionandcontrol. Thissubsection Canon3B(8) 'P"( doesnotprohibita judicialappointee frommakingpublic ($* statementsinthecourseofofficialdutiesorfromexplaining *%, forpublicinformationtheproceduresofacourt. <,'.  -8)0 @HH'COMMENT     Personnelsubjecttothe judicialappointees directionand \ controldoesnotincludethelawyersinaproceedingbeforea @  judicialappointee .Theconductoflawyersinthisregardis f governedbyRule3.6oftheMaryland[Lawyers]Rulesof J ProfessionalConduct.   Ӏ(9)Withrespecttoacase,controversy,orissuethatis R   likelytocomebeforethecourt,a judicialappointee shallnot  N  makeacommitment,pledge,orpromisethatisinconsistentwith   the impartial performanceofthedutiesoftheappointed r  position. : @HH'COMMENT     Canon3B(8)and(9)restrictionsona judicialappointees  h speechareessentialtothemaintenanceofthe impartiality , L independence,andintegrityofthejudicialsystem.Apending 0 proceedingisonethathasbegunbutnotyetreachedfinal V disposition.Animpendingproceedingisonethatisanticipated , butnotyetbegun.Therequirementthata judicialappointee   abstainfrompubliccommentregardingapendingorimpending  proceedingcontinuesduringanytrialcourtorappellateprocess l anduntilfinaldisposition. B Ӏ(10)A judicialappointee shall require lawyersin  ! proceedingsbeforethe judicialappointee torefrainfrom "# manifesting,bywordorconduct,biasorprejudicebasedonage, T$% disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex,sexual &P!' orientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.Canon3B(10)doesnot '") precludelegitimateadvocacywhensuchstatusorothersimilar X)$+ factorisanissueinaproceeding. +T&-   (11)Unlessrecusalisappropriate,a judicialappointee  ,(/ shallhearanddeterminemattersassignedtothe judicial  appointee . x Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000 @ oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties  f for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment  < officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle,   15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions   governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, n   StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords); D   Code,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation). j   B. C.ADMINISTRATIVERESPONSIBILITIES. r    (1) ` A judicialappointee shoulddiligently shalldischarge n hisorheradministrativeresponsibilities ,maintainprofessional 6 competenceinjudicialadministration,andfacilitatethe  performanceofadministrativeresponsibilitiesof without > favoritismornepotismandshallcooperatewithjudges,other :  judicialappointees ,andcourtofficialsintheadministrationof  courtbusiness. ^   (2)A judicialappointee should shall require staffand   Z court officials personnelandotherssubjecttothe judicial  "! appointees directionandcontroltoobservethestandardsof "#  fidelityand diligenceandfidelitythatapplytothe judicial b$% appointee andtorefrainfrommanifestingbiasorprejudicein *&z!' theperformanceoftheirofficialduties.  'B#)  󀀀 (3)Ajudicialappointeeshouldtakeorinitiateappropriate )$+ correctivemeasuresagainstajudge,ajudicialappointee,ora J+&- lawyerforunprofessionalconductofwhichthejudicialappointee ,F(/ maybeaware.   @HH' COMMENT  \   Correctivemeasuresmayincludeaprivateadmonitionor X reportingmisconducttotheappropriatedisciplinarybodyora . barassociationcounselingprogram.    ̀Ӏ (4) (3)A judicialappointee should shallnotmake 6   unnecessaryappointments .Ajudicialappointeeshouldexercise  N  thepowerofappointmentonlyonthebasisofmerit,avoiding   nepotismandfavoritism.Thejudicialappointeeshould andshall V  notapprovecompensationofappointeesbeyondthefairvalueof R servicesrendered.  @HH'COMMENT Z   Consentbythepartiestoanappointmentoranawardof V compensationdoesnotrelieve the a judicialappointee ofthe , obligationprescribedby thissection Canon3C(3).   C. D.RECUSAL. h Ӏ(1)A judicialappointee shouldnotparticipatein shall  recusehimselforherselffromaproceedinginwhichthe judicial  ! appointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned, T"# including butnotlimitedto aninstance s where when: $l% Ѐ(a)the judicialappointee hasapersonalbiasorprejudice %!' concerningaparty , orapartyslawyeror personal extra '") official knowledge ofadisputedevidentiaryfact s concerningthe <)$+ proceeding; +T&-   (b)(i)the judicialappointee servedasalawyerinthe ,(/ matterincontroversy,oralawyerwithwhomthe judicial  appointee previouslypracticedlawservedduringsuchassociation x asalawyerconcerningthematter,orthe judicialappointee or @ lawyer hasbeenamaterialwitnessconcerningit;  X @HH'COMMENT      Alawyerinagovernmentalagencydoesnotnecessarilyhave 6  anassociationwithotherlawyersemployedbythatagencywithin  \  themeaningof thissubsection Canon3D(1)(b);a judicial 2  appointee formerlyemployedbyagovernmentalagency,however,   shouldnotparticipateinaproceedingifthe judicial   appointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestionedbecause   ofsuchassociation. r   (c) (ii)ifa judicialappointee isparttime,the judicial n appointee oranyattorneywithwhomthe judicialappointee is 6 associated,representsapartyorotherwisehasaninterestin  theproceeding; Z   (d) (c)the judicialappointeeknows thatheorshe, V individuallyorasa fiduciary ,or thejudicialappointees  spouseorminorchildofthejudicialappointeeresidinginthe  judicialappointeeshousehold, amemberofthejudicial B!! appointeesfamily ,hasa significantfinancialinterest inthe  #Z# subjectmatterincontroversyorinapartytotheproceeding ,or $" % anyotherinterestthatcouldbesubstantiallyaffectedbythe ~&!' outcomeoftheproceeding ; *(z#) @HH'COMMENT )&%+   Asaminimumstandardfordeterminingwhatconstitutesa +&- "significantfinancialinterest,"thejudge[sic]shouldapply X,'. thedefinitionof"financialinterest"providedintheMaryland .