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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 Notice: This slip opinion has not been certified by the Clerk of the Supreme Court for Publication in the permanent law reports.}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 Until certified, it is subject to revision or withdrawal. In the event of discrepancies between this slip opinion and the opinion certified for Publication, the certified opinion controls.}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 Readers are requested to bring errors to the attention of the Clerk of the Supreme Court, PO Box 502165 Saipan, MP 96950, phone (670) 236-9715, fax (670) 236-9702, e-mail SupremeCourtClerk@justice.gov.mp}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 .}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 IN THE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 SUPREME COURT}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 OF }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 THE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid14446637 {\shp{\*\shpinst\shpleft1980\shptop60\shpright6660\shpbottom60\shpfhdr0\shpbxcolumn\shpbxignore\shpbypara\shpbyignore\shpwr3\shpwrk0\shpfblwtxt0\shpz0\shplid1026{\sp{\sn shapeType}{\sv 20}}{\sp{\sn fFlipH}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFlipV}{\sv 0}} {\sp{\sn shapePath}{\sv 4}}{\sp{\sn fFillOK}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFilled}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fArrowheadsOK}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fPseudoInline}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}}{\shprslt{\*\do\dobxcolumn\dobypara\dodhgt8192 \dpline\dpptx0\dppty0\dpptx4680\dppty0\dpx1980\dpy60\dpxsize4680\dpysize0\dplinew15\dplinecor0\dplinecog0\dplinecob0}}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818\charrsid7560640 IN THE MATTER OF JUAN T. LIZAMA,}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 ASSOCIATE JUDGE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818\charrsid7560640 OF THE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12083028\charrsid7560640 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 COMMO}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12083028\charrsid7560640 NWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 ISLANDS \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14446637 {\b\insrsid14446637\charrsid14446637 {\shp{\*\shpinst\shpleft1980\shptop4\shpright6660\shpbottom4\shpfhdr0\shpbxcolumn\shpbxignore\shpbypara\shpbyignore\shpwr3\shpwrk0\shpfblwtxt0\shpz1\shplid1027{\sp{\sn shapeType}{\sv 20}}{\sp{\sn fFlipH}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFlipV}{\sv 0}} {\sp{\sn shapePath}{\sv 4}}{\sp{\sn fFillOK}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFilled}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fArrowheadsOK}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fPseudoInline}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}}{\shprslt{\*\do\dobxcolumn\dobypara\dodhgt8193 \dpline\dpptx0\dppty0\dpptx4680\dppty0\dpx1980\dpy4\dpxsize4680\dpysize0\dplinew15\dplinecor0\dplinecog0\dplinecob0}}}}{\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 SUPREME COURT NO. 2007-SCC-0029-JDA \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14446637 {\b\insrsid14446637\charrsid14446637 {\shp{\*\shpinst\shpleft1980\shptop256\shpright6660\shpbottom256\shpfhdr0\shpbxcolumn\shpbxignore\shpbypara\shpbyignore\shpwr3\shpwrk0\shpfblwtxt0\shpz2\shplid1028{\sp{\sn shapeType}{\sv 20}}{\sp{\sn fFlipH}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFlipV}{\sv 0}} {\sp{\sn shapePath}{\sv 4}}{\sp{\sn fFillOK}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFilled}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fArrowheadsOK}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fPseudoInline}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 1}}}{\shprslt{\*\do\dobxcolumn\dobypara\dodhgt8194 \dpline\dpptx0\dppty0\dpptx4680\dppty0\dpx1980\dpy256\dpxsize4680\dpysize0\dplinew15\dplinecor0\dplinecog0\dplinecob0}}}}{\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14446637 {\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 SLIP OPINION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14446637 {\b\insrsid7560640\charrsid14446637 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14446637 {\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 Cite as:}{\b\insrsid7560640\charrsid14446637 }{\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 2008 MP }{ \b\insrsid12390676\charrsid14446637 20}{\b\insrsid1580899\charrsid14446637 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid525928\charrsid7560640 Decided December}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12063808\charrsid7560640 17}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 , 2008 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7039250\charrsid7560640 Bruce A. Bradley, Esq., }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 Rule 5(K) Special Ethics Prosecutor, for the Commonwealth \par Steven M. Newman, Esq}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 and F. Randall Cunliffe, Esq.,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1580899\charrsid7560640 for Associate Judge Juan T. Lizama. \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818\charrsid7560640 \par BEFORE:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 Miguel S. D}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818\charrsid7560640 emapan, Chief Justice \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 D}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818\charrsid7560640 emapan, C.J.:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5206544 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 1\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2374792\charrsid7560640 Before this Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2374792\charrsid7560640 are }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 the findings and recommendations of the Rule 5(K) special ethics prosecutor (}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 SEP}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11887647\charrsid7560640 ) regarding}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 judicial disciplinary proc}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 edures against Juan T. Lizama, associate j}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 udge of the Commonwealth Superior Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11887647\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs23\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3957769\charrsid7560640 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s22\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs23\fs24\super\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 \chftn }{ \fs24\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 \tab Judge Lizama retired from the bench effective May 24, 2008.}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 This Court has}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 jurisdiction pursuant to the Commonwealth }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12797377\charrsid7560640 Rules of Judicial Disciplinary P}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 rocedure.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 This Court}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 approve}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 the SEP\rquote s recommendations}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12797377\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14287716\charrsid7560640 regarding summary disposition }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12797377\charrsid7560640 and impose}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15272407\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12797377\charrsid7560640 sanctions on Lizama as specified later in this opinion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4999818 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792\charrsid7560640 I}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10887792 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 2\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117421\charrsid7560640 On April 10, 2007, Presiding Judge Robert C. Naraja sent Chief Justice Miguel S. Demapan a letter regarding alleged judicial misconduct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117421\charrsid7560640 The Supreme Court treated the letter as a disciplinary complaint and initiated the current proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 On April 13,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11945854\charrsid7560640 2007}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6700037\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11945854\charrsid7560640 the Supreme Court issued }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6700037\charrsid7560640 an order to appoint an investigative j}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 udge, and pursuant thereto, R}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2719149\charrsid7560640 ichard H. Benson was appointed pro t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 em.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117421 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 3\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 The disciplin}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 ary complaint is based on: (1) }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 \rquote s July 17, 2006 letter to the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Presiding}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 , copied to }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 David A. Wiseman, alleging }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11945854\charrsid7560640 misconduct by}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8078812\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15271542\charrsid7560640 Wiseman; and (2) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s March 28, 2007 letter to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Presiding}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 , copied to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8078812\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Wiseman and the six attorneys appearing in the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 case, further alleging }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11416134\charrsid7560640 misconduct by}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8078812\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Wiseman and attaching the 2006 letter.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 4\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 In July 2006 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8078812\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Wiseman was assigned to}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9635338\charrsid7560640 decide a motion to disqualify }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama from presiding further in the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9635338\charrsid7560640 case.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s 2006 letter stated}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9635338\charrsid7560640 that because comments by }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9635338\charrsid7560640 Wiseman}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 indicated bias, he should be replaced and another judge assigned to decide the motion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama wrote the letter }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid468833\charrsid7560640 when }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 both the }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 case and the motion to disqualify were pending. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 5\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s 2007 letter was w}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 ritten about a week after }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Wiseman granted}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4741374\charrsid7560640 the motion disqualifying }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Lizama, and while the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 case was still pending.