Opinion 75-15
April 29, 1975

Re: Canon 5C(2)
Re: Standards of Judicial Conduct

Dear Judge

In your letter of February 27, 1975, you inquire as to the propriety of your wife accepting an invitation to her to become an Honorary or Advisory member of the Board of Directors of a newly formed bank?

The Committee recommends that.your wife not accept the invitation to be such a member of the Bank's Board of Directors. Canon 5 C(2) states:

" A judge may not serve as a. . . director of any business "

Canon 2 B, provides:

" A judge should not allow his family, social, or other relationships to influence his judicial conduct or judgment. He should not lend the prestige of his office to advance the private interest of others; nor should he permit others to convey the impression they are in a special position to influence him."

This canon is very broad in its terms, and the Commentary under states, "a judge must avoid all impropriety and the appearance of impropriety "

Because of these admonitions, the Committee recommends that your wife decline the invitation as described in your letter of February 27.

The Committee appreciates the opportunity of being of service.

/s/ GUNTER STEPHENSON, as Chairman
Committee on Standards of Judicial Conduct

GS :jss

All committee members