-~(/ PublicEthicsLaw,Md.Code,StateGovernmentArticle,15 .T)0 102(n)(1995ReplacementVolumeand1998Supplement):"(1)  Ownershipofaninterestastheresultofwhichtheownerhas  receivedwithinthepast3years,iscurrentlyreceiving,orin \ thefutureisentitledtoreceive,morethan$1,000peryear;or 2 (2)(i)ownershipofmorethan3%ofabusinessentity;or(ii) X ownershipofsecuritiesofanykindthatrepresent,orare . convertibleinto,ownershipofmorethan3%ofabusiness   entity."      Moreover,there Theremaybesituations involving that 6   involvealesserfinancialinterest whichalso butnonetheless  \  requirerecusalbecauseofthe judicialappointees ownsenseof  2  propriety.Conversely,therearesituationswhereparticipation   maybeappropriateeventhoughthe"financialinterest"threshold   ispresent.Inthelattercase,the judicialappointee must  r   firstmustobtainanopinionfromtheJudicialEthicsCommittee V   toobtainanexemption withregardtotheappropriateness,except ,|  asprovidedinCanon 3D 3E(NonrecusalbyAgreement). R Ӏ (e) (d)the judicialappointee ,the spouseofthe judicial  appointees spouse, aperson anindividualwithinthe third v degreeofrelationship toeitherofthem,orthespouseofsuch a > person anindividual: V   (i)isapartytotheproceeding , or isknownbythe  judicialappointeetobeanofficer, adirector,officer,or ^ trusteeofaparty;  Z   (ii)isactingasalawyerintheproceeding;  ! @HH'COMMENT 8#$   Thefactthatalawyerinaproceedingisaffiliatedwitha $4 & lawfirmwithwhichalawyerrelativeofthe judicialappointee  % !' isaffiliateddoesnotofitselfrequirerecusalofthe judicial &!( appointee .Underappropriatecircumstances,thefactthat"the '")  judicialappointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned" f(#* underCanon 3C 3D(1),orthatthelawyerrelativeis known by J)$+ the judicialappointee tohaveaninterestinthelawfirmthat .*~%, couldbe"substantiallyaffectedbythe outcomeofthe  +b&- proceeding"underCanon 3C 3D(1)(d)(iii),mayrequirethe +8'.  judicialappointees recusal. ,(/  -(0 Ї  (iii)is known bythe judicialappointee tohave an a   significantfinancialinterest thatcouldbesubstantially x affectedbythe outcomeofthe proceeding;or @   (iv)istothe judicialappointeesknowledge likelyto  < beamaterialwitnessintheproceeding . ;or     (e)the judicialappointee ,whilea judicialappointee ora `   candidateforjudicialoffice,hasmadeapublicstatementthat (x  commits,orappearstocommit,the judicialappointee with $  respectto:   Ѐ(i)anissueintheproceeding;or H   (ii)thecontroversyintheproceeding. D   (2) ` A judicialappointee should shallkeepinformedabout  hisorherpersonaland fiduciary financialinterests , andshall h makeareasonableefforttokeepinformedaboutthepersonal 0 financialinterestsof thejudicialappointeesspouseandminor , childrenresidinginthe each memberofthejudicialappointees  household . P     (3) ` Forthepurposesofthissection : "h"   (a)thedegreeofrelationshipiscalculatedaccordingto #$ thecivillawsystem;  p% & @HH' COMMENT  'l"( @*  Thefollowingpersonsarewithinthreedegreesof ($* relationshipaccordingtothecivillawsystem:parent, )$+ grandparent,sibling,child,grandchild,uncle,aunt,niece,and t*%, nephew.  J+&-   (b)"fiduciary"includessuchrelationshipsaspersonal ,F(/ representative,executor,administrator,trustee,custodian,  attorneyinfactbypowerofattorney,andguardian;  \   (c)"financialinterest"meansownershipofalegalor X equitableinterest,orarelationshipasdirector,advisor,or   otheractiveparticipantintheaffairsofaparty,exceptthat:  `    (i)ownershipinamutualorcommoninvestmentfund  \  thatholdssecuritiesisnota"financialinterest"insuch   securitiesunlessthejudicialappointeeparticipatesinthe d  managementofthefund;  `     ` (ii) anofficeinaneducational,religious,   charitable,fraternal,orcivicorganizationisnota"financial h interest"insecuritiesheldbytheorganization.  d    ` (iii)theproprietaryinterestofapolicyholderina  mutualinsurancecompany,oradepositorinamutualsavings l association,orasimilarproprietaryinterest,isa"financial h interest"intheissueronlyiftheoutcomeoftheproceeding  couldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueoftheinterest;  p     ` (iv) ownershipofgovernmentsecuritiesisa"financial !l" interest"intheissueronlyiftheoutcomeoftheproceeding "$ couldsubstantiallyaffectthevalueofthesecurities.  t$& @HH'COMMENT  &p!