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792\charrsid7560640 The letter }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 is critical of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Wisem}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 an in the following ways: }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Wiseman was biased and co}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 mmented on a pending case,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Wiseman improperly handled the disqual}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2186149\charrsid7560640 ification matter, and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid222523\charrsid7560640 Wiseman\rquote s language }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 unnecessarily degraded a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid222523\charrsid7560640 member of the judiciary.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 When asked at the May 24, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11416134\charrsid7560640 2007 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid222523\charrsid7560640 disciplinary }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11416134\charrsid7560640 hearing}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 what evidenc}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13570082\charrsid7560640 e led him to believe that }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Wiseman was biased, Lizama adm}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid222523\charrsid7560640 itted it was based on hearsay, suspicion, and surmise.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155792 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 6\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Pursuant to notice, a preliminary investigation was held on May 24, 2007.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Lizama filed a written response to the complaint on May 21, 2007, stating}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2170227\charrsid7560640 that}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 he wrote the 2006 letter: (1) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 to alert Judge Naraja and Judge Wisema}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 n of a potential conflict, (2) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 to alert the Presiding }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11945854\charrsid7560640 Judge} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 of a problem in the Superior Court\rquote s p}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 rocedure for handling recusals, and (3) t}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 o keep the proceedings transparent in the eyes of the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Ma}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 liti}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 counsel and their clients.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 Lizama acknowledged that he wrote the 2007 letter to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9141524\charrsid7560640 Presiding }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10756620\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 Naraja}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2170227\charrsid7560640 , attached the 2006 letter,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2170227\charrsid7560640 and distributed copies to the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2170227\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2170227\charrsid7560640 attorneys.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14625229 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 7\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 At }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 the May 24, 2007 hearing, }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112816\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8078812\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 Wiseman testified that he had transcripts of}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 two proceedings in which }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 Lizama spoke negatively of him in open court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 In an effort }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 to determine whether }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s letters were }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9386454\charrsid7560640 part of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 a broader}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9386454\charrsid7560640 course}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 of judicial impropriety, especially with regard to di}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 sparaging a fellow judge, }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16609102\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 Wiseman was requested to produce the transcripts. }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 8 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5911169\charrsid7560640 On May 25, the investigative r}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 eport }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12394344\charrsid7560640 was filed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15368188\charrsid7560640 , which }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 fou}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2231277\charrsid7560640 nd a lack of evidence that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16609102\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 Wiseman violated the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 However, the Supplemental Investigative Report}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7299175\charrsid7560640 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7299175\charrsid7560640 SIR}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7299175\charrsid7560640 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 , filed on October 1, 2007, concluded }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11945854\charrsid7560640 regarding Lizama }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7299175\charrsid7560640 that }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12267075\charrsid7560640 reasonable cause existed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703\charrsid7560640 to submit the complaint to the Supreme }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4784897\charrsid7560640 Court for a formal hearing. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13531703 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 9\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793\charrsid7560640 On January 29, 2008}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12267075\charrsid7560640 , the}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793\charrsid7560640 SEP filed a motion for }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12267075\charrsid7560640 summary disposition which this C}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15272407\charrsid7560640 ourt will now}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793\charrsid7560640 address.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793\charrsid7560640 SEP amended formal proceedings on February 7, 2008, to add an additional charge to conform to proof already on record.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793\charrsid7560640 II}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991793 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 10\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3016905\charrsid7560640 The imposition}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 of judicial sanctions is}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3016905\charrsid7560640 a matter of first impression for}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 this Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 In addition to the Commonwealth\rquote s Rules of Jud}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 icial Disciplinary Procedure, this Court}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 look}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3016905\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 to othe}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3016905\charrsid7560640 r jurisdictions to establish our}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 standard of review.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 Other courts have stated that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3016905\charrsid7560640 in order }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 t}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 o impose any degree of discipline upon a judge, the evidence regarding the charges against him or her m}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 ust be clear and convincing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 In re LaMotte,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 341 So.2d 513}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 , 516}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 (Fla.1977).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 While this Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 primarily focus}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10036720\charrsid7560640 es}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3423252\charrsid7560640 on the specific charges enumerated by the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 SEP, this Court, under Rule 3(s) of the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4784897\charrsid7560640 Commonwealth }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 Rules of Judicia}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4784897\charrsid7560640 l Disciplinary Procedure}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 , can order sanctions based on the entirety of the record of conduct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 Graham, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 610 So.2d 1273}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9782117\charrsid7560640 , 1276}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3823261\charrsid7560640 (1993)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14904778\charrsid7560640 finding that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14904778\charrsid7560640 [c]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16543425\charrsid7560640 onduct unbecoming a member of the judicia}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4527581\charrsid7560640 ry . . . }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16543425\charrsid7560640 may also be proved by evidence of an accumulation of small and ostensibly innocuous incidents which, when considered together, emerge as a pattern of hostile conduct unbec}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 oming a member of the judiciary.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 ).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 In reviewing the investigative judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 's findings and concl}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 usions, this court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 undertake}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 s}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 an independent examination of the record to determine which, if any, of the charges are supported by clear and convincing evidence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 Wenger v. Commission on Judicial Performance}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 29 Cal.3d 615, 622 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11995081\charrsid7560640 (1981}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10121387\charrsid7560640 ).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 This Court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 give}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277995\charrsid7560640 s}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 weight to the findings and conclusions of the{\*\bkmkstart sp_233_747}{\*\bkmkstart SDU_747}{\*\bkmkend sp_233_747}{\*\bkmkend SDU_747} SEP}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10121387\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 {\*\bkmkstart citeas((Cite_as:_33_Cal.3d_739,_*747)} {\*\bkmkend citeas((Cite_as:_33_Cal.3d_739,_*747)}Id}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6576475\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4534143\charrsid7560640 at}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10121387\charrsid7560640 622-}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4534143\charrsid7560640 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10121387\charrsid7560640 3.