Opinion ID: 1104462
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: the trial court committed reversible error by making ex parte contacts with the district attorney and attorney general concerning procedural matters raised by the appellant and by refusing to make a record of appellant's objections to the ex parte contacts

Text: Prior to trial, appellant's attorney informed the trial judge that the case had been removed to federal court under the provisions of 28 U.S.C. 1443. The trial judge contacted various State and Federal officials. According to appellant's brief the purpose was to ascertain whether the case should proceed to trial at that time or be continued pending the action of the Federal Court.  Based on the record in this case, the action of the trial judge was proper. When informed that the case had been removed to federal court, the judge checked to see if removal had actually occurred. When he determined that no removal had occurred prior to the trial beginning, he had been assured that his court retained jurisdiction and he could proceed with the trial.