Rule 16. Dispositions in General

(a) Dismissal. The commission may dismiss a complaint that fails to allege an act of judicial misconduct, that lacks sufficient evidence to support an investigation, that is solely appellate in nature, or that is otherwise frivolous, unfounded or outside its jurisdiction. (b) Dismissal with comments. The commission may dismiss a complaint with confidential comments, including, but not limited to, an advisory letter reminding a judge of ethical obligations or recommending changes in behavior or procedures, or a warning letter alerting a judge to the potential consequences of conduct that creates an appearance of impropriety. (c) Consultation. The commission, or the executive director and/or disciplinary counsel at the commission's direction, may confer confidentially with a judge at any time to discuss disciplinary alternatives including voluntary retirement or resignation. If a judge agrees to retire or resign while a complaint is pending, the commission may dismiss the complaint or take other appropriate action consistent with these rules. The commission may also encourage a judge to participate in professional counseling, judicial education, mentoring or other similar activities. (d) Discipline by contracting authority. The commission may recommend to the chief justice, a chief judge, or a presiding judge of any court that a judicial officer hired under contract be disciplined directly by the contracting authority.