Rule 51:4.3 Activities of Candidates for Appointive Judicial Office

If you want to become a judge through appointment instead of election, you're allowed to talk directly with the people who decide on the appointment. This includes any committee or commission that screens or nominates candidates for judicial positions. You can explain your qualifications and make your case directly to these decision-makers.

You can also ask for support and endorsements from most people or groups. The only restriction is that you cannot seek endorsements from a partisan political organization. This means groups tied to a political party can't publicly back your candidacy for the position. This rule helps keep the appointment process focused on qualifications rather than political party loyalty.