Ethical Questions Raised About Judge's Dinner With Defense Lawyer

Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County--   Luzerne County Assistant District Attorney Mike Melnick made a motion to have Judge Joseph Sklarosky recuse himself from the theft trial for Wilkes-Barre Township Fire Chief John Yuknavich after learning that Sklarosky had dinner with Yuknavich's lawyer Barry Dyller. Legal experts say there is no law barring Judges from socializing with lawyers involved in any case. Dr. Dave Sosar a Political Science Professor at Kings College in Wilkes-Barre who also teaches ethics courses says while not illegal it does raise ethical questions. Sosar said, "I think many people here in Northeastern Pennsylvania are very sensitive to this kind of thing in light of the kids for cash scandal. Even the appearance of any conflict raises red flags whether it is legal or not." Sosar added, "It is a small area where everybody knows everybody and situations like this are not uncommon so people in power must be careful about there actions and image." People we spoke to on the street told us they had concerns. Lindsay Rowan from Kingston said, "I just think in light of all the things going on in Luzerne County Judges should no better than to put themselves into these situations." Mary Hurlbutt from Kingston said, "I don't want any lawyer to mix it up with Judges it just doesn't smell right!"