(   UnderCanon3D(1),a judicialappointee mustrecusehimself '#* orherselfwheneverthe judicialappointees impartiality might ($+ reasonablybequestioned,regardlessofwhetheranyofthe )$, specificinstancesinCanon3D(1)apply. j*%-   A judicialappointee mustdiscloseontherecordinformation ,f'/ thatthe judicialappointee believesthepartiesortheirlawyers ,J(0 mightconsiderrelevanttothequestionofrecusal,evenifthe -.)1  judicialappointee believesthatthereisnorealbasisfor  recusal.    Bydecisionallaw,theruleofnecessitymayoverridethe @ ruleofrecusal.Astoajudge,forexample,thejudgemightbe f theonlyjudgeavailableinamatterrequiringimmediatejudicial < action,suchasahearingonprobablecauseoratemporary   restrainingorder.Whentheruleofnecessitydoesoverridethe   ruleofrecusal,a judicialappointee mustdiscloseontherecord n  thebasisforpossiblerecusaland,ifpracticable,use R   reasonableeffortstotransferthematterpromptlytoanother ( x   judicialappointee orjudge.  N   D. E.NONRECUSALBYAGREEMENT. d    Where IfrecusalwouldberequiredbyCanon 3C 3D (1)(c)or ` Canon3C(1)(d) ,the judicialappointee maydiscloseonthe   recordthe basisof reasonfortherecusal. Ifthelawyers,  afterconsultationwiththeirclientsandindependentlyofthe 0  judicialappointee sparticipation,allagreeontherecordthat , the judicialappointee oughttoparticipatenotwithstandingthe  basisforrecusal,the judicialappointee mayparticipateinthe l proceeding. Ifafterdisclosureofanyreasonforrecusalother 4 thanasrequiredbyCanon3D(a)(1),thepartiesandlawyers,out  0! ofthepresenceofthe judicialappointee ,allagreethatthe "#  judicialappointee neednotrecusehimselforherself,andthe T$%  judicialappointee iswillingtoparticipate,theagreementof &l!' thepartiesshallbeincorporatedintherecord,andthe judicial '4#) appointee mayparticipateintheproceeding. )$+    -p(/ @HH'COMMENT    Thisprocedure isdesignedtominimizethechancethata \ partyorlawyerwillfeelcoercedintoanagreement.Aprose 2 partymayagreetoallowparticipationbythejudicialappointee  X givesthepartiesanopportunitytowaivetherecusalifthe .  judicialappointee agrees.The judicialappointee maycommenton   possiblewaiverbutmustensurethatconsiderationofthe   questionofwaiverismadeindependentlyofthe judicial n  appointee .Apartymayactthroughcounselifcounselrepresents R   ontherecordthatthepartyhasbeenconsultedandconsents.As 6   apracticalmatter,a judicialappointee maywishtohaveall  \  partiesandtheirlawyerssignawaiveragreement. @  F.DISCIPLINARYRESPONSIBILITIES. H  Ѐ(1)A judicialappointee shouldtakeorinitiateappropriate D correctivemeasureswithrespecttotheunprofessionalconductof   ajudge,another judicialappointee ,oralawyer. h   (2)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if 0 attempted,werenotsuccessful,a judicialappointee shallinform , theCommissiononJudicialDisabilitiesoffacts known tothat   judicialappointee thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoa l judgesfitnessforoffice. 4     (3)Ifothercorrectivemeasuresarenotappropriateor,if !0" attempted,werenotsuccessful,a judicialappointee shallinform #$ theAttorneyGrievanceCommissionoffacts known tothe judicial T% & appointee thatraiseasubstantialquestionastoalawyers 'l"( honesty,trustworthiness,orfitnessasalawyerinother (4$* respects. *%,   (4)Actsofa judicialappointee requiredorpermittedby <,'. Canon3F(1),(2),or(3)shallbeabsolutelyprivileged,andno .T)0 civilactionpredicatedthereonmaybeinstitutedagainstthe   judicialappointee . \ @HH'COMMENT $t   Permittinga judicialappointee totake"corrective"   measuresgivesthe judicialappointee awiderangeofoptionsto   dealwithunprofessionalconduct.Appropriatecorrective   measuresmayincludedirectcommunicationwiththejudge, n    judicialappointee ,orlawyerwhoisbelievedtohavecommitted D   theviolationorotherdirectactionifavailable.Theremaybe (x  instancesofprofessionalmisconductthatwouldwarrantaprivate N  admonitionorreferraltoabarassociationcounselingservice. $      @HH' CANON4   @ExtraOfficialActivities j   Exceptasotherwiseprohibitedorlimitedbylaworthese   canons,a  t  A.EXTRAOFFICIALACTIVITIESINGENERAL.     A judicialappointee mayengageinthefollowingactivities, x  ifdoingsodoes shallconductallextraofficialactivitiesso @  thattheydonot: <   (1)causeasubstantialquestionastothe judicial  appointees capacitytoact impartially asa judicialappointee ; `   (2)demeantheposition;or (x   (3)interferewiththeproperperformanceofofficial $ duties ,doesnotreflectadverselyuponthejudicialappointees  impartiality,anddoesnotdetractfromthedignityofthe ,| position . (  @HH'COMMENT !"   Completeseparationofa judicialappointee fromextra 0#$ officialactivitiesisneitherpossiblenordesirable.A judicial $d% appointee shouldnotbecomeisolatedfromthe judicial $H & appointees community. %,!'   Anextraofficialactivity,however,maybeperceivedto '") reflectona judicialappointees behavior.Forexample,an l(#* expressionofbiasorprejudicebya judicialappointee ,even P)$+ outsidehisorherofficialactivities,maycauseasubstantial 4*%, questionastothe judicialappointees capacitytoact  +Z&-  impartially asa judicialappointee .Expressionsthatmaydoso +>'. includejokesorotherremarksdemeaningindividualsonthebasis ,"(/ oftheirage,disability,nationalorigin,race,religion,sex, -(0 sexualorientation,orsocioeconomicstatus.SeeCanon2Cand  theaccompanyingComment.   