CJEO publishes formal written advisory opinions that address judicial ethics topics of interest to the judiciary and the public (Cal. Rules of Court, rule 9.80(i)(2); CJEO rule 6 (b).) Judicial officers and judicial candidates may request a formal opinion and members of the public and entities may suggest topics to be addressed by the committee in a formal written opinion (Cal. Rules of Court, rule 9.80(i)(1); CJEO rule 6 (a).) The committee has discretion to publish opinions on any subject it deems appropriate and to determine the form of any opinion or advice it provides. (Cal. Rules of Court, rule 9.80(i)(1) & (j)(1).) The committee invites the public to comment on draft formal opinions that the committee posts on this website prior to determining whether to approve the final formal opinions it publishes.
CJEO Formal Opinions are posted below and distributed to those who are interested in receiving copy when they are approved.