Me. Code. Jud. Cond. 3.2

As amended through November 25, 2024

Rule 3.2 - Governmental, Civic, or Charitable Activities

A judge shall not appear voluntarily at a public hearing before, or otherwise consult with, an executive or a legislative body or official, except

(A) In connection with matters concerning the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice or the appointment or reappointment of the judge;

(B) In connection with matters about which the judge acquired knowledge or expertise in the course of the judge's judicial duties; or

(C) When the judge is acting in a matter involving the judge's personal, legal, or economic interests, or when the judge is acting in a fiduciary capacity.

Me. Code. Jud. Cond. 3.2

Adopted July 1, 2015, effective 9/1/2015.

Advisory Notes - 2015

Rule 3.2 is stated more broadly than 1993 Canon 4(C)(1) which has a similar purpose. Like Rule 3.1, the purpose of Rule 3.2 is to enable outreach in areas where judges may provide useful observations and advice without compromising judicial independence, integrity, or impartiality. Thus the 2011 ABA Model Code Comment to Rule 3.2 notes in part: "Judges possess special expertise in matters of law, the legal system, and the administration of justice, and may properly share that expertise with governmental bodies and executive and legislative branch officials."

Judicial actions related to appointment and reappointment are also addressed in 1993 Canon 5, the Advisory Notes to Rule 1.3, and new Canon 4.

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