A. B.AVOCATIONALACTIVITIES. .   A SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a judicial   appointee may speak,write, lecture, and speak, teach,write,and R   otherwiseparticipateinotherextraofficial onbothlegaland j  non-legalsubjects.Ajudicialappointeemayparticipatein   other activitiesconcerningthe law,thelegalsystemandthe  r  administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,improvementofthe n law,andnonlegalmatters. Ajudicialappointeemayengagein  socialandrecreationalactivities.  v @HH'COMMENT H   Completeseparationofajudicialappointeefrom  extra-officialactivitiesisneitherpossiblenorwise;a z judicialappointeeshouldnotbecomeisolatedfromthesocietyin P whichheorshemaylive. A judicialappointee isinaunique &v positiontocontributetotheadministrationofjustice,the  Z legalsystem,andimprovementofthelaw,includingrevisionof 0 substantiveandprocedurallawandimprovementofcriminaland   juvenilejustice.Astimemaypermit,a judicialappointee is  ! encouragedtodoso,eitherindependentlyorthroughabar p!" associationorotherorganizationdedicatedtotheimprovementof F"# thelaw. #l$   Thephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCodeis $ & used,inthisandothersectionsofCanon4,primarilyin % ' connectionwitha judicialappointees charitable,civic,or t&!( governmentalactivities,toremind judicialappointees thatuse X'") ofpermissivelanguageinvarioussectionsofthisCodedoesnot <(#* relievea judicialappointee fromtheotherprovisionsofthis )b$+ Codethatapplytothespecificconduct. )F%,    N-(0 B. C.CHARITABLE,CIVIC,ANDGOVERNMENTALACTIVITIES.    (1)Exceptwhenactingproseinamatterthatinvolvesthe \  judicialappointee orthe judicialappointees interests,when d actingastoamatterthatconcernstheadministrationof  , justice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementofthelaw,orwhen   actingasotherwiseallowedunderCanon4,a judicialappointee  4    may shallnotappearatapublichearingbefore andconfer ,or L  otherwiseconsultwith publicbodiesorofficialsonmatters   concerningthejudicialsystemortheadministrationofjustice , T  anexecutiveorlegislativebodyorofficial. P @HH'COMMENT    AssuggestedintheReporter'sNotestotheABACodeof .~ JudicialConduct(1990),the administrationofjustice"isnot  Z limitedto mattersofjudicialadministration"butisbroad 6 enoughtoincludeothermattersrelatingtoajudicialsystem.    @P P AlternativeARulesCommitteesVersion >   (2) A Exceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjectto V Canon4A,ajudicialappointeemay serveongovernmentaladvisory  ! bodiesdevotedtotheimprovementofthelaw,thelegalsystemor "# theadministrationofjusticeandmayrepresenthisorher ^$% country,stateorlocalityonceremonialoccasionsorin &&v!' connectionwithhistorical,educationalandculturalactivities  '>#) acceptappointmenttoagovernmentalcommission,committee,or )%+ position. ~+&-   F-(/ @AlternativeBJudicialEthicsCommitteesVersion    (2) A Exceptasotherwiseprovidedbylawandsubjectto x Canon4A,ajudicialappointeemay serveon acceptappointmentto @ agovernmentaladvisory bodiesdevotedtotheimprovementofthe  X law,thelegalsystemortheadministrationofjusticeandmay   representhisorhercountry,stateorlocalityonceremonial    occasionsorinconnectionwithhistorical,educationaland `  culturalactivities commission,committee,orposition.  (x  @HH'COMMENT    Valuableserviceshavebeenrenderedinthepasttothe r statesandthenationbyjudicialappointeeswhomaybeappointed H bytheexecutivetoundertakeadditionalassignments.The n appropriatenessofconferringtheseassignmentsonjudicial D appointeesmustbereassessed,however,inlightofthedemands  ontimecreatedbytoday'scrowdeddocketsandtheneedto  protectthejudicialappointeesfrominvolvementinmattersthat v mayprovetobecontroversial.Judicialappointeesshouldnotbe L expectedorpermittedto A judicialappointee maynotaccepta "r governmentalappointment s thatcouldinterferewith their the V effectivenessandindependence .Norcanajudicialappointee of , thejudicialsystem,assumeordischarge thelegislativeor an  executiveorlegislative powersofgovernment power(Maryland  DeclarationofRights,Article8),orholdan"office"underthe ^   constitutionorotherlawsoftheUnitedStatesorStateof 4!! Maryland(MarylandDeclarationofRights,Articles33and35).  "Z"   (3) Asaprivatecitizen,ajudicialappointeemayappear $% beforeorconferwithpublicbodiesorofficialsonmattersthat 8&!' directlyrelatetoajudicialappointeesperson,immediate '4#) familyorpropertysolongasthejudicialappointeedoesnot )$+ use,andavoidstheappearanceofusing,theprestigeofthe <+&- judicialappointmenttoinfluencedecision-making. Ajudicial ,8(/ appointeemayrepresentthiscountry,astate,oralocalityon  ceremonialoccasionsorinconnectionwithcultural,educational, \ orhistoricalactivities. X  C.CIVICANDCHARITABLEACTIVITIES.  `    (4)(a)SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a judicial  \  appointee may participateandserveasamember,officer, bea $  director, trustee member,non-legal advisor adviser,officer,or   trusteeofa neducational,religious, charitable,civic, H  educational,fraternalorsororal,law-related,or civic  D religiousorganization notconductedfortheeconomicor  politicaladvantageofitsmembers,subjecttothefollowing L provisions: . H @HH'COMMENT    SeetheCommenttoCanon4Bregardinguseofthephrase P  subjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode.Asanexampleofthe &v meaningofthephrase,a judicialappointee permittedunderCanon L 4C(4)toserveontheboardofanorganizationmaybeprohibited 0 fromsuchserviceby,forexample,Canon2Cor4A,ifthe   organizationpracticesinvidiousdiscriminationorifserviceon  ! theboardotherwisecausesasubstantialquestionastothe b!"  judicialappointees capacitytoact impartially asa judicial 8"# appointee orastoserviceasalegaladviser. #l$   (b)A judicialappointee shallnotbeadirector,member, $& & nonlegaladviser,officer,ortrusteeofanorganizationthatis &!( conductedfortheeconomicorpoliticaladvantageofitsmembers . J(#*   (1) (c)A judicialappointee should shallnot participate )F%, andserve beadirector,member,nonlegaladviser,officer,or +'. trusteeofanorganizationifitislikelythattheorganization: j-(0    ` (a) (i) willbeengagedinproceedingsthatwould  ordinarilycomebeforethejudicialappointee;(b) willbe \  regularly engagedregularlyinadversaryproceedingsinany X court;or      ` (c) (ii)dealswithpeoplewhoarereferredtothe `  organizationby the anycourt onrecommendationofthe judicial  \  appointee orother judicialappointees ofthatcourtexercising $  similarauthority .   @HH'COMMENT n   Thechangingnatureofsomeorganizationsandoftheir  relationshiptothelawmakesitnecessaryfora judicial  appointee regularlytoreexaminetheactivitiesofeach  organizationwithwhich a the judicialappointee isaffiliatedto h determine if whetheritispropertocontinuearelationshipwith L it.Forexample,inmanyjurisdictions,charitableorganizations "r are now morefrequentlyincourtnowthaninthepastormake H policydecisionsthatmayhavepoliticalsignificanceorimply  commitmenttocausesthatmaycomebeforethecourtsfor  adjudication. z   Asajudicialofficerandpersonspeciallylearnedinthe &v law,ajudicialappointeeisinauniquepositiontocontribute L totheimprovementofthelaw,thelegalsystem,andthe "  administrationofjustice,includingrevisionofsubstantiveand  ! procedurallawandtheimprovementofcriminalandjuvenile ~!" justice.Totheextentthattimepermits,ajudicialappointee T"# isencouragedtodoso,eitherindependentlyorthroughabar *#z$ associationorotherorganizationdedicatedtotheimprovementof $P% thelaw.  $& &   (2) (d)(i)A judicialappointee should shallnot X'") participatepersonallyin:  )p$+    `  (A) solicit solicitationoffunds foranysuch *&- organization, orotherfundraisingactivities,exceptthata x,'/  judicialappointee maysolicitfundsfromother judicial $.t)1 appointees overwhomthe judicialappointee doesnotexercise  supervisoryauthority;or x    `  (B)amembershipsolicitationthatreasonably $t mightbeperceivedascoerciveor,exceptaspermittedinCanon   4C(4)(d)(i)(A),isessentiallyafundraisingmechanism. |     ` (ii)A judicialappointee shallnotparticipateasa ( x  guestofhonororspeakeratafundraisingevent. @     ` (iii)ExceptasotherwiseallowedbyCanon4C   (4)(d),a judicialappointee shallnotuseor permittheuseof  H  lendtheprestigeofhisorherpositionfor thatpurpose,buta ` judicialappointeemaybelistedasanofficer,director,or   trusteeoftheorganization fundraisingormembership h solicitation. d    ` (iv)A judicialappointee may:     `  (A)assistanorganizationinplanningfund  raising; 4    `  (B)participateintheinvestmentandmanagement 0  ofanorganizationsfunds;and !"    `  (C)makerecommendationstoprivateandpublic 8#$  andprivate fundgranting agencies organizationson projectsand  $4 & programsandprojects ofwhichthejudicialappointeehas &!( personalknowledgeandwhichconcern concerningthe law  <(#* administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,or the )8%, administrationofjustice improvementofthelaw. Ajudicial +&. appointeeshouldnotbeaspeakerortheguestofhonoratan @-(0 organization'sfundraisingevents,butmayattendsuchevents.   D.FINANCIALACTIVITIES. X   (1)A judicialappointee shouldrefrainfromfinancialand    shallnotengageinbusinessorfinancialdealingsthat: |    (a) usethejudicialappointeesposition reasonablywould ( x  beperceivedtoviolateCanon2B;or $    (b)involvethe judicialappointee infrequent   transactionsorcontinuingbusinessrelationshipswithlawyersor H  otherpersonslikelytocomebeforethe judicialappointee orthe D appointingcourtinmattersrelatingtothe judicialappointees    dutiesandauthority.  @HH'COMMENT V   Canon4D(1)(b)isnecessarytoavoidcreatinganappearance  ofexploitationofpositionorfavoritismandtominimizethe  potentialforrecusal.A judicialappointee alsoshould ^ discourage membersofthejudicialappointeesfamily from B engagingindealingsthatreasonablywouldappeartoexploitthe &v  judicialappointees position.Withrespecttoaffiliationof L  relativesofthe judicialappointee withlawfirmsappearing  0! beforethe judicialappointee ,seetheCommenttoCanon3D(1)(d) !" relatingtorecusal. "#   Participationbya judicialappointee inbusinessand T$% financialdealingsissubjecttothegeneralprohibitionsin 8% & Canon4Aagainstactivitiesthatcauseasubstantialquestionas &^!' to impartiality ,demeantheposition,orinterferewiththe &4"( properperformanceofofficialduties.Suchparticipationalso '#) issubjecttothegeneralprohibitioninCanon2against (#* activitiesinvolvingimproprietyortheappearanceofimpropriety t)$+ andtheprohibitioninCanon2Bagainstmisuseoftheprestigeof J*%, theposition.Inaddition,a judicialappointee mustmaintain  +p&- highstandardsofconductinallofthe judicialappointees  ,T'. activities,assetforthinCanon1.SeetheCommenttoCanon4B ,8(/ regardinguseofthephrase subjecttootherprovisionsofthis -)0 Code.    