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16543425\charrsid7560640 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 III \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3811285\charrsid7560640 Ex Parte or Other Communication: Canon 3(A)(4)}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3811285 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15232381\charrsid7560640 11}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5718458\charrsid7560640 As detailed in }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2305856\charrsid7560640 the SIR}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5860674\charrsid7560640 , }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5718458\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s 2006 and 2007 letters violated Canon 3(A)(4) of the Commonwealth Code of Judicial Conduct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16738664\charrsid7560640 The Canon }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 requires that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 A judge should accord to every person who is legally }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6387436\charrsid7560640 interested in}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 a proceeding, or his lawyer, full right to be }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6387436\charrsid7560640 heard according}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 to law, and except as authorized by law, neither initiate nor consider }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 ex parte}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 or other communications }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6387436\charrsid7560640 concerning a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6305626\charrsid7560640 pending or impending proceeding.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915875\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Judic. Cond.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1987135\charrsid7560640 3(A)(4)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7935545\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7935545\charrsid7560640 An ex parte communication is defined as }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583507\charrsid7560640 contact}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5071367\charrsid7560640 that does not involve all interested parties to a case, but }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10450787\charrsid7560640 is more importantly }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5071367\charrsid7560640 one that improperly advances cert}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8140640\charrsid7560640 ain parties\rquote interest.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8140640\charrsid7560640 Roberts v. Commission on Judicial Performance}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8140640\charrsid7560640 , 33 Cal.3d 739}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3823261\charrsid7560640 , 747 (1983)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8140640\charrsid7560640 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3548250\charrsid7560640 Lizama does not contest that he sent the 2006 and 2007 letters.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6123964\charrsid7560640 This Court gives great deference to the findings of the SEP, in that both letters concern a pending matter, even if they are not necessarily ex parte.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16738664 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 12\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5860674\charrsid7560640 In this case}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10450787\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5071367\charrsid7560640 Lizama is a party to the motion to disqualify}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9398677\charrsid7560640 ; Judge Wiseman is the judge overseeing the case.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15023516\charrsid7560640 However, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9398677\charrsid7560640 Lizama }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15023516\charrsid7560640 is still a jurist subject to the Canons of Judicial Conduct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15023516\charrsid7560640 By including Judge Wiseman in the 2006 letter, Lizama }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3548250\charrsid7560640 departed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2380955\charrsid7560640 from the required ne utrality of a jurist to an advocate for his own interests.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15422859\charrsid7560640 Similarly, his 2}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15489922\charrsid7560640 007 letter also advocates his interests}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15422859\charrsid7560640 , this time including the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13185631\charrsid7560640 parties to the case as his audience.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15422859\charrsid7560640 This Court cannot speculate as to Lizama\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13185631\charrsid7560640 motives in sending these letters.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13185631\charrsid7560640 However, it is clear that a judge subject to a motion to disqualify cannot attempt to sway}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1142871\charrsid7560640 the judge overseeing his disqualification.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10096055\charrsid7560640 Presiding Judge Naraja had}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13983342\charrsid7560640 referred the motion to disqualify}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3040506\charrsid7560640 to Judge Wiseman.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3040506\charrsid7560640 Lizama must }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16525017\charrsid7560640 proceed no }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4598942\charrsid7560640 further}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11028083\charrsid7560640 in his cases}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4598942\charrsid7560640 until}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16525017\charrsid7560640 all recusal i}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3040506\charrsid7560640 ssues are resolved}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7503535\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs23\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14242674\charrsid7560640 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s22\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs23\fs24\super\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 \chftn }{\fs24\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 \tab }{\fs24\cf1\insrsid12779707\charrsid7560640 The Canons mandate that a judge may proceed no further in a case where he or she is subject to disqualification. NMI C. Judic. Cond. 3(D)(c). This charge is addressed later in this opinion.}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5860674\charrsid7560640 Even if Lizama felt}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1142871\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Judge}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5860674\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1142871\charrsid7560640 Wiseman was biased, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5140042\charrsid7560640 these communications undermine the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1712825\charrsid7560640 fundamental }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid616420\charrsid7560640 tenet that the disqualifying}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454726\charrsid7560640 motion}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid616420\charrsid7560640 judge decides th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454726\charrsid7560640 e matter, not the judge being considered for disqualification}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid616420\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808853\charrsid7560640 Regardless }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523728\charrsid7560640 of whether}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454726\charrsid7560640 either letter was truly}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808853\charrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808853\charrsid7560640 ex parte}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid808853\charrsid7560640 in the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11339725\charrsid7560640 traditional sense of not including all parties, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13178526\charrsid7560640 both were }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13178526\charrsid7560640 co}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14635259\charrsid7560640 mmunications concerning}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11339725\charrsid7560640 a pending . . . }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13178526\charrsid7560640 proceeding}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13178526\charrsid7560640 that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6581652\charrsid7560640 is }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13178526\charrsid7560640 prohibited by Canon 3(A)(4).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523728\charrsid7560640 SEP cites }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523728\charrsid7560640 Roberts}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523728\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8679051\charrsid7560640 for the proposition that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2325645\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s letters were examples of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2325645\charrsid7560640 impermissible personal involvement in the litigation}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2325645\charrsid7560640 and improper advocacy.