Good Intentions Canned

A new opinion of the South Carolina Advisory Committee on Standards of Judicial Conduct

                                                                                 OPINION NO. 6 – 2024

RE: Propriety of a full-time magistrate court judge encouraging others to make non-monetary donations (i.e. canned goods, used clothing, or toys) to nonprofit organizations.

FACTS

A full-time magistrate court judge encouraging others to make non-monetary donations to nonprofit organizations. Certain local nonprofits conduct drives to collect for canned foods, clothing, or toys. The judge inquires into the propriety of encouraging others to donate to these philanthropic efforts/organizations if the judge makes the suggestions in a personal capacity and not referencing their status as judge.

CONCLUSION

A magistrate should not request or encourage others to make donations.