Thissection Canon4Disnotintendedtoapplytothe \ practiceoflawofpart-time judicialappointees ,whichis 2 coveredbyCanon 4I 4G(2). f    ` (2) A SubjecttootherprovisionsofthisCode,a    judicialappointee mayholdandmanageinvestments,including  n   realestate,andengageinotherremunerativeactivityexcept 6   thatafull-time judicialappointee shallnotholda nyofficeor  2  directorshiporofficeina nypublicutility, bank,insurance   company,lendinginstitution,publicutility,savingsandloan V  association, lendinginstitution,insurancecompany, or any other R business, corporationor enterprise,orventure which thatis  affectedwithapublicinterest. Z    ` (3) A judicialappointee should shallmanage V investmentsandotherfinancialintereststominimizethenumber  ofcasesinwhichrecusalwouldberequired.Assoonas z practicablewithoutseriousfinancialdetriment, the a judicial &v appointee should shalldisposeof investmentsandother those >  financialintereststhatmightrequirefrequentrecusal. !"    ` (4) Information A judicialappointee shallneitheruse b#$ nordisclose,infinancialdealingsorforanyotherpurposenot *%z & relatedtothe judicialappointees officialduties,information &&"( acquired byajudicialappointee inhisorher judicial official (#* capacity shouldnotbeusedordisclosedbythejudicial J*%, appointeeinfinancialdealingsorforanyotherpurposenot +F'. relatedtothejudicialappointeesofficialduties and -(0 confidential,privileged,orotherwisenotpartofthepublic  record. \ Crossreference:Astocourtrecords,seeTitle16,Chapter1000 X oftheMarylandRules.Astoprohibitionsagainst,andpenalties . for,improperdisclosureoruseofinformationbygovernment   officialsandemployees,seeCode,StateGovernmentArticle,   15507and15903.Astocivilandcriminalprovisions `  governingimproperdisclosureofinformation,see,e.g.,Code, 6   StateGovernmentArticle,10626and10627(publicrecords)  \  andCode,TaxGeneralArticle,131018(taxinformation).  2   E.COMPENSATIONANDEXPENSEREIMBURSEMENT.-  :    Ajudicialappointeemayreceivecompensationand 6 reimbursementofexpensesforactivitiespermittedbythisCode,  subjecttothefollowingrestrictions:  >   (1)Compensationshouldnotexceedareasonableamountnor : shoulditexceedwhatapersonwhoisnotajudicialappointee  wouldreceiveforthesameactivity.  B   ( 2)Expensereimbursementshouldbelimitedtotheactual > costoftravel,foodandlodgingreasonablyincurredbythe  judicialappointeeand,whereappropriatetotheoccasion,bythe F ! judicialappointee'sspouse.Anypaymentinexcessofsuchan !B# amountiscompensation.  #%  F.  GIFTS.  J% '   (1) (5) A judicialappointee mustbeespeciallycarefulin &F") accepting shallnotaccept,andshallurge membersofthe ($+ judicialappointeeshousehold nottoaccept,abequest,favor, *%-  gift s , favors,and orloan s from personsnotinthejudicial N,'/ appointeesimmediatefamily.Howeverinnocentlyintended,gifts .f)1 andfavorsfromsuchpersons,especiallygiftsandfavorshaving  substantialmonetaryvalue,maycreateanappearancethatthe \ judicialappointeecouldbeimproperlybeholdentothedonor. X Subjecttothiscaveat,andexceptasotherwiseprohibitedor   limitedbylaworthesecanons,ajudicialappointeemayaccept  `  anyoneexceptfor:  \     ` (a)abook,tape,orotherresourcematerialsupplied   byapublisheronacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse,a gift d   incidenttoapublictestimonial,or bookssuppliedbypublishers ,|  onacomplimentarybasisforofficialuse aninvitationtoa (  judicialappointee andthe judicialappointees spouseorguest  toattendabarrelatedfunctionoranactivitydevotedtothe L administrationofjustice,thelegalsystem,orimprovementof H thelaw;     ` (b)anaward,benefit,or gift incidenttothe P business,profession,orotherseparateactivityofaspouseor h other memberofthejudicialappointeeshousehold ,includingan   award,benefit,or gift fortheuseofboththehouseholdmember !" and judicialappointee (asspouseorhouseholdmember)ifthe T#$ award,benefit,or gift couldnotreasonablybeperceivedas %l & intendedtoinfluencethe judicialappointee intheperformance &4"( ofofficialduties; (#*    ` (b) (c)ordinarysocialhospitality; X*%,    ` (c) (d)a gift fromafriendorrelative byreasonof ,T'. some foraspecialoccasion,suchas awedding, ananniversary, -)0 birthday,orwedding andthelike ,ifthe gift isfairly  commensuratewiththe natureofthe occasionandthefriendship x orrelationship; $t    ` (d) (e)a gift, bequest,favor, gift ,orloanfroma   relativeorclosepersonalfriendwhoseappearance beforethe   judicialappointee or whose interestinacasewouldinanyevent D   requirearecusalunderCanon 3C 3D; @     ` (f)aloanfromalendinginstitutioninitsregular   courseofbusinessonthesametermsgenerallyavailableto