New Code For Ohio Judges

The Ohio Supreme Court has announced the adoption of a revised Code of Judicial Conduct, effective March 1, 2009. The court’s web page highlights some of the new provisions:

• A rule that bars a judge or judicialcandidate from making any pledge, promise or commitment inconsistentwith the impartial performance of judicial duties. The former codeprecluded pledges, promises, or commitments and also statements thatappeared to commit the judge or judicial candidate with respect tomatters coming before the court.
• A rule thatallows judges to reference their political party affiliation incampaign advertising in primary and general elections.
• Rulesto allow a judge to make reasonable accommodations for self-representedlitigants without violating the standards of impartiality and fairness.
• A rule that permits   judges to encourage and facilitate pro bono service by Ohio   lawyers.
• Newprovisions that provide guidance to judges who preside over“specialized dockets” such as drug courts or mental health courts.
• Arule that outlines a judge’s responsibility to report others’disability/impairment or professional misconduct and a requirement tocooperate with disciplinary authorities.
• A rulethat adds two additional standards that must be met to engage in anextrajudicial activity and restricts to incidental the use of courtproperty or personnel in relation to the activity.

The announcement links to the new Code. (Mike Frisch)