The American legal system is based on the principle that an independent, fair, and competent judiciary (judges) will interpret and apply the laws that govern us. The role of the judiciary is central to American concepts of justice and the rule of law.

Each state, and the federal court system, has a code of judicial conduct that requires judges to respect and honor the judicial office and strive to enhance and maintain confidence in our legal system by maintaining integrity and independence, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. The judge determines or finds facts and laws for the resolution of disputes, and is a highly visible symbol of government under the rule of law. A code of judicial conduct is not intended as an exhaustive guide for the conduct of judges—they should also be governed in their judicial and personal conduct by general ethical standards. But such a code is intended to state basic standards that should govern the conduct of all judges, and to provide guidance to judges in establishing and maintaining high standards of judicial and personal conduct.

Each state and the federal court system has people and processes who handle complaints against judges and determine what if any disciplinary action is appropriate.

In Alabama, the judiciary is expected to uphold the principles of independence, fairness, and competence, reflecting the broader American legal system's values. Judges in Alabama are bound by the Alabama Canons of Judicial Ethics, which set forth the standards for judicial conduct. These canons emphasize the importance of integrity, independence, and the avoidance of impropriety or its appearance. They serve as a guide for judges to maintain public confidence in the legal system and to act as symbols of a government committed to the rule of law. While the Canons provide a framework for judicial behavior, judges are also expected to adhere to general ethical standards in both their professional and personal lives. In terms of accountability, Alabama has established procedures for addressing complaints against judges. The Judicial Inquiry Commission of Alabama is responsible for investigating allegations of judicial misconduct, and the Court of the Judiciary has the authority to impose disciplinary actions if a judge is found to have violated the Canons of Judicial Ethics or engaged in misconduct.