Opinion 91-57

April 25, 1991

Digest:         Judges may invite former judges to luncheon meetings, but should not discuss, in the presence of former judges, any presently pending matters or other matters inappropriate for discussion before non-judge attorneys. In court, such former judges should be addressed the same as other attorneys.

Rules:          22 NYCRR §100.2

Opinion:

         A full-time judge inquires about the propriety of inviting former judges, who now practice before the court, to bi-monthly luncheon meetings held by the judges in the court. The judge also asks about the propriety of a former judge appearing before a sitting judge.

         There is nothing unethical about inviting former judges to a judges’ luncheon. However, the judges should not discuss, in the presence of the former judges, any pending cases or other matters that would be inappropriate to discuss before a non-judge attorney. Former judges may appear in court, but should be addressed the same as other counsel; either as Mr. or Ms. or counsellor, but not as judge.