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

• A. True
• B. False
• C. P
• D. I

Answer: (B)

This question tests ethics around accepting gifts or benefits from people who have business before the court. In a municipal court, the administrator and the judge’s staff must avoid any gifts or invitations that come from someone who litigates before the court. A trip paid for by an attorney who practices before the judge could create both a real and a perceived possibility of influence, or favoritism, toward that attorney. Even without direct pressure, the appearance of favoritism can damage public trust in the impartiality of the court. For that reason, participation in such a trip is not appropriate, so the statement is not allowed. If an offer is made, the prudent response is to decline and consult applicable ethics rules for guidance.