H  personswhoarenot judicialappointees . ; D    ` (e) (g)a scholarshipor fellowshiporscholarship   awardedonthesametermsandbasedonthesamecriteriaapplied h tootherapplicants;or d    ` (h)anyotherbequest,favor, gift ,orloanif:(1)the  donororlenderisnotapersonwhoseinterestshavecomeorare  likelytocomebeforethe judicialappointee and(2)the judicial 4 appointee reports,onthe judicialappointees financial L  disclosureform,allbequests,favors, gifts ,andloansrequired !" underRule16816tobereported. #$   (2) ` Thestandardssetforthinsubsection(1)ofthis 8% & sectionalsoapplytogifts,favors,andloansofferedtomembers &4"( ofthejudicialappointeesfamilywhoresideinthejudicial (#* appointeeshousehold.ForpurposesofthisCanonandabsent <*%, extraordinarycircumstances,gifts,favorsandloansacceptedby +8'. suchfamilymembersshallbeconsideredtobeacceptedbythe -(0 judicialappointee.     Judicialappointeesareofteninvitedbylawyersorother \ personstoattendsocial,educational,orrecreationalfunctions. X Inmostcases,suchinvitationswouldfallwithintherealmof   ordinarysocialhospitalityandmaybeacceptedbythejudicial `  appointee.Ifthereismorethanatokenfeeforadmissionto  \  thefunction,however,unlessthefeeiswaivedbythe   organization,thejudicialappointeeshouldpaythefeeandnot d  permitalawyerorotherpersontopayitonthejudicial `  appointeesbehalf.     G. E. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES. d   Whilea judicialappointee isnotabsolutelydisqualified , fromholdinga fiduciary position,a judicialappointee should   shallnotacceptorcontinuetoholdsuchpositionif theholding l ofit doingsowouldinterfereorseemtointerferewiththe h properperformanceofofficialduties,orifthebusiness   interestsofthoserepresentedrequireinvestmentsinenterprises p!" thatareapttocomebeforethe judicialappointee officiallyor #l$ tendtobeinvolvedinquestionstobedeterminedbythe judicial $4 & appointee . &!(  H.ARBITRATION F.SERVICEASARBITRATORORMEDIATOR.  *p%,   Afull-time judicialappointee should shallnotactasan +'. arbitratorormediatororotherwiseperformofficialfunctionsin -(0 aprivatecapacityunlessexpresslyauthorizedbylaw.  @HH'COMMENT 2   This Canon4Fdoesnotprecludea judicialappointee from . participatinginsettlementconferencesorapplyingmethodsof   alternativedisputeresolutionthatareincludedinthe judicial   appointees officialduties.Ifbyreasonofdisclosuremade |  duringorasaresultof asettlementconferenceor an other `   alternativedisputeresolutionproceeding,the judicial 6   appointees impartiality mightreasonablybequestioned,the j   judicialappointee shouldnot furthe rparticipateinthematter N  further.SeeCanon 3C 3D(1). 2   I. G.PRACTICEOFLAW. :   (1)Exceptas providedinsubsection(2) allowedbyCanon 6 4G,a judicialappointee should shallnotpracticelaw.  Notwithstandingthisprohibition,a judicialappointee mayact Z proseinamatterinvolvingthe judicialappointee orthe "r  judicialappointees interestand,ifwithoutcompensation,may : givelegaladvicetoanddraftorreviewdocumentsfora member  ofthejudicialappointeesfamily . z   (2)Totheextentnotexpresslyprohibitedbylaworthe B!! appointingauthorityandsubjecttootherapplicableprovisions "># ofthisCode,aparttime judicialappointee maypracticelaw. to $% theextentpermittedbytheappointingauthority,butthe.  b&!'   (3)A judicialappointee shall not avoidconductwhereby (^#) the judicialappointee use usesor appear seemstousethe )&%+ appointee'spositiontofurther that successinthepracticeof +&- law. J-(/   (4)A judicialappointee shallnotappearasanindividual  inamatterinvolvingthe judicialappointee orthe judicial x appointees interestintheappointingcourt. @   (3) (5)Priortoassumingofficialduties,afull-time  X  judicialappointee shouldenterintoanagreementforpayments   relatingtothe judicialappointees formerlawpractice and |   shouldsubmittheagreementtotheJudicialEthicsCommitteeso D  thattheCommitteemayreviewitastothereasonablenessofthe @  timeprovidedforpaymentstobemadeundertheagreement .A   paymentperiodlimitedtoamaximumoffiveyearsorlessis H presumptivelyreasonable. Alongerpaymentperiodispermitted D onlywiththeCommittee'spriorapprovalastoits  reasonableness.Anagreemententeredintounderthisprovision L maynotbeamendedwithoutthepriorapprovaloftheJudicial H EthicsCommittee.   @HH'COMMENT P   Canon4G(1)limitsthepracticeoflawinarepresentative L  capacitybutnotinaprosecapacity.A judicialappointee may  "! actforhimselforherselfinalllegalmatters,including !" mattersinvolvinglitigationandmattersinvolvingappearances "# beforeorotherdealingswithlegislativeandothergovernmental b#$ bodies.However,insodoing,a judicialappointee mustnot 8$% abusetheprestigeofthepositionforanyreason,including %l & advancementofaninterestofthe judicialappointee orthe %B!'  judicialappointees family.SeeCanons2Band4C(1). &&"(   ThisCodeallowsa judicialappointee togivelegaladvice (#* to,anddraftlegaldocumentsfor,a memberofthejudicial t)$+ appointeesfamily .However,exceptforaparttime judicial X*%, appointee allowedtopracticelaw,a judicialappointee mustnot <+&- receiveanycompensationfrom,oractasanadvocateor  ,p'. negotiatorfor,a memberofthejudicialappointeesfamily ina ,F(/ legalmatter.Aparttime judicialappointee mustnotact -*)0 contrarytoaprohibitionoftheappointingauthority.  