The Judicial Conduct Board filed a formal complaint against Magisterial District Judge Allan Clifford Berkhimer alleging that he (1) routinely used improper and offensive language in his office in dealing with his staff and others, charging Respondent with misconduct in office, conduct which prejudices the proper administration of justice and conduct which brings the judicial office into disrepute, violations of Article V, §18(d)(1) of the Pennsylvania Constitution; and (2) had his employees send congratulatory notes known as “Quickie Notes” by mail to constituents who were mentioned in the local newspaper for some particular accomplishment or other, charging this was a violation of Rule 2A, Rule 4C and Rule 3B of the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of Magisterial District Judges. The Court concluded that Respondent’s conduct (1) brought the judicial office into disrepute and (2) violated Rule 4C of the Rules Governing the Standards of Conduct of Magisterial District Judges. The Court also held that Respondent’s use of his office and office employees for the preparation of the “Quickie Notes” was a violation of Rule 3B of the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of Magisterial District Judges and of the Supreme Court Order of June 29, 1987 promulgating its Guidelines Regarding Political Activities of Court-Appointed Employees. The Court held that Respondent was subject to discipline under Article V, Section 18(d)(1) of the Pennsylvania Constitution.

Following a sanction hearing, the Court removed the Respondent from his judicial office.