Code of Judicial Conduct Amended

Canon 4 of SJC Rule 3:09, Code of Judicial Conduct, pertaining to extrajudicial activities, has been amended effective January 1, 2013. Amendments include a new comment to Canon 4B on speaking about the administration of justice:

"Speaking to the Public about the Administration of Justice: To further public understanding of the essential role of the judicial branch in our system of government, judges are particularly encouraged to speak to the public, including business and community groups, about issues relating to the administration of justice. A judge must avoid giving the impression that the group or its members are in a special position to influence the judge, and where appropriate, a judge must avoid giving the impression that the judge favors the group's mission."