gotchanewsdaily.com 
In a surprising turn of events, a New Jersey municipal court judge has agreed to vacate his position permanently after confessing to a slew of misconduct charges. These include inappropriate interactions with police officers and using profanity in frustration over computer issues.
Judge Lewis J. Korngut, who served part-time in the townships of Lawrence and North Hanover, was officially ousted on July 24. This decision followed a thorough investigation and an amended complaint that laid bare several unsettling actions by Korngut.
The complaint accused Korngut of engaging in inappropriate, behind-the-scenes conversations with police officers and a municipal prosecutor about court matters. While Korngut admitted to these interactions, he contended they didn’t involve substantive or pending cases.
Korngut also mishandled an accident report during a case conference that wasn’t shared with both the prosecutor and defense counsel. He asked about police consultation, even though it wasn’t required, and discussed the case with a police officer in front of legal representatives. This led to a motion for recusal, which Korngut denied, insisting the report was part of his court file and the officers involved were assault victims.
The judge faced additional allegations of socializing with Lawrence Township police officers both in and out of court. This included attending public events like “National Night Out,” sporting events, and even frequenting a local Hooters restaurant. Korngut admitted to attending some events but denied frequenting Hooters, claiming any such presence was incidental.
Moreover, Korngut reportedly gave a New York Giants football game ticket to a township officer who regularly appeared before him, raising further ethical concerns.
The judge was also accused of using profanity in earshot of court staff, particularly when frustrated with his computer. While he admitted to expressing his frustration crudely, he insisted these instances didn’t occur during judicial proceedings and were never directed at staff.
Despite these allegations, Korngut had no prior disciplinary actions against him in his judicial career or previous roles as a prosecutor and lawyer. He was even recognized with numerous awards, including Deputy Attorney General of the Year in 2005.
Korngut’s defense highlighted his reputation for patience, kindness, and respect towards litigants, court staff, and attorneys throughout his career. His lawyer, Robert M. Perry of Rosenberg Perry & Associates, stated that Korngut has no further comments at this time.
The legal community has had mixed reactions to Judge Korngut’s resignation. Some expressed disappointment, pointing to his previously unblemished record and numerous accolades, while others emphasized the critical need to uphold ethical standards in the judiciary.
Prominent legal publications like Law360 and Law.com have extensively covered Korngut’s removal. Public response has been divided, with some residents voicing concerns about judicial integrity and others defending Korngut’s overall contributions to the community.
Korngut’s departure has spurred a closer look at practices within municipal courts across New Jersey. There’s now a heightened focus on ensuring that judges adhere strictly to ethical guidelines to prevent similar instances of misconduct.
The New Jersey judicial system is likely to implement more stringent measures and training programs for judges to reinforce ethical behavior and maintain public trust. This case starkly highlights the vital role of ethics and integrity in the judiciary.
Korngut’s removal underscores the need for continuous oversight and accountability in the legal profession. As the legal community and the public reflect on this case, it becomes clear that maintaining high ethical standards is paramount for those entrusted with upholding the law.
