HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania court that rules on cases of judicial misconduct told Supreme Court Justice Michael Eakin on Thursday he faces possible suspension over offensive e-mails he traded with lawyers and others.

The Court of Judicial Discipline issued an order that gives Eakin a chance to respond before it decides whether to remove him. A hearing was scheduled for Dec. 21 in Easton.

The order was issued two days after the Judicial Conduct Board, which investigates and prosecutes judges, charged Eakin with violating judicial and constitutional ethical rules.

Judge Jack Panella wrote that the hearing is needed because of allegations Eakin used government equipment to trade e-mails that “include sexually explicit, misogynist, racist or homophobic images. These e-mails are also said to include lewd references to judicial employees.” Eakin’s e-mails, Panella wrote, could result in “grave damage to the public’s confidence in and integrity of the Pennsylvania judiciary.”

His attorney, Bill Costopoulos, said Thursday the order is being reviewed.

The board’s complaint said Eakin’s actions appeared to be improper, he did not respect the court’s nondiscrimination policy and he detracted from the dignity of his office.