Digest:  A judge, at a public ceremony unveiling a court case management automation program, may acknowledge the role of foundations in funding the development of the program, and may discuss and recommend future court projects for public or private funding.
 

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

Opinion:

            A judge anticipates speaking at a public unveiling of a court case management automation program. As part of the ceremony, the judge, along with other judges, will acknowledge the contributions of local foundations in funding the development of the automation program. The judges will also discuss and recommend future projects which may be publicly or privately funded. There will be no solicitation of funds at the ceremony. The judge asks if the intended participation in this event is appropriate.

            The Rules Governing Judicial Conduct allow a judge to "make recommendations to public and private fund granting organizations on projects and programs concerning the law, the legal system or the administration of justice." 22 NYCRR 100.4(C)(3)(b)(iii).

            Therefore, the judge may speak at a public ceremony unveiling a court case management automation program. The judge may acknowledge the role of foundations in funding the development of the program, and may discuss and recommend future court projects for public or private funding.