Public statements by judges and the bias rule

The rule against bias requires that judges approach their task with an open
mind though not an empty one. The bias rule does not preclude judges
from presiding simply because they have knowledge, experience or views
relevant to a case. The question is always one of degree and context. This
article examines how questions of bias may arise when judges make public
statements outside their reasons for decisions, such as in media interviews,
speeches or scholarly publications. It will argue that judges can and should
make public statements but that the judicial function necessarily limits
what judges can and should say in their public statements.