Rule 21-305 Use of nonpublic information.

Judges often learn private or confidential information while working on cases. This might include facts from sealed documents, details shared in private meetings, or other information that isn't available to the public. This rule says judges cannot use that information for personal gain or share it for reasons that have nothing to do with their job.

The idea behind this rule is simple. Judges get access to sensitive information because of the trust placed in their position, not so they can benefit from it personally or help others outside the courtroom. For example, a judge couldn't use inside knowledge from a business dispute to make a stock trade, or tip off a friend about information from a case before it becomes public.

This rule protects the fairness of the court system. People need to trust that judges won't misuse what they learn on the bench. When judges keep private information private, it helps make sure everyone gets treated fairly and that the legal process stays honest.