publications_unodc_commentary-e

should not give legal advice. This does not prevent a judge from expressing a view,purely as a member of the body in question, on a matter which may have legalimplications; but it should be made clear that such views must not be treated as legaladvice. Any legal advice required by the body should be professionally sought. If itappears that an issue of concern is or might become controversial, it wouldordinarily be prudent for the judge to express no opinion on contested matters. Suchopinions are bound to be circulated to the possible embarrassment of the judge andthe court concerned.Acting in a fiduciary capacity171. Depending on the circumstances, a judge may act as executor,administrator, trustee, guardian or other fiduciary of the estate, trust or person of afamily member or close friend if such service does not interfere with the properperformance of judicial duties, provided the judge does so without remuneration.While acting as a fiduciary a judge is subject to the same restrictions on financialactivities that apply to the judge in a personal capacity.113