Opinion 15-98

June 17, 2015

PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL

Dear :

         This responds to your inquiry (15-98) asking if it is ethically permissible for an association of magistrates to send a letter expressing its position concerning legislation addressing a perceived disparity in the distribution of monies collected by New York’s town and village courts, which affects the operation of such courts.

          The Committee has previously determined that a judge may publicly express his/her points of view on issues directly implicating the law, legal system and administration of justice (see 22 NYCRR 100.4[C][3][b][iii]). Thus, it is permissible for an association of magistrates to so comment on behalf of its collective membership.

         Enclosed, for your convenience, is Opinion 14-139 which addresses this issue.

                                       Very truly yours,

George D. Marlow, Assoc. Justice

Appellate Division, First Dept. (Ret.)

Committee Chair

Enc.