SECTION 8. Informal adjustment; sanctions  


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  • (1) With the agreement of the judge, the commission may by informal adjustment dispose of a complaint at any stage of the proceedings by:

    (a) informing or admonishing the judge that his conduct is or may be cause for discipline;

    (b) directing professional counseling and assistance for the judge;

    (c) imposing conditions on the judge's conduct; or

    (d) persuading a judge to retire voluntarily.

    (2) The commission may dismiss a sworn complaint, a statement of allegations or a formal statement of charges as unjustified or unfounded at any stage during the proceedings.

    (3) The commission may issue a private reprimand with the consent of the judge.

    (4) The commission may recommend to the supreme judicial court one or more of the following sanctions:

    (a) removal;

    (b) retirement;

    (c) imposition of discipline as an attorney;

    (d) imposition of limitations or conditions on the performance of judicial duties;

    (e) public or private reprimand or censure;

    (f) imposition of a fine;

    (g) assessment of costs and expenses;

    (h) imposition of any other sanction which is reasonable and lawful.