These summaries were prepared by McGuireWoods LLP lawyer Thomas E. Spahn. They are based on the letter opinions issued by the Virginia State Bar. Any editorial comments reflect Mr. Spahn's current personal views, and not the opinions of the Virginia State Bar, McGuireWoods or its clients. 
 
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1804

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19-Judge Conflicts

A lawyer appearing before a judge on whose behalf the lawyer had filed a supporting letter in connection with a complaint against the judge being considered by the Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission: does not have to reveal this fact to opposing counsel; has not run afoul of the Rules' prohibition on giving "anything of value" to a judge if the "gift or loan" appears to be made "to influence official action" (because the letter is not a "gift or loan"); must be careful not to state or imply that the lawyer may "influence improperly" the judge.

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn