Before you begin your class discussion, locate one code of ethics from your choice of a probation, parole, or correctional agency. Respond to the following questions regarding the code of ethics that...

Educating for Judicial Ethics JUDICIAL ETHICS EDUCATION IN THE FEDERAL COURTS JOHN S. COOKE Given the importance of judicial ethics to the public’s confidence in the judiciary, educating judges about ethics is a high and continuing priority in the federal courts. People appointed as federal judges typically have strong records of integrity and are motivated to act ethically, but inadvertent mistakes sometimes occur, and they harm the reputation of the judge and the judiciary. The Federal Judicial Center, the education agency for the federal courts, works closely with the Judicial Conference committees responsible for administering and interpret- ing the sources of ethical rules: statutes and the Code of Conduct for United States Judges. Together they have developed curricula for in-person programs and resources in hard-copy and online formats, as well as television programs. Ethics is included in orientation programs for new judges and in annual continuing education programs for judges. These sessions are usually interactive discussions, often using real or hypothetical problems. By regularly cov- ering ethics, the goal is to heighten judges’ sensitivity to ethical issues. “Deference to the judgments and rulings of courts depends upon public confidence in the integrity and independence of judges.” Code of Conduct for United States Judges, Canon 1 Commentary. f the countless decisions that judges make, few are more likely than ethical mis- Otakes to undermine public trust in the judiciary or to embarrass individual judges. The editors’ decision to devote this issue of the Justice System Journal to judi- cial ethics reflects that, even with all the complex legal, social, and administrative issues facing the courts, adherence to established ethical standards must always be a priority. The importance of judicial ethics is evidenced not only in timeless principles but also in contemporary headlines. At its September 2006 meeting, the Judicial Conference of the...