Opinion ID: 1680174
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Misconduct While on the Bench

Text: The remaining counts relate to Judge Woodard's misconduct while he was a circuit court judge. This misconduct encompasses instances in which Judge Woodard frequently failed to timely begin scheduled first appearances, left an arraignment to conduct a radio campaign interview, and repeatedly exhibited rude, impatient, and disrespectful behavior toward attorneys, litigants, and witnesses appearing in proceedings before him. We have previously determined that a consistent failure to diligently perform the duties of judicial office is inconsistent with the high standards of conduct necessary to the preservation of the integrity of the judiciary. In re Golden, 645 So.2d 970, 972 (Fla.1994). In addition, the commentary to Canon 3B(8) explains that in carrying out the responsibilities of judicial office, a judge is required to devote adequate time to judicial duties, to be punctual in attending court and expeditious in determining matters under submission. Judge Woodard's failure to conduct proceedings in a timely manner is inconsistent with the requirements imposed on judges by the Code of Judicial Conduct. Further, Judge Woodard's repeated rudeness and impatience in dealing with attorneys, litigants, and witnesses appearing before him undermines the public's confidence in the integrity of the judiciary and constitutes conduct unbecoming a judicial officer. Cf. In re Schapiro, 845 So.2d 170, 173 (Fla. 2003) (concluding that judge violated the Code of Judicial Conduct by engaging in a general pattern of rude and intemperate behavior); In re Schwartz, 755 So.2d 110, 113 (Fla.2000) (concluding that judge violated the Code of Judicial Conduct by making rude, impatient, and discourteous remarks from the bench). Thus, we determine that the stipulated facts in these counts also demonstrate that Judge Woodard violated Canons 1, 2, and 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct.