| More recognition of authority and more emphasis on commitment By HEINZ DINTER, PH.D. |
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| Our
judges are as honest as other men, and not more so. They have, with others, the same
passions for party, for power, and the privilege of their corps. Thomas Jefferson Please click below:
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Our judges deserve more recognition of
authority and must, in turn, render a greater commitment to the community. The judicial code of conduct by which judges ply their trade, was formulated in the spirit of giving supreme strength to the code of conduct and thereby offer the maximum opportunity to one and all to respect the integrity of our judges who subscribe to a code of judicial conduct that is second to none. Will not the strength envisioned for our judiciary to rule independently, fairly, and competently be in jeopardy if We the People waver in our desire to respect judges? Judges are not simply members of a profession like bakers, bankers, and candlestick makers. Members of the judiciary have a unique place in our society — they pass judgment on the conduct of everyone. The Code of Judicial Conduct demonstrates firmness and resoluteness to give true value to the respect and honor the judge gives to his office, and to also give true value to the respect and honor We the People have for our judges. Let us remind ourselves, "The people are the masters of both Congress and courts, not to overthrow the Constitution, but to overthrow the men who pervert it." They are the words of Abraham Lincoln. The code of judicial conduct must not and does not tolerate denial of due process and prejudice against citizens. We have a government of laws, not of men. Judges must adhere to the highest standards of conduct because they are members of the highest profession; they hold the destiny of our society in their hands and each citizen who is honored to wear the robe is a role model for all of us, especially our children. It is for this reason that judges have that unique opportunity to cut crime significantly by simply being the role model all of us can look up to. A code of judicial conduct that we can respect because it is firm and leaves no room for doubt will let us continue to help teach our children that there is no finer role model than a judge who is honest, fair, and compassionate. And such non-quivering code of judicial conduct will let us emphasize to the children who are our future that a judge exemplifies this role model because judges live by the highest code of conduct possible, cemented with integrity, impartiality, and honesty. It is for these reasons that we pray our judiciary will build a solid pedestal upon which stand the defenders of our laws which protect our democratic form of government. This pedestal — upon which stand the role models for everyone — gives us pride, trust, and confidence when addressing each member of the judiciary with utmost sincerity and respect: Your Honor. |