Under current government service rules, private employment is restricted except for roles of judicial clerk or adjudicative officer. Which statement about the private employment exception is correct?

• A. It does not apply to any private employment
• B. It applies only to judicial clerks
• C. It applies only to adjudicative officers
• D. It applies to both judicial clerks and adjudicative officers

Answer: (D)

Outside employment is generally limited for government workers to prevent conflicts of interest, but there is a specific allowance for certain positions. The exception covers both judicial clerks and adjudicative officers, recognizing that their duties are less likely to involve policy-making or decisions that could be influenced by private work. Because these two roles are seen as less susceptible to conflicts or improper influence, they qualify for the private employment exception, provided they meet any applicable restrictions (such as not handling matters before the court or agency or using official position for private gain). Therefore, the exception applies to both roles, making that option the best choice.