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2325645\charrsid7560640 Id. }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119845\charrsid7560640 at 747;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2325645\charrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6581652\charrsid7560640 see also Re Inquiry concerning}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15995151\charrsid7560640 Judge No. 1228, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15995151\charrsid7560640 259 Ga 146}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 (1989)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15995151\charrsid7560640 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 where d}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6515387\charrsid7560640 isciplinary sanctions }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6581652\charrsid7560640 were }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6515387\charrsid7560640 filed }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6581652\charrsid7560640 when}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15995151\charrsid7560640 a judge initiated communications regarding his recusal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6515387\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 to } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6553808\charrsid7560640 an }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 attorney}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15945082\charrsid7560640 ); }{ \cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid162830\charrsid7560640 Ryan v. Commission On Judicial Performance}{\cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15945082\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15945082\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid162830\charrsid7560640 45 Cal.3d 518}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid997356\charrsid7560640 (1988) }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16398915\charrsid7560640 (h}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15945082\charrsid7560640 olding that despite the lack of prejudice as a result of a judge\rquote s ex parte}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14551833\charrsid7560640 communications, his behavior was sanctionable)}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7428092\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 T}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7428092\charrsid7560640 he }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9465393\charrsid7560640 SIR}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 must be given}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9465393\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7428092\charrsid7560640 its }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 proper weight; therefore, this Court}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3954038\charrsid7560640 find}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 s}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3954038\charrsid7560640 that clear and convincing evidence has been presented to find a violation of Canon 3(A)(4). }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3811285 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16086928\charrsid7560640 Public comment}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 : Canon 3(A}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5719741\charrsid7560640 )(6)}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 13\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 The charge of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11886064\charrsid7560640 inappropriate }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 public comment pertains specifically to the 2007 letter, which was provided to the six attorneys in the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 Maliti}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5860674\charrsid7560640 At issue is whether }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s dissemina}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9109791\charrsid7560640 tion to the six attorneys }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 constitute} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9109791\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7306254\charrsid7560640 public comment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3752813\charrsid7560640 While it is arguable that Lizama could not know for sure that the attorneys would reveal the letters to the public}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949353\charrsid7560640 , as the SEP states,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2179039\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6368133\charrsid7560640 these letters, like }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9109791\charrsid7560640 officially filed motions, are}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6368133\charrsid7560640 accessible as public information, especially in such a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid196811\charrsid7560640 high profile, media covered trial.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9109791\charrsid7560640 Specifically, Canon 3(A}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949353\charrsid7560640 )(6) prohibits }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949353\charrsid7560640 public comment about a pending or impending}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid72289\charrsid7560640 proceeding in any court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8741213\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Judic. Cond.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9109791\charrsid7560640 3(A}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7305261\charrsid7560640 )(6).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15158100 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 14\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11145047\charrsid7560640 O}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 ther }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12854370\charrsid7560640 jurisdictions indicate that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 comment}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12854370\charrsid7560640 s}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944303\charrsid7560640 which}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 may affect }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12854370\charrsid7560640 a proceeding\rquote s out}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 come cannot be tolerated.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 See}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 }{\cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 In re Charge of Judicial Misconduct}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 , }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 47 F.3d 399}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16604446\charrsid7560640 , 400}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892360\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid997356\charrsid7560640 (10th Cir. 1995) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892360\charrsid7560640 (a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid997356\charrsid7560640 j}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 udge's public comments clearly related to a matter}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 before him, and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12140212\charrsid7560640 were made outside the context of the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10894440\charrsid7560640 official pro}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11106678\charrsid7560640 ceedings).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11106678\charrsid7560640 Most dangerous is the public perception that }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16604446\charrsid7560640 a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14699042\charrsid7560640 judge }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2374792\charrsid7560640 is }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14699042\charrsid7560640 impartial and that his obj}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6817773\charrsid7560640 ec}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15868216\charrsid7560640 tivity has been compromised as}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6817773\charrsid7560640 an actor in the proceedings}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6817773\charrsid7560640 .}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15868216\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15868216\charrsid7560640 In re McCully}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15868216\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4201137\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15868216\charrsid7560640 942 P.2d 327}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid71772\charrsid7560640 , 331}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9201637\charrsid7560640 (Utah, 1997)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14515674\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14515674\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s motivation behind these comments was}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6817773\charrsid7560640 to ensure that the proceedings remained transparent to the counsel and t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid150835\charrsid7560640 he Maliti heirs.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid150835\charrsid7560640 While this may be well-intentioned, it is not his duty, as the party potentially }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14515674\charrsid7560640 to be }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid150835\charrsid7560640 disqualified, to sway the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15217837\charrsid7560640 outcome of the case.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 U.S. v. Microsoft Corp}{\cs19\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 .}{ \cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 ,}{\cs19\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 253 F.3d 34}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14509059\charrsid7560640 , 112 (2001) }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155919\charrsid7560640 (}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4155919\charrsid7560640 It is no excuse that the Judge may have intended to \lquote educate\rquote the public about the case or to rebut \lquote public misperceptions\rquote purportedly caused by the parties}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5651472\charrsid7560640 ;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 see also In re Boston's Children First}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 , 244 F.3d 164}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16663980\charrsid7560640 , 167}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 (1st Cir.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5651472\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 2001); }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 In re IBM Corp.,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 45 F.3d 641}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16663980\charrsid7560640 , 643}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 (2d Cir.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16212306\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 1995); }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 United States v. Cooley,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 1 F.3d 985}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14905173\charrsid7560640 , 992}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 (10th Cir.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16212306\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5264113\charrsid7560640 1993)}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14515674\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15217837\charrsid7560640 Lizama was not merely discussing procedural matters with the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Presiding}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15217837\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 J}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11887647\charrsid7560640 udge;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15217837\charrsid7560640 he was }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15158100\charrsid7560640 attempting to inform the public, which }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16276435\charrsid7560640 necessarily }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14905173\charrsid7560640 creates culpability under Canon 3(A}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12942957\charrsid7560640 )(6).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8145816\charrsid7560640 While Lizama did not }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10818114\charrsid7560640 alert the press himself}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9897089\charrsid7560640 , including the attorneys in his}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10818114\charrsid7560640 letter}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8145816\charrsid7560640 is tantamount to doing so.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8084580 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 15\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 This Court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13139016\charrsid7560640 must protect against }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 the appearance of i}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117837\charrsid7560640 mpropriety }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12332028\charrsid7560640 in order }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117837\charrsid7560640 to instill public confidence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid805968\charrsid7560640 because}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid805968\charrsid7560640 [j]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13139016\charrsid7560640 udges who covet publicity, or convey the appearance that they do, lead any objective observer to wonder whether their judgments are being influenced by the prospect of favorable coverage in the media.