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7.    CANON 4 - AN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE MAY ENGAGE IN ACTIVITIES TO IMPROVE THE LAW, THE LEGAL SYSTEM, AND THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE.

An administrative law judge may engage in activities to improve the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice, if in doing so reasonable doubt is not cast on the capacity to decide impartially an issue that may come before the judge, the activity does not demean the judicial office, or the activity does not interfere with the proper performance of judicial duties. Such activities may include speaking, writing, lecturing, teaching, and participating in other activities concerning the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice; appearing at a public hearing before an executive or legislative body or official and otherwise consulting with an executive or legislative body or official, unless otherwise prohibited by law; and serving as a member, officer, or director of a private or public organization devoted to the improvement of the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice.

COMMENTARY - Canon 4.

A judge is in a unique position to contribute to the improvement of the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice, including revision of substantive and procedural law. To the extent that time permits, a judge is encouraged to do so, either independently or through a bar association, judicial conference or other organization dedicated to the improvement of the law. However, a judge should avoid contact with any organization or participation in any activity in which the judge may be asked to provide views on issues which may be litigated before the judge.