HARRISBURG (Oct. 2, 1997) -- All 12 candidates running for statewide judgeships have signed the Judicial Campaign Advertising Pledge, according to Vincent J. Grogan, president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

By signing the pledge, candidates agree to abide by the advertising guidelines which mirror Canon 7 of the Code of Judicial Conduct.

"We are extremely happy that the campaign season is off to a good start with everyone agreeing to keep the campaign fair and dignified," Grogan said. "Since judicial campaigns are unlike typical political campaigns, it is essential that everyone is aware of the unique rules governing judge elections."

Under the judicial campaign advertising guidelines, candidates must refrain from:

- discussing views on disputed legal or political issues;

- implying that a candidate's past representation of certain clients reflects his/her ability to be a judge;

- making promises other than to be a fair jurist and;

- implying that any candidate endorses or is antagonistic towards a particular group or special interest.

Grogan said that a respected and honorable judiciary is indispensable to the administration of justice.

"Candidates for our Commonwealth's highest courts should observe standards of conduct consistent with the integrity, impartiality and independence of the judiciary. By signing the pledge, our candidates have demonstrated their belief in those high standards," he said.

All complaints will be investigated by a 15-member board composed of lawyers and laypersons, chaired by former dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, W. Edward Sell.

If a violation occurs, the candidate is asked to correct the advertisement. If the correction is not made, a public announcement is made by the board and a candidate's favorable rating by the Pennsylvania Judicial Evaluation Commission may be withdrawn.

Complaints about judicial campaign advertising can be made by calling toll free, 800-932-0311 or in writing to: The Judicial Campaign Advertising Board, P.O. Box 186, Harrisburg, PA 17108. "If a candidate violates the code of the judiciary as well as the pledge, what does that say to voters about his or her ability to be fair and impartial on the bench?" asked Grogan.

On Nov. 4, voters will elect one justice to the state Supreme Court, four judges to the Superior Court and one to the Commonwealth Court.

Editor's Note: Please see attached list of candidates who signed the pledge.