Rule 2.13 Administrative Appointments

When a judge picks people for court-related jobs, like clerks, guardians, appraisers, or other appointed positions, the judge has to choose based on who is actually qualified and right for the job. The judge can't pick people just because they are friends, family, or favorites. Every choice should be fair and based on merit alone.

This rule also stops judges from creating jobs that aren't really needed just to give someone a paycheck or favor. Appointments should serve a real purpose in the case, not personal relationships.

Finally, if a judge appoints someone and that person gets paid for their work, the judge can't approve payment that is more than the work is actually worth. The pay has to match the value of the service provided, nothing extra.