SECTION 24. Modifying Circumstances - Code of Judicial Conduct / Ethics

SECTION 24. Modifying Circumstances. - In determining the appropriate penalty to be imposed, the Court may, in its discretion, appreciate the following mitigating and aggravating circumstances:

Item	Description	Amount
(1)	Mitigating circumstances:
	(a)	First offense;
	(b)	Length of service of, at least, 10 years with no previous disciplinary case where respondent was meted an administrative penalty;
	(c)	Exemplary performance;
	(d)	Humanitarian considerations;
	(e)	Unconditional admission of guilt and public demonstration of remorse; and
	(f)	Other analogous circumstances.
(2)	Aggravating Circumstances:
	(a)	Finding of previous administrative liability where a penalty has been imposed, regardless of nature or gravity;
	(b)	Length of service facilitated the commission of the offense;
	(c)	Employment of fraudulent means to conceal the offense;
	(d)	Arrogance, belligerent attitude of the respondent, or lack of remorse; and
	(e)	Other analogous circumstances.