H.COMPENSATIONANDREIMBURSEMENT. X   Unlessotherwiseprohibitedbylaw,a judicialappointee may   receivecompensationandreimbursementofexpensesforextra |  officialactivitiespermittedbythisCodeif: ( x    (1)thesourceofcompensationorreimbursementdoesnot $  givetheappearanceofimpropriety;     (2)thecompensationdoesnotexceedareasonableamountand ,|  doesnotexceedtheamountapersonwhoisnota judicial ( appointee ordinarilywouldreceiveforthesameactivity;and    (3)theexpensereimbursementislimitedtotheactualcost h offood,lodging,andtravelreasonablyincurredbya judicial d appointee and,ifappropriatetotheoccasion,bythe judicial , appointees spouseorguest.  @HH'COMMENT B   Acceptanceofan  honorarium ,asdefinedinCode,State  >! GovernmentArticle,15102(r),isgovernedbyCode,State !"" GovernmentArticle,15505.SeeJudicialEthicsOpinionNo.128 "# (issuedFebruary2,2000). ~#$   A judicialappointee mustdisclosefinancialmatterssuchas *%z & debtsorincome,investments,orotherassets,onlytotheextent &^!' requiredbyCanon4H,byCanon3DorE,orbylaw.SeeCode, &4"( StateGovernmentArticle,15610. ' #)   <*%, @HH' CANON5   @!PoliticalActivity j A.  POLITICALCONDUCTOF A JUDICIALAPPOINTEE WHOISNOT A    CANDIDATE.     (1) ` A judicialappointee whoisnotacandidatefor <   electiontojudicialoffice should shallnotengageinany T  partisanpoliticalactivity andshould .     (2)(A)ExceptasotherwiseprovidedinCanon5A(2),a \   judicialappointee shallresigntheappointedpositionwhen X  becoming the judicialappointee becomesacandidateforanon   judicialoffice ,exceptthata .     ` (B)A judicialappointee maycontinuetoholdthe D  appointment appointedpositionwhileacandidateforelectionto,  \ or servingasa delegatein,a State Marylandconstitutional  convention. d B.  POLITICALCONDUCTOF A JUDICIALAPPOINTEE WHOIS A  ! " CANDIDATE. #$   (1)A judicialappointee whoisacandidateforelectionto 0% & ajudicialofficemayengageinpartisanpoliticalactivity &H"( allowedbylawwithrespecttosuchcandidacy,exceptthatthe (#*  judicialappointee : P*%,    ` (a)shallmaintainthedignityappropriatetothe ,h'. appointedpositionandactinamannerconsistentwiththe -)0  impartiality ,independence,andintegrityofthejudicialsystem;     ` (1) (b)  should shallnotactasaleaderorhold any  x anofficeina politicalorganization ; $t    ` (2) (c)  should shallnotmakea speeches speechfora  < candidateor politicalorganization orcandidate orpublicly   endorseacandidatefornonjudicialoffice; `   @HH'COMMENT 2    A judicialappointee doesnotpubliclyendorseacandidate   forpublicofficebyhavingthejudicialappointeesnameonthe r  sameticket. H    ` (3) should maintainthedignityappropriatetothe D appointedposition ;      ` (5) (d) shouldnotmakepledgesorpromisesofconduct L inofficeotherthanthefaithfulandimpartialperformanceof H thedutiesoftheoffice,announcethe judicialappointees views  ondisputedlegalorpoliticalissues withrespecttoacase, l controversy,orissuethatislikelytocomebeforethecourt, h shallnotmakeacommitment,pledge,orpromisethatis  ! inconsistentwiththe impartial performanceoftheadjudicative p"# dutiesoftheoffice; or  8$% @HH'COMMENT & "(   Canon5B(1)(d)doesnotprohibitacandidatefrommakinga f(#* pledgeorpromiserespectingimprovementsincourtadministration <)$+ orthefaithfuland impartial performanceofthedutiesofthe *b%, office. *F&-    ` (e)shallnotknowinglymisrepresent thejudicial ,'/ appointees hisorheridentity , orqualifications,theidentity N.)1 orqualificationsofanopponent,oranyotherfact;and     ` (4) (f)󀀀 should shallnotallowanyotherpersontodo \ forthe judicialappointee whatthe judicialappointee is X prohibitedfromdoing.     (2)Acandidateforajudicialofficemayrespondtoa |  personalattackoranattackonthecandidatesrecordaslongas ( x  theresponsedoesnotviolateCanon5B(1). $  C.  STATUSOF A JUDICIALAPPOINTEE AS A CANDIDATE. ,|    A  Candidateappliestoa judicialappointee whois seeking D  election tobeelectedtoajudicialoffice isa"candidate"for   thatofficewhen fromthedateonwhichthe judicialappointee  h filesacertificateofcandidacyinaccordancewiththe State  0 Marylandelectionlaws,butnoearlierthantwoyearspriorto , thegeneralelectionfor that theoffice ,orwhenanewly  appointedjudgetothatcourtbecomesa"candidate"inthesame 4 generalelection,whicheverfirstoccurs . 0  D.DISCIPLINE. 8#$   A judicialappointee whoisanunsuccessfulcandidatefor $4 & judicialofficeandwhoisalawyerissubjecttoattorney &!( disciplineforcampaignconduct.Asuccessfulcandidateis X(#* subjecttojudicialdisciplineforcampaignconduct. *T%, Crossreference:SeeRules16701through16781concerning +'. attorneydisciplineandRules16802through16810concerning ,'/ judicialdiscipline. \-(0 _ 2.)1 @HH' CANON6   @%Compliance x   Violationofanyofthe canonsofthisCodeofConductfor  , JudicialAppointees Canonsbya judicialappointee isgroundsfor   disciplinaryaction,includingremovalbytheappointing P   authority. L  Source:ThisRuleisderivedinpartfromformerRule1232 ~  (renumberedRule16814byRulesOrderdatedJanuary18,1996, T  effectiveJuly1,1996)andisinpartnew. *z