Opinion 96-69

June 13,1996

Digest:         A judge may not accept contributions, express thanks for contributions or be photographed by the media accepting contributions made to a hospital fund-raising campaign.

Rules:          22 NYCRR 100.4 ( C) (3) (b)

Opinion:

         A judge inquires whether it would be permissible for him/her, as a trustee of a not-for-profit, charitable hospital that has embarked upon a substantial fund-raising initiative, to be photographed by the media, along with other hospital directors and officials, accepting and expressing thanks for contributions made to the fund-raising campaign.

         A judge may not personally participate in the solicitation of funds or use or permit the use of the prestige of judicial office for fundraising on behalf of a charitable organization. 22 NYCRR 100.4 ( C) (3)(b).

         It is the opinion of the Committee that it would, therefore, be improper for the judge to accept contributions, express thanks for contributions, or be photographed by the media accepting contributions made to the hospital fund-raising campaign.