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 Microsoft}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 253 F.3d 34}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11435712\charrsid7560640 at}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5651472\charrsid7560640 115}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid731729\charrsid7560640 Lizama \rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117837\charrsid7560640 public comments were not only improper, but also would lead a reasonable, informed obs}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid731729\charrsid7560640 erver to question his}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6117837\charrsid7560640 impartiality}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14819027\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8084580\charrsid7560640 Since the t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12278850\charrsid7560640 ime for rehearing was still pending}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8084580\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid731729\charrsid7560640 and the letter itself discussed }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4405200\charrsid7560640 such confidential, court-sensitive procedural matters}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11362589\charrsid7560640 , its }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5782939\charrsid7560640 dissemination was}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16188439\charrsid7560640 in violation of C}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid731729\charrsid7560640 anon 3(A}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15690939\charrsid7560640 )(6).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8327862 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15818285\charrsid7560640 Impugn}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4545162\charrsid7560640 ing the}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6775873\charrsid7560640 I}{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15818285\charrsid7560640 ntegrity }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4545162\charrsid7560640 of the }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6775873\charrsid7560640 J}{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15818285\charrsid7560640 udiciary}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4545162\charrsid7560640 : Canons 1 and 2A and Proposed Rule 6(a)(1)}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16318776 \par }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 16\tab }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16318776\charrsid7560640 SEP }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13388585\charrsid7560640 also avers that Lizama }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16318776\charrsid7560640 violated Canons }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13398125\charrsid7560640 1}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16318776\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2973121\charrsid7560640 and }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16318776\charrsid7560640 2A.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4985678\charrsid7560640 Canon 1 decrees }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13388585\charrsid7560640 that }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4985678\charrsid7560640 [a] judge should participate in establishing, maintaining, and enforcing, and should himself observe, high standards of conduct so the integrity and independence of the judiciary }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10494432\charrsid7560640 may be preserved.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1245732\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Judic. Cond. 1}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13200957\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid358504\charrsid7560640 Canon 2}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13200957\charrsid7560640 A}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10494432\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1245732\charrsid7560640 requires}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10494432\charrsid7560640 that a judge}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid358504\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13388585\charrsid7560640 should }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10494432\charrsid7560640 conduct himself }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2973121\charrsid7560640 at all times in a manner }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid358504\charrsid7560640 that promotes public confidence in the integrity and}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10494432\charrsid7560640 impartiality of the judiciary.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1245732\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Judic. Cond. 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929806\charrsid7560640 A}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1245732\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2973121\charrsid7560640 As the sole means to regulate judicial conduct, the Commonwealth Code of Judicial Conduct }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2973121\charrsid7560640 should be construed and applied to further that objective}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393914\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929806\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929806\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Judic. Cond. 2A.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393914\charrsid7560640 SEP provides ample case authority from other jurisdicti}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16588217\charrsid7560640 ons to support }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393914\charrsid7560640 the proposition that }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12533411\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s violation of Canons 3(A)(4) and 3(A)(6) }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16588217\charrsid7560640 necessarily violate}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13398125\charrsid7560640 the general require}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 ments of Canons 1 and 2A.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 See Matter of Kellam}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 ,}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 503 A2d 1308}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16189466\charrsid7560640 , }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 1310}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16189466\charrsid7560640 (Maine, 1986)}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 ; }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 In the Matter of Benoit, Jr.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid682812\charrsid7560640 , 523 A.2d 1381}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4458955\charrsid7560640 , 1382 (Maine, 1987).}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid358504 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 17\tab }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8329986\charrsid7560640 It is difficult to precisely define what exact standard of conduct a judge should strive toward.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6255599\charrsid7560640 While the Code of Judicial Conduct provides a basic framework, i}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8329986\charrsid7560640 t is often easier to provide examples of what not to do}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6255599\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6255599\charrsid7560640 Certainly in this case, }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2455724\charrsid7560640 Lizama did not perform outrageous acts or give inflammatory speeches.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2455724\charrsid7560640 Nevertheless, the letters c}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5768155\charrsid7560640 riticizing the }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Presiding J}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2455724\charrsid7560640 udge and recusal judge show a }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13181748\charrsid7560640 disdain for the standards of}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5768155\charrsid7560640 conduct in the Code, and undermine}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13181748\charrsid7560640 public confidence in the judiciary.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9313711\charrsid7560640 Most }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid536419\charrsid7560640 significantly, Lizama admits to all the fact}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7624575\charrsid7560640 s behind his}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid536419\charrsid7560640 viol}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11106026\charrsid7560640 ation}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7624575\charrsid7560640 s}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11106026\charrsid7560640 of}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7624575\charrsid7560640 the two canons above, yet argues}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11106026\charrsid7560640 in his opposition to the motion for summary judgment, that there was no violation of Canons 1 and 2A}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805293\charrsid7560640 .}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805293\charrsid7560640 Courts have ex}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8082076\charrsid7560640 cused an honest error in judgment}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3805293\charrsid7560640 in regard to violations to these canons}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16136529\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14295032\charrsid7560640 Mississippi Com'n on Judicial Performance v. Martin}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5768155\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16136529\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14295032\charrsid7560640 921 So.2d 1258}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741760\charrsid7560640 , 1265}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid336174\charrsid7560640 (2005)}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2712122\charrsid7560640 (}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16741041\charrsid7560640 stating that }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2712122\charrsid7560640 there is no corollary that an honest error equates to a violation of the integrity and independence of the judiciary).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2712122\charrsid7560640 However in this case, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13445507\charrsid7560640 ex parte }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 attempts to inform the public about an impending case do }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1529155\charrsid7560640 not amount to a mere }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4851412\charrsid7560640 honest error in judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 As a judge of the Superior Co}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4799968\charrsid7560640 urt, Lizama is charged with compliance with the Code of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4799968\charrsid7560640 Judicial Conduct}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12138961\charrsid7560640 It is }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 fundamental to any novice}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 jurist as he }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8082076\charrsid7560640 or she }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 ascends }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8082076\charrsid7560640 to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 the bench, let alone a seasoned jurist}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1062278\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 like Lizama.