Should judges engage in business dealings with litigants?

Judges should not engage in business dealings with litigants to maintain impartiality and uphold the integrity of the judicial system. When judges participate in financial relationships with individuals or entities that may appear before them, it gives rise to conflicts of interest and potential biases. Such relationships could lead to questions about a judge's ability to make fair and impartial decisions, which is crucial in maintaining public trust in the judicial process.

The principle of judicial impartiality is fundamental to the role of a judge. It ensures that all parties receive a fair hearing and that decisions are made based on the law and evidence rather than personal interests or relationships. Engaging in business dealings with litigants can compromise this integrity, as it may create a perception of favoritism or partiality, undermining the core values of justice.

In contrast, other options suggest scenarios where judges could engage in such dealings, either based on personal friendships or charitable causes. However, these situations do not align with the ethical standards that govern judicial conduct, as they could still lead to perceived or actual conflicts of interest. Thus, the appropriate approach is for judges to refrain from any business involvement with litigants.