Standard 1(C) Using the prestige of office to advance private interests

1. Maintaining the prestige of judicial office is essential to a system of government in which the judiciary functions independently of the executive and legislative branches. Respect for the judicial office facilitates the orderly conduct of legitimate judicial functions. Judges should distinguish between proper and improper use of the prestige of office in all of their activities.

2. Except as provided in standard 1(F), a judge must avoid lending the prestige of judicial office for the advancement of the private interests of the judge or others.

3. In a criminal case, a judge may not approve a plea agreement or disposition that requires or permits the defendant to make a charitable monetary contribution or donation, or any other monetary payment other than a statutorily authorized fine, cost, or restitution or payment in satisfaction of an injury pursuant to Code § 19.2-151, as a condition of a suspended sentence or the reduction or dismissal of charges.

4. The following illustrations are examples of activities that are not permitted:

(a) It would be improper for a judge to allude to his or her judgeship to gain a personal advantage such as deferential treatment when stopped by a police officer for a traffic offense. Similarly, judicial email or letterhead must not be used for conducting a judge’s personal business.

(b) A judge must not use the judge’s judicial position to gain advantage for anyone or any entity in a civil, criminal, or administrative proceeding.