The unanimous, three-judge panel ruling on Thursday also established email listservs and proceedings in Family Court as public forums with protections under the anti-SLAPP law. The decision concluded Sanson's posts were protected because he was conducting communications in good faith on matters of public concern. The SLAPP acronym refers to a "Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation."

The message from Nevada Court Watchers comes after Nevada's judicial candidate filing period ended on Jan. 17, and at a time when Nevada's system of electing rather than appointing judges has come under scrutiny. Critics say the need for candidates to raise financial support for their campaigns creates a potential opening for special interests to curry favor and hold sway over would-be judges.