A: A trial judge must maintain complete neutrality during a trial and never suggest to a jury his or her feeling about the testimony, the credibility of a witness or the guilt or innocence of a party, or in a civil case who is liable and who is not. A good judge must maintain a “poker face” during the trial and not express his or her pleasure or displeasure unless there is misconduct by the attorney or witness in the open court.

Canon 2 of the Code of Judicial Conduct requires a judge to conduct himself or herself in a manner that promotes confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. Under Canon 3(a), a judge must be patient, dignified and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses and lawyers. The judge, under Canon 3, must accord all persons full right to be heard according to the law.

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