Ariz. R. Sup. Ct. 1.2
A judge shall act at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the judiciary, and shall avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety.
Ariz. R. Sup. Ct. 1.2
COMMENT
1. Public confidence in the judiciary is eroded by improper conduct and conduct that creates the appearance of impropriety. This principle applies to both the professional and personal conduct of a judge.
2. A judge should expect to be the subject of public scrutiny that might be viewed as burdensome if applied to other citizens, and must accept the restrictions imposed by the code.
3. Conduct that compromises or appears to compromise the independence, integrity, and impartiality of a judge undermines public confidence in the judiciary. Because it is not practicable to list all such conduct, the rule is necessarily cast in general terms.
4. Judges should participate in activities that promote ethical conduct among judges and lawyers, support professionalism within the judiciary and the legal profession, and promote access to justice for all.
5. Actual improprieties include violations of law, court rules, or provisions of this code. The test for appearance of impropriety is whether the conduct would create in reasonable minds a perception that the judge violated this code or engaged in other conduct that reflects adversely on the judge's honesty, impartiality, temperament, or fitness to serve as a judge. An appearance of impropriety does not exist merely because a judge has previously rendered a decision on a similar issue, has a general opinion about a legal matter that relates to the case before him or her, or may have personal views that are not in harmony with the views or objectives of either party. A judge's personal and family circumstances are generally not appropriate considerations on which to presume an appearance of impropriety.
6. A judge should initiate and participate in activities for the purpose of promoting public understanding of and confidence in the administration of justice. In conducting such activities, the judge must act in a manner consistent with this code.
7. A judge may respond to or issue statements in connection with allegations concerning the judge's conduct in a matter or to false, misleading, or unfair allegations or attacks upon the judge's character or reputation. Consistent with Rules 4.1 and 4.3 regarding judicial campaigns, a judge's response or statement at any time that counters attacks on the judge's actions, character, or reputation may serve to restore or maintain public confidence in the judiciary, subject to the requirements of Rule 2.10, paragraph (A).