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 To equate Lizama\rquote s }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 willful}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 disobedience of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 fundamental tenet}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13445507\charrsid7560640 s}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 of the judicial system with}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10047014\charrsid7560640 an}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8082076\charrsid7560640 honest error}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 would be disast}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8535656\charrsid7560640 rous to the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4669407\charrsid7560640 maintenance}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12271179\charrsid7560640 of judicial standards}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10047014\charrsid7560640 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393261\charrsid7560640 As a result, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 this Court finds }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393261\charrsid7560640 tha}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2989\charrsid7560640 t Lizama\rquote s actions also violate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393261\charrsid7560640 Canons 1 and 2(A).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14295032 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 18\tab }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2989\charrsid7560640 Rule 6(A}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 )(}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13256433\charrsid7560640 1}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 )}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13256433\charrsid7560640 of the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2378229\charrsid7560640 , now written into law,}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13256433\charrsid7560640 sets forth grounds for }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 discipline}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13256433\charrsid7560640 , specifically for }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 [w]illfu}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1508522\charrsid7560640 l }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 misconduct}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12079937\charrsid7560640 in office.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12079937\charrsid7560640 NMI R. Jud. Disc. 6(A}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8716386\charrsid7560640 )(1).}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16067986\charrsid7560640 The delivery of the}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1508522\charrsid7560640 letters }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12079937\charrsid7560640 satisfies the three elements of willful misconduct:}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 a judge }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 1)}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1666406\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 engage}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8651904\charrsid7560640 [}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 s}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8651904\charrsid7560640 ]}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 in conduct that is unjudicial}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1666406\charrsid7560640 and 2) committed in bad faith }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9857831\charrsid7560640 3) while }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid942154\charrsid7560640 acting in a judicial capacity}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6447687\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6447687\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6104436\charrsid7560640 Broadman}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10184826\charrsid7560640 v. Commission on Judicial Performance, }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10184826\charrsid7560640 18 Cal.4th 1079, 1091}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8651904\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11944533\charrsid7560640 (1998).}{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6104436\charrsid7560640 It is already established that Lizama\rquote s acts were u}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8651904\charrsid7560640 njudicial as they violated the C}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6104436\charrsid7560640 ode, and since the letters were on official letterhead, he was also acting in his judicial capacity.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8651904\charrsid7560640 The }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3613341\charrsid7560640 SEP correctly points to Lizama\rquote s }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3613341\charrsid7560640 bad faith}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3613341\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 in making these accusations}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8811893\charrsid7560640 as a judge}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 , }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1718626\charrsid7560640 which Lizama later admitted to basing}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13913559\charrsid7560640 on }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13913559\charrsid7560640 hearsay,}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 suspicion,}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 and }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3810765\charrsid7560640 surmise}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8811893\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1718626\charrsid7560640 SIR}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13913559\charrsid7560640 \'b6 28.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12739285\charrsid7560640 While it is undisputed that the relation}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8343815\charrsid7560640 ship between }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 Judge}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8343815\charrsid7560640 s Lizama and W}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12739285\charrsid7560640 iseman is less than cordial, Lizama owes the public the duty to perform his judicial activities free of animosity and }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 conflict.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 Lizama attempts to excuse the letters as an attempt to clarify the recu}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 sal process with the Presiding J}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 udge.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 However, in doing so, }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1665968\charrsid7560640 he failed to ensure that he followed}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 th}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12676065\charrsid7560640 e rules of judicial conduct.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12676065\charrsid7560640 Lizama }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3290897\charrsid7560640 cannot base his accusations on extrajudicial conversations }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 and potential bi}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2050527\charrsid7560640 ases stemming from other cases, specifically, }{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2050527\charrsid7560640 C}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 ommonwealth v}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2050527\charrsid7560640 . Demapan C}{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 astro}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12676065\charrsid7560640 , Civ. Action No. 04-0563}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8221650\charrsid7560640 .}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14568091\charrsid7560640 (}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12676065\charrsid7560640 r}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15495104\charrsid7560640 egarding which Lizama }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3702295\charrsid7560640 disclosed }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4288375\charrsid7560640 Judge }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15495104\charrsid7560640 Wiseman}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3702295\charrsid7560640 \rquote s statements supposedly indicating bias}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 , }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4288375\charrsid7560640 SIR }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3702295\charrsid7560640 Exhibit B \'b6 2}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2431537\charrsid7560640 )}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12678086\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2431537\charrsid7560640 It is not Lizama\rquote s}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4288375\charrsid7560640 role}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 to be a watchdog over cases not on his docket.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 All judges are subject to the rules of recusal, and }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4145137\charrsid7560640 the responsibility to avoid}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16732022\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2457369\charrsid7560640 any }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16479799\charrsid7560640 appearance of im}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4288375\charrsid7560640 proper bias rests}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4145137\charrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16646388\charrsid7560640 solely with}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 the j}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16543758\charrsid7560640 udge hearing each case}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4145137\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8848949\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Jud. Cond.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9070104\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16646388\charrsid7560640 3(C)(a}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12274137\charrsid7560640 )}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16479799\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16646388\charrsid7560640 All judges must}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7879623\charrsid7560640 be careful to maintain }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16646388\charrsid7560640 effective }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7879623\charrsid7560640 working relationships with our fellow jurists, for it is only in a climate of judicial harmony that we can properly }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14484462\charrsid7560640 administer}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7879623\charrsid7560640 justice.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8221650\charrsid7560640 Accordingly, this Court finds that }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5970266\charrsid7560640 Lizama\rquote s actions violated Rule 6}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8221650\charrsid7560640 (}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5970266\charrsid7560640 A}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8221650\charrsid7560640 )(}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5970266\charrsid7560640 1}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8221650\charrsid7560640 )}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5970266\charrsid7560640 of the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary procedur}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8343815\charrsid7560640 e.