ABA Issues Opinion on Judges' Administrative Roles - Articles

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Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on Feb 19, 2026

The American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility has released a formal opinion that provides guidance on the ethical obligations of judges under the ABA Model Code of Judicial Conduct when they are exercising administrative, employment and supervisory authority. Formal Opinion 521 states that the canons and rules governing impartiality, integrity and independence require judges to administer chambers and court staff with the same fairness and neutrality that guide adjudication. The opinion explains that ethical duties extend beyond the courtroom to include merit-based appointments, prevention of bias and harassment, and avoidance of favoritism and the appearance of impropriety in all administrative decisions. Read more in a release from the ABA.