When a “Canon” is not the same as “Shots fired"

When I was a teenager in high school, I learned that a patient heals faster when the doctor explains a surgical procedure before performing it. Likewise, I believe it is important for people to understand a process and the responsibilities of those involved. For example, I am running for Cumberland County District Court Judge Seat 5. As a judge, I would be responsible for following the North Carolina Code of Judicial Conduct.

Currently, the code is comprised of 7 Canons (rules or principles). In my opinion, Canon 2 can be considered as the fundamental and guiding principal of the Code. According to Canon 2, a judge should avoid impropriety in all of the judge’s activities. My goal would be to avoid even the appearance of impropriety.

After all, I could not uphold the integrity of the judiciary as is required by Canon 1 if I could not avoid impropriety as detailed in Canon 2. Indeed, I would work to ensure that I respected and complied with the law and at all times conducted myself in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary as is required by Canon 3.

That is what I mean when I say that I would be patient, dignified and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers and others with whom I deal in my official capacity regardless if one were representing himself or were represented by an attorney. I would accord every person the full right to be heard according to law. That too is required by Canon 3.

As much as I hope to see people made whole, I would not take it lightly if a party filed a motion for me to disqualify (recuse) myself in any proceeding where my impartiality may reasonably be questioned because I have personal knowledge about the facts in the case (facts that the parties did not present to me but that I somehow obtained on my own), or if I, my spouse, or family members knew someone involved in the case. However, I would make my personal knowledge or involvement known to all parties and that includes if I were somehow financially related to the case.

And although I have a heart for “right by the people according to law”, I would ensure that my political conduct, civic and charitable activities, and other extra-judicial activities were consistent with Canons 4-7 such that I avoided the appearance of impropriety. After all, I believe that litigation can have an emotional and mental strain on everyone involved. And like what I learned when I was a teenager, there are certain things that professionals - including judges -can do to facilitate (rather than hinder) healing. If you agree, vote Orozco for Cumberland County District Court Judge Seat 5.

… because it’s about you!