If you are unsure how to handle a potential ethics issue involving a judge, what is a recommended first step?

• A. Call the Commission to discuss the issue.
• B. Ignore it.
• C. Publish a report.
• D. File a lawsuit.

Answer: (A)

When unsure how to handle an ethics issue involving a judge, the first step is to contact the ethics commission to discuss the matter. The commission is the proper authority for interpreting ethics rules and guiding you on what conduct is required and what steps to take. Reaching out early helps you get clear direction, protects confidentiality, and ensures you follow established procedures rather than acting on your own assumptions. Ignoring the issue can allow potential problems to continue; publishing a report or filing a lawsuit bypasses due process and could be defamatory or inappropriate for handling ethics concerns.