True or False: A municipal court administrator may participate in a trip paid for by an attorney who practices before a municipal judge for whom the clerk works.

True or False: A municipal court administrator may participate in a trip paid for by an attorney who practices before a municipal judge for whom the clerk works.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (B)

Gifts and outside favors from someone who has business before the court can create a real or perceived conflict for court staff. When a municipal court administrator accepts a trip paid for by an attorney who practices before the judge the administrator works for, it can look like the administrator’s actions could be influenced by that attorney. To protect the integrity and impartiality of the court, staff should avoid accepting such gifts or trips. The proper approach is to decline the offer and seek guidance if unsure.

Gifts and outside favors from someone who has business before the court can create a real or perceived conflict for court staff. When a municipal court administrator accepts a trip paid for by an attorney who practices before the judge the administrator works for, it can look like the administrator’s actions could be influenced by that attorney. To protect the integrity and impartiality of the court, staff should avoid accepting such gifts or trips. The proper approach is to decline the offer and seek guidance if unsure.