Rule 5-303.10 Practice of law.

Judges are not allowed to work as lawyers while they serve on the bench. This means a judge cannot represent clients, give legal advice for pay, or take on legal cases outside of their judicial duties.

There are a few exceptions. A judge can represent themselves in their own legal matters, including court cases or dealings with government agencies. A judge can also give free legal advice to family members or help prepare and look over legal documents for them. However, the judge still cannot formally act as that family member's lawyer in court or in any official legal setting.

The rule also makes clear that judges cannot use their position or reputation to gain an advantage for themselves or their family in legal matters. Finally, this rule does not apply to legal work a judge might do as part of military service.