Opinion 92-119

November 19, 1992

Digest:         A part-time judge may serve as the president of a local civic organization which expresses opinions on zoning, developmental matters and environmental matters.

Rule:            22 NYCRR 100.5(b).

Opinion:

         A part-time judge asks whether it is permissible to serve as president of a local civic organization which expresses opinions about planning and development in the area.

         Section 100.5(b) of the Rules of the Chief Administrator permits judges to participate in civic activities, provided that the activity “does not reflect adversely on impartiality or interfere with the performance of judicial duties.” Here, the judge may serve as president of the organization as it falls within the ambit of permitted extra-judicial activities.