Opinion 11-121

November 10, 2011

Dear:

          This responds to your inquiry (11-121) asking whether you may moderate a debate of a local college debating team, wherein the proposed topics are matters of current local interest in your town.

         It is ethically permissible for you to moderate such a debate provided you avoid creating the perception that you espouse a particular viewpoint on any matters of public or political controversy or that you are involved with partisan political issues.

         Enclosed, for your convenience, is Opinion 07-63 which relates to this issue (see also 22 NYCRR 100.5[A][1]).

Very truly yours,

George D. Marlow, Assoc. Justice

Appellate Division, First Dept. (Ret.)

Committee Chair

Enc.