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14903161 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3893206\charrsid7560640 Proceeding in a Matter While Motion to Disqualify Pending: Canon 3(D)(c}{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12680058\charrsid7560640 )}{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6912113 \par }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 19\tab }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13456299\charrsid7560640 This Court will not address the am}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12085517\charrsid7560640 ended charge of Canon 3(D)(c}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9070104\charrsid7560640 ), }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9070104\charrsid7560640 P}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13456299\charrsid7560640 roceeding in a}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13456299\charrsid7560640 matter while motion to disqualify pending.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2955996\charrsid7560640 While the S EP followed proper procedures in filing the amendment, the lac}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12085517\charrsid7560640 k of investigation by the i}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12287509\charrsid7560640 nvestigative}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12085517\charrsid7560640 j}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2955996\charrsid7560640 udge prec}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3757989\charrsid7560640 ludes this Court}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2955996\charrsid7560640 from considering the charge.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2955996\charrsid7560640 The SEP\rquote s duty is to }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12287509\charrsid7560640 prosecute}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2955996\charrsid7560640 t}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12085517\charrsid7560640 he charges found by}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9520473\charrsid7560640 the investigative judge.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5911169\charrsid7560640 The i}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5965471\charrsid7560640 nvestigative }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16076611\charrsid7560640 j}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8281273\charrsid7560640 udge}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5965471\charrsid7560640 determines whether there is reasonable cause to submit charges for a formal hearing.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 Before reporting findings of fact to this }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9520473\charrsid7560640 Court, the investigative j}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3956497\charrsid7560640 udge must conclude that they have been}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 established by clear and convincing evidence. }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 In re McAllister}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 , 646 So.2d 173, 177 (Fla.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10837787\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 1994).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 This Court must then review the findings and }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16133554\charrsid7560640 determine whether they meet such a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 quantum of proof, which requires more proof than a }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 preponderance of the evidence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 but the less than }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 beyond and to the exclusion of a reasonable doubt.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 In re Davey}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 , 645 So.2d 398, 404 (Fla.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10837787\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 1994).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 If the findings meet this standard, then they are of persuasive force and are given great weight by this Court. }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 See In re LaMotte}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 , 341 So.2d 513, 516 (Fla.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16133554\charrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 1977).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16133554\charrsid7560640 The findings carry this weight}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13111486\charrsid7560640 because the investigative j}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15357886\charrsid7560640 udge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 is in a position to evaluate the testimony and evidence first-hand.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 See}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 In re Crowell,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 379 So.2d 107}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15419481\charrsid7560640 , 109}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 (Fla.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10837787\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12408425\charrsid7560640 1979).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5965471\charrsid7560640 Despite the amended charge}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11739514\charrsid7560640 \rquote }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5965471\charrsid7560640 s}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5012310\charrsid7560640 conformity with the proof already on record, }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320051\charrsid7560640 this Cou}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11739514\charrsid7560640 rt is hesitant to adjudicate }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1320051\charrsid7560640 matters not }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11739514\charrsid7560640 considered by the investigative j}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10815518\charrsid7560640 udge.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11739514\charrsid7560640 In accordance with}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8011864\charrsid7560640 our powers delineated in }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16460399\charrsid7560640 Rule 33}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15416297\charrsid7560640 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16460399\charrsid7560640 a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15416297\charrsid7560640 )}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16460399\charrsid7560640 of the Rules of Judicial Discipline, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 this Court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16460399\charrsid7560640 dismiss}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 es}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15416297\charrsid7560640 the 3(D}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16460399\charrsid7560640 )(c) complaint.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1049206 \par }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12326647\charrsid7560640 Sanctions}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7934734 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 20\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5859124\charrsid7560640 This }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13961823\charrsid7560640 Court finds as a matter of law that clear and convincing evidence exists to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9120042\charrsid7560640 charge Lizama with violation}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826748\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9120042\charrsid7560640 of the Rules of Judicial Conduct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5340215\charrsid7560640 Thus, summary disposition is proper, and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826748\charrsid7560640 this Court now }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10841949\charrsid7560640 orders formal sanctions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13917989\charrsid7560640 In judicial discipline actions, thi s Court is the trier of fact and alone possesses the power to impose sanctions. }{\cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13917989\charrsid7560640 Miss. Comm'n on Judicial Performance v. Carr}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13917989\charrsid7560640 , 786 So.2d 1055, 1058 (Miss.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14222023\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13917989\charrsid7560640 2001).}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 The guiding factor in assigning an appr}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14222023\charrsid7560640 opriate sanction is that it must fit the offense, which}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 is best measured by comparison with sanctions handed down in prior cases for the listed offense}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16193733\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14222023\charrsid7560640 As judicial sanctions are an issue of first impression in the Commonwealth, }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 this Court }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9515298\charrsid7560640 shall employ}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14222023\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 a six-part test}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7423137\charrsid7560640 adapted from other jurisdictions}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 to determine the appropriateness of a sanction}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7423137\charrsid7560640 .}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7423137\charrsid7560640 The test }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 balance}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7423137\charrsid7560640 s}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 the following factors: }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 (1) the length and character of the judge's public service; (2) whether there is any prior case law on point; (3) the magnitude of the offense and harm suffered; (4) whether t he misconduct is an isolated incident or evidences a pattern of conduct; (5) whether moral turpitude was involved; and (6) the presence or absence of mitigating or aggravating circumstances.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 " }{ \cs18\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 Miss. Comm'n on Judicial Performance v. Gibson}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 , 883 So.2d 1155, 1158 (Miss.}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16193733\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15404501\charrsid7560640 2004). }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211 \par }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 21\tab }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14057083\charrsid7560640 Lizama is a seasoned and accomplished jurist}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10096188\charrsid7560640 .}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10248534\charrsid7560640 Lizama \rquote s motives in disseminating the letters may have }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1854863\charrsid7560640 been proper, but his methods were}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10248534\charrsid7560640 not.}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12419069\charrsid7560640 In the process of maintaining the transparency of the }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12537577\charrsid7560640 judicial}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1854863\charrsid7560640 system, Lizama}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12419069\charrsid7560640 departed from th}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1854863\charrsid7560640 e requirements}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12419069\charrsid7560640 of the Judicial Code.}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 This Court will not }{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12419069\charrsid7560640 tolerate}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 such behavior}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12419069\charrsid7560640 , for if our own judges do not follow the rules, how can we expect the public to}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6036613\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9197202\charrsid7560640 do so}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6036613\charrsid7560640 ?}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12809774\charrsid7560640 Rule 34 of t}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 he Commonwealth Rules }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12809774\charrsid7560640 of Judicial Discipline lists}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 possible sanctions available to the Supreme Court}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12809774\charrsid7560640 : }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 (a) Suspension; (b) Imposition of limitations or conditions on the performance of judicial duties; (c) Public reprimand or censure; (d) Monetary fine; (e) Assessment of costs and expenses.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14043738\charrsid7560640 NMI C. Jud. Cond. 34.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 H}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5312632\charrsid7560640 owever, this is not }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12537577\charrsid7560640 a}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5312632\charrsid7560640 comprehensive}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 list of possible sanctions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7814291\charrsid7560640 Rather, the legislature}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 delegated to the judiciary the task of fashioning the remedies that will best serve the purpose}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 "}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 of the disqualification statute.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7814291\charrsid7560640 See }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 Liljeberg}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15867887\charrsid7560640 v. Health Servs. Acquisition Corp}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15867887\charrsid7560640 .}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 486 U.S. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15867887\charrsid7560640 847,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211\charrsid7560640 862}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15867887\charrsid7560640 (1988).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9964211 \par }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par 22\tab }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7746898\charrsid7560640 While }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 this Court }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1835999\charrsid7560640 cho}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 o}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1835999\charrsid7560640 se}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 s}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1835999\charrsid7560640 to }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5117036\charrsid7560640 sanction Lizama to maintain high}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1835999\charrsid7560640 standards of }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 judicial }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1835999\charrsid7560640 conduct}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid474359\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7746898\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 removal is not appropriate.}{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \cs20\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 See }{\cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 Kennick v. Commission }{\cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13645289\charrsid7560640 o}{ \cs19\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 n Judicial Performance,}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 }{\cs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 50 Cal.3d 297, 317 (1990).}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1467504\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13645289\charrsid7560640 (}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6695088\charrsid7560640 finding that}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12998682\charrsid7560640 ju}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6695088\charrsid7560640 dicial misbehavior}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12998682\charrsid7560640 , though deplorable and c}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6695088\charrsid7560640 learly calling for censure, fell}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12998682\charrsid7560640 significantly short of the showings of willful misconduct and prejudicial conduct on which }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6695088\charrsid7560640 removal orders were based).}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5772017\charrsid7560640 Taking into account the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 entire breadth of Lizama\rquote s }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12537577\charrsid7560640 judicial}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 career, the instant case at hand, along with the transcripts provided}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12537577\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 lead us to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 believe}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 that the mos}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4156065\charrsid7560640 t appropriate sanction}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15757120\charrsid7560640 s are}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 continuing }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 legal }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8152767\charrsid7560640 education}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15757120\charrsid7560640 and the assessment of costs and expenses}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4794382\charrsid7560640 Before resuming the practice of law,}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8787060\charrsid7560640 if he chooses to do so,}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5196002\charrsid7560640 Lizama must }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4794382\charrsid7560640 take the Multistate Professi}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5140642\charrsid7560640 onal}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5196002\charrsid7560640 Responsibility Examination and achieve a pas}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14241447\charrsid7560640 sing score in this jurisdiction, as well as reimburse the judiciary for the costs of this disciplinary action.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 This Court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 do}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7225322\charrsid7560640 es}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 n}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8787060\charrsid7560640 ot wish to minimize}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9464571\charrsid7560640 Lizama}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 's transgressions, but }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 do}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16728831\charrsid7560640 es not believe}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 that he is unfit to serve}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 on the bench}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11481165\charrsid7560640 or as a practicing attorney}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9725184\charrsid7560640 Now that this Court has informed}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 him of his e}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11627792\charrsid7560640 rrors}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 ,}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16728831\charrsid7560640 Lizama}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6362732\charrsid7560640 should be allowed to continue to serve }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10772520\charrsid7560640 the Commonwealth in whatever way he }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16728831\charrsid7560640 so }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10772520\charrsid7560640 chooses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14635259 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\cs20\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9270556\charrsid7560640 IV}{ \cs20\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14635259\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8787060\charrsid7560640 23}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2568987\charrsid7560640 For th}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14227946\charrsid7560640 e foregoing reasons, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16728831\charrsid7560640 this Court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14227946\charrsid7560640 approve}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16728831\charrsid7560640 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9725184\charrsid7560640 the findings of the investigative j}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14227946\charrsid7560640 udge an}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9725184\charrsid7560640 d the SEP}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514018\charrsid7560640 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514018\charrsid7560640 Summary disposition}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14295201\charrsid7560640 is appropriate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9966957\charrsid7560640 , as there are no genuine issues of material fact in dispute.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8787060\charrsid7560640 Accordingly, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2238729\charrsid7560640 Lizama is ordered to}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10096188\charrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2238729\charrsid7560640 take}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10096188\charrsid7560640 and successfully pass}{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2238729\charrsid7560640 the Multistate Professional Responsibilit}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2434501\charrsid7560640 y Examination }{ \cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8147434\charrsid7560640 and reimburse the judiciary for the cost of investigating and prosecuting this disciplinary action }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2434501\charrsid7560640 before he may resume}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2238729\charrsid7560640 the practice of law.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 }{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1932639\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605421\charrsid7560640 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1932639\charrsid7560640 SO ORDERED this }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7560640 --}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12063808\charrsid7560640 17}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2568987\charrsid7560640 th day of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1932639\charrsid7560640 DECEMBER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2568987\charrsid7560640 2008. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2568987\charrsid7560640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7560640 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2568987\charrsid7560640 Miguel S. Demapan \par Chief Justice}{\cs20\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14305540\charrsid7560640 \par }}