On Friday, April 25, 2025, the Minnesota Board of Judicial Standards publicly reprimanded retired Fourth Judicial District Judge Jay Quam for engaging in sexual harassment. The board’s investigation revealed that Quam had inappropriate sexual contact with his former law clerk both during and after her employment.
The investigation reported multiple instances of Quam and the law clerk being seen together in non-professional situations. Notably, an attorney witnessed them “canoodling” outside the courthouse. Additionally, court staff members overheard sexual activity emanating from Quam’s chambers on three occasions when the two were present.
Quam’s behavior extended beyond his relationship with the law clerk. He was found to have made inappropriate comments regarding the clothing of other clerks, often in a flirtatious manner, and he stood uncomfortably close to them, contributing to an uncomfortable work environment. These actions constituted violations of Policy 304, which addresses sexual harassment as defined by the Judicial Council.
The board highlighted that Quam acknowledged his misconduct, stating that judicial officers wield significant authority over clerks and court staff, making it challenging for them to report such behaviors. The board emphasized that Quam’s ongoing relationship with the law clerk was an abuse of his power and damaged the integrity of the judiciary.
Despite this reprimand, the board noted that Quam had maintained a good reputation throughout his career and had no prior disciplinary record. Given the severity of his actions, the board determined that a public reprimand was necessary. It also indicated that had Quam not been retired, more severe disciplinary measures might have been pursued.
As part of the reprimand, Quam has agreed not to issue any public statements that would justify or contradict the findings of the reprimand.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
