Opinion 09-155

October 28, 2009

Hon.

Dear Judge:

         This responds to your inquiry (09-155) asking whether you may serve as president of a non-profit organization which serves the community. There is no ethical prohibition to serving as president of a non-profit organization, and the permissible use of your judicial title is set forth in Opinions 05-146 and 99-109, which are enclosed for your convenience (see also 22 NYCRR 100.4[C][3][b][iv];and 100.4[C][3][b][i-iii]). Notwithstanding the permissible uses of judicial title, please keep in mind that a judge may not use the prestige of his/her judicial office to advance the private interests of any such organization.

Very truly yours,

George D. Marlow

Justice of the Supreme Court (Ret.)

Committee Chair

Encls.