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Ex parte communications means any communication "on behalf of or involving one party
to a legal matter" that is "conducted in the absence of or without notice to the other party"
- this includes letters, emails, verbal communication, google and web searches, inappropriate
assistance to one party (in Re krems, 774 N.E. 2d 878 (Ind. 2002)).
Exemptions to ex parte communication is written advice of a disinterested expert,
consultations with Court staff, other judges, and officials whose function is to aid the Judge in
adjudicative responsibilities.
- settlement conferences, when authorized by law
Exceptions to ex parte communication is may include for scheduling, admin, or
emergency purposes
- it does not address substantive matters
- no party gains procedural substantice, tactical adv., and the judge notifies all other parties of the
substance of the communication and gives them opportunity to respond.
Cannon 3: Minimize risk A judge shall conduct the judges personal and extrajudicial
activities to minimize the risk of conflict with obligations of the judicial office