CEO 78-57 -- September 8, 1978

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

MEMBER OF JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION CONTRIBUTING TO JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN

To: (Name withheld at the person's request.)

Prepared by: Phil Claypool

SUMMARY:

No provision of the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees would prohibit a member of a judicial nominating commission from contributing to a judicial campaign under any circumstances. Relative to the propriety of a judicial candidate accepting a contribution from a member of a nominating commission, it is suggested that the petitioner refer to the Code of Judicial Conduct and the Judicial Qualifications Commission. The Florida Bar should be contacted for information as to whether any issues are raised under the Code of Professional Responsibility.

QUESTION:

Does the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees prohibit a member of a judicial nominating commission from contributing to a judicial campaign?

Your question is answered in the negative.

We have examined the provisions of the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees, part III, Ch. 112, F. S., and find no provision which would prohibit a member of a judicial nominating commission from contributing to a judicial campaign under any circumstances. Insofar as your question relates to the propriety of a judicial candidate accepting a contribution from a member of a judicial nominating commission, we must refer you to the Code of Judicial Conduct and to the Judicial Qualifications Commission. As to whether any issues are raised under the Code of Professional Responsibility, we suggest that you contact The Florida Bar.