New Jersey Senate Bill SCR47

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Proposes amendment to Constitution permitting justices and judges to engage in extra-judicial activities for compensation as permitted by court rule.

Impact

The proposal specifies that the total compensation a justice or judge can earn from these activities shall not exceed 15% of their annual salary. Additionally, it prohibits the acceptance of honorariums directly associated with their judicial role. This amendment could significantly impact how judges are perceived in terms of their separation from judicial duties and external influences, potentially laying the groundwork for clearer definitions of acceptable extra-judicial conduct in future.

Summary

SCR47 is a proposed Constitutional amendment which seeks to allow State Supreme Court Justices and Superior Court Judges in New Jersey to engage in certain extra-judicial activities for compensation. Under current legal provisions, these judges are prohibited from engaging in the practice of law or any other gainful pursuit while in office. The amendment aims to rectify this by formalizing a regulated framework under which judges can be compensated for specific activities outside their judicial duties, as determined by the Supreme Court's guidelines.

Contention

Supporters of SCR47 argue that this amendment allows judges to utilize their expertise without compromising their roles while potentially enhancing the judiciary's financial viability. However, there is contention surrounding the implications of permitting judges to engage in outside work. Critics raise concerns regarding ethical considerations and the integrity of the judiciary. This amendment may lead to debates over what constitutes appropriate activities for compensation and how to maintain public trust in judicial impartiality while allowing justices to cross into the professional landscape beyond the courtroom.