Legal Code & Legal Advice
Clerks
The Code of Judicial Conduct prohibits a Judge or court staff from "practicing law" (giving legal advice). The Code further prohibits the Justice of the Peace from engaging in communications concerning the merits of a pending judicial proceeding, or the merits of an impending claim or dispute.
Court clerks in every Court have specific instructions not to attempt to advise parties to Court cases. Sometimes this results in frustration for the public. Relying on incorrect information could result in an avoidable expense, or even losing a lawsuit.
Talking with Judges
The Code further prohibits the Justice of the Peace from engaging in communications concerning the merits of a pending judicial proceeding, or the merits of an impending claim or dispute. This means a judge can only discuss matters when all parties to a lawsuit are present during the discussions. Most people understand this when they consider how they would feel about the judge discussing their case with the other side without their knowledge or consent.
We have many packets of procedural information on specific topics that are free to the public, that contain much useful information. These include:
- Evictions
- Small Claims and Civil Justice Court
Lawyers & Legal Counsel
You should seek professional, licensed, legal counsel for advice.