California Ethics Committee Issues Opinion on Judicial Participation in Inns of Court -- Committee encourages judicial membership while outlining ethical considerations for judges participating in Inns of Court activities. A California judicial ethics committee on Tuesday issued a formal opinion advising that judicial participation in Inns of Court is not only permitted but encouraged as an important form of judicial engagement.
The guidance was issued by the California Supreme Court Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (CJEO)—a body which is appointed and authorized by, but works independently of, the California Supreme Court. In CJEO Formal Opinion 2025-030, the committee advises that membership, serving on pupilage teams, and performing leadership roles in Inns of Court are all appropriate extrajudicial activities under the California Code of Judicial Ethics. The committee emphasizes that such participation promotes professionalism, integrity, ethics, and civility within the legal community, and is a laudable form of judicial engagement. While participation is encouraged, the committee notes that judges must remain mindful of ethical considerations. For example, should a professional mentorship evolve into a close personal friendship, disqualification or disclosure may be required. As always, judges must conduct themselves in such a manner that upholds the integrity, independence, and impartiality of the judiciary. “Judges have a unique perspective and much to offer other members of Inns of Court,” said Justice Douglas P. Miller, vice-chair of CJEO. “This opinion makes clear that judicial participation in Inns of Court is a desirable outlet for judges to contribute to the improvement of the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice, as encouraged by the Code of Judicial Ethics.” CJEO issued the opinion after circulating a draft for public comment in May of this year.About the Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (CJEO) -- The Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions is a 12-member advisory committee that includes appellate justices, trial court judges, two retired judges, and a commissioner. The committee is appointed and authorized by the California Supreme Court, but its work is independent of the court, the Judicial Council, and all other entities. Its opinions are advisory and do not necessarily reflect the views of the California Supreme Court or any other entity. The committee issues formal, informal, and expedited advisory opinions on proper judicial conduct pursuant to the California Code of Judicial Ethics and other authorities. CJEO’s website includes advisory opinions, resources dedicated to specific judicial assignments and issues, and extensive judicial ethics tools and resource materials for the benefit of the bench and the public.
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