Rule 51:3.3 Testifying as a Character Witness

A judge cannot go to court and testify about someone's good character just to help them out. This applies whether the case is in a regular courtroom, an administrative hearing, or any other kind of legal proceeding. Judges also can't vouch for someone's character in other ways during legal matters.

The only exception is if the judge gets subpoenaed, meaning they are legally required to testify. In that case, they can appear as a witness because they have no choice.

This rule exists because judges hold a position of trust and authority. If a judge voluntarily testified about someone's character, it could look like the judge is using their position to influence the outcome of a case unfairly. The rule keeps judges from lending their credibility to one side unless the law forces them to be involved.