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 California, the judiciary operates under a framework that upholds the principles of an independent, fair, and competent legal system. Judges are expected to interpret and apply laws with integrity, maintaining the public's confidence in the legal system. The California Code of Judicial Ethics provides guidelines for judges to follow, ensuring they act with impartiality and avoid any appearance of impropriety. This code is not exhaustive but serves as a foundation for judicial conduct, complemented by broader ethical standards. The California Commission on Judicial Performance is the independent state agency responsible for investigating complaints about judicial officers and determining appropriate disciplinary actions. This system is designed to preserve the rule of law and the honor of the judicial office, ensuring that judges not only adhere to high standards of conduct in their professional duties but also in their personal behavior.