2008-16 (November 20, 2008)
Social Activities; Appearance of Impropriety; Ordinary Social Hospitality; Canons 2 & 5

Issue: May a Judicial Official attend a small family law firm’s five-hour holiday party on board a river boat cruise ship?

Response: Based upon the facts presented, including that (1) the holiday party was by invitation only, (2) invitations were issued only to small family law firms, their guests and select Judicial Officials, (3) the party was sponsored/coordinated by family law attorneys with active court appearances, (4) it was likely that those attending the party would have cases pending before the invited Judicial Officials, and (5) the party was aboard a cruise ship and, therefore, if a Judicial Official believed that the nature of the event became compromising (i.e., created an appearance of impropriety), it would not be possible to leave, the Committee unanimously determined that attendance was not permitted.