Ex-judges shouldn’t call selves ‘Judge,’ panel says

Once a judge doesn’t mean always a judge.

With few exceptions, a former judge may not continue to use a judicial title, according to an advisory opinion issued yesterday by the disciplinary arm of the Ohio Supreme Court.

“Former judges may not use judicial titles while practicing law, engaging in law-related or other business activities, working in government or other public-sector positions, or providing charity or community service,” the Board of Commissioners on Grievances & Discipline said.

However, “Former judges serving as retired assigned, acting and private judges may use judicial titles in case-related entries, orders, decisions and correspondence.”

The board’s opinion, in response to an inquiry, was based on Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct and Code of Judicial Conduct.

While social etiquette may suggest the “once a judge, always a judge” adage, the board found that the philosophy “is misplaced in modern American legal and judicial ethics.”

Full Article and Source:
Ex-judges shouldn’t call selves ‘Judge,’ panel says