The Judicial Gospel...

As Preached by Tulane University Law School Visiting Professor
Jeffrey M. Lipshaw

"Federal judges by and large have the reputations of being absolute paragons of integrity," said Jeffrey Lipshaw, a visiting professor at Tulane University Law School. "The perception is that they bend over backwards to avoid even the appearance of impropriety."

The Judicial Code of Conduct urges judges to behave immaculately in order to protect the integrity of the federal bench. Regarding their conduct, it says they should "freely and willingly" accept restrictions that might strike the average person as difficult or tiresome.

To that end, the code advises that a "judge should not solicit or accept anything of value from anyone seeking official action from or doing business with the court or other entity served by the judge, or from anyone whose interests may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of official duties."

Exerpted from:
  • Kate Moran, "Company facing suit took judge hunting; Experts question ethics of Porteous outing, The Times-Picayune, New Orleans, October 29, 2006, p. B-1.

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