Statutes, codes, and regulations
Washington Court Rules
Washington State Code of Judicial Conduct
Canon 3 - A Judge Shall Conduct The Judge's Personal And Extrajudicial Activities To Minimize The Risk Of Conflict With The Obligations Of Judicial Office
Rule 3.4 - Appointments To Governmental Positions

Wash. Code. Jud. Cond. 3.4

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As amended through August 27, 2024
Rule 3.4 - Appointments To Governmental Positions

A judge shall not accept appointment to a governmental committee, board, commission, or other governmental position, unless it is one that concerns the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice. A judge may represent their country, state, or locality on ceremonial occasions or in connection with historical, educational, or cultural activities.

Wash. Code. Jud. Cond. 3.4

Comment

[1] Rule 3.4 implicitly acknowledges the value of judges accepting appointments to entities that concern the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice. Even in such instances, however, a judge should assess the appropriateness of accepting an appointment, paying particular attention to the subject matter of the appointment and the availability and allocation of judicial resources, including the judge's time commitments, and giving due regard to the requirements of the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.