The statement 'If a clerk gives legal advice it may compromise the impartiality of the court' is true or false?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not specified
• D. Irrelevant

Answer: (B)

Maintaining neutrality means the court and everyone working there must not advocate for one side or influence how a case should be decided. When a clerk gives legal advice, they step into advocacy, offering opinions on the law or on how a party should proceed. That can create a perception of bias or even bias in fact, which undermines confidence in the court’s impartiality. The clerk’s role is to handle administrative duties and provide general procedural information, not to provide legal counsel. If a party asks for legal guidance, the proper approach is to refer them to a lawyer or explain the general rules without advising on strategy. Because giving legal advice compromises neutrality, the statement is true.