Clerks observe the same professional standards as judges because of what rule?

• A. Clerks are exempt from the Code
• B. It is optional for clerks
• C. It is not applicable to clerks
• D. It is required by the Code of Judicial Conduct, Canon 3C(2)

Answer: (D)

Clerks observe the same professional standards as judges because the Code of Judicial Conduct, specifically Canon 3C(2), requires court personnel to uphold the same standards of conduct as judges. This extends the same ethical expectations to those who assist the judiciary, ensuring integrity, impartiality, and public trust in all court operations. Clerks handle sensitive information, interact with the public, and support judicial decision-making, so having them adhere to the same Code helps prevent conflicts of interest, maintain confidentiality, and promote consistent professional behavior across the courtroom. The other options aren’t correct because the Code isn’t optional, clerks aren’t exempt, and the requirement isn’t outside the Code itself.