Navigation Judicial Campaign Conduct Forums Scheduled May 2 and 3
When it comes to elections, campaigns for judicial office are never “politics as usual.” All candidates for judgeships must comply with the requirements of Canon 7 of Florida’s Code of Judicial Conduct. These rules specifically govern judicial candidates and are the strictest standards imposed in any election.
“The judicial system cannot function effectively without public confidence in the integrity, independence, and impartiality of the individuals who serve as judges,” said Judge Matthew Lucas, chair of the Supreme Court of Florida’s Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee, which is organizing the forums in conjunction with The Florida Bar Board of Governors. Noting that campaign misconduct can undermine that confidence and impair the judicial branch’s ability to carry out its responsibilities, Judge Lucas emphasized that “all candidates for judicial office must be familiar with the rules governing judicial elections and avoid any abuse of the elections process.”
The standards governing judicial elections will be explained to candidates, campaign managers, staff, the news media, and others in public forums designed to raise awareness regarding the requirements of Canon 7. The forums are scheduled for Thursday and Friday, May 2 and 3, in five cities throughout the state, each drawing additional participation from one or more adjacent circuits. Candidates unable to be present will have the opportunity to participate at a statewide webinar on May 3. All of the forums will begin at 1 p.m. Eastern Time.
