Accepting a small gift from a friend on a special occasion when the friend is not before the court is proper or improper?

Accepting a small gift from a friend on a special occasion when the friend is not before the court is proper or improper?

• A. Improper
• B. Proper
• C. Cannot be determined
• D. Depends

Answer: (B)

Accepting a small gift from a friend on a special occasion is proper when the friend has no business before the court. The important idea is that a modest personal gift from someone who isn’t involved in a case before you does not create an obligation or appearance of bias. It’s acceptable as long as the gift is not intended to influence official action, is not of substantial value, and is not given in exchange for preferential treatment. If the donor had a case before you, or if the gift were large, cash, or could be seen as compensation for official acts, it would be improper.

Accepting a small gift from a friend on a special occasion is proper when the friend has no business before the court. The important idea is that a modest personal gift from someone who isn’t involved in a case before you does not create an obligation or appearance of bias. It’s acceptable as long as the gift is not intended to influence official action, is not of substantial value, and is not given in exchange for preferential treatment. If the donor had a case before you, or if the gift were large, cash, or could be seen as compensation for official acts, it would be improper.