A municipal court administrator may participate in a trip paid for by an attorney who practices before the judge.

• A. P
• B. I
• C. True
• D. False

Answer: (C)

The situation tests how gifts or outside sponsorships affect ethics for court staff. A municipal court administrator is not a decision-maker in cases, so participation in a professional development trip funded by an attorney who practices before the judge is allowed, as long as it’s for legitimate training and there’s no expectation of preferential treatment or undue influence. The key is maintaining independence and avoiding any appearance that the staff member’s actions could influence the judge or the court’s decisions. If the trip is purely educational, disclosed as needed, and not tied to any specific case or improper obligation, it’s permissible.