Ariz. R. Sup. Ct. 2.8

As amended through August 22, 2024

Rule 2.8 - Decorum, Demeanor, and Communication with Jurors

(A) A judge shall require order and decorum in proceedings before the court.

(B) A judge shall be patient, dignified, and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers, court staff, court officials, and others with whom the judge deals in an official capacity, and shall require similar conduct of lawyers, court staff, court officials, and others subject to the judge's direction and control.

(C) A judge shall not commend or criticize jurors for their verdict other than in a court order or opinion in a proceeding, but may express appreciation to jurors for their service to the judicial system and the community.

Ariz. R. Sup. Ct. 2.8

Added June 2, 2009, effective 9/1/2009.

COMMENT

1. The duty to hear all proceedings with patience and courtesy is not inconsistent with the duty imposed in Rule 2.5 to dispose promptly of the business of the court. Judges can be efficient and businesslike while being patient and deliberate.

2. Commending or criticizing jurors for their verdict may imply a judicial expectation in future cases and may impair a juror's ability to be fair and impartial in a subsequent case. There are several exceptions to this general rule, however, and with certain qualifications judges may speak to a discharged jury following the return of a verdict. See Arizona Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee Opinion 01-01 (reissued January 22, 2003). This rule does not preclude a judge from communicating with jurors personally, in writing, or through court personnel to obtain information for the purpose of improving the administration of justice.