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Guidelines for Judges

Judges should be aware of the impact and implications of engaging on social media. Please review the code of conduct for specific guidance in your state.

Here are some general considerations judges should keep in mind:

  1. Professional Conduct: Judges should maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity on social media platforms. They should adhere to the same ethical standards and codes of conduct that apply in the courtroom.
  2. Impartiality and Neutrality: Judges should avoid expressing personal opinions on matters that may come before them in court. They should refrain from engaging in political discussions or making controversial statements that could compromise their impartiality.
  3. Privacy and Confidentiality: Judges must be cautious about sharing confidential or sensitive information on social media. They should not disclose details about ongoing cases, parties involved, or any other information that could violate privacy rights or compromise the integrity of the judicial process.
  4. Respect and Decorum: Judges should always maintain respectful and courteous interactions on social media. They should avoid engaging in heated debates, arguments, or personal attacks. Engaging in respectful discussions and providing accurate legal information can contribute positively to public understanding of the judicial system.
  5. Separation of Personal and Professional Life: Judges should consider creating separate accounts for personal and professional use. This helps to maintain a clear distinction between their private lives and their role as a judge, reducing the risk of misinterpretation or confusion.
  6. Awareness of Impact: Judges should be mindful of the potential impact of their social media presence. Even if their personal accounts are private, their actions and statements can still have an impact on public perception of the judiciary. Judges should be aware that their online activity can influence public confidence in the fairness and impartiality of the court.

While judges are not obligated to have social media accounts, it is important for judges to understand their potential influence and conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.

Resources for Judges