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 Idaho, the judiciary operates under the principle that an independent, fair, and competent judiciary is essential for interpreting and applying laws, ensuring justice, and upholding the rule of law. Judges in Idaho are expected to adhere to the Idaho Code of Judicial Conduct, which sets forth the ethical standards and guidelines for judicial behavior. This code mandates that judges maintain integrity, independence, and avoid any appearance of impropriety to preserve public confidence in the legal system. While the code provides a framework for judicial conduct, judges are also expected to follow general ethical standards in both their professional and personal lives. The Idaho Judicial Council is responsible for handling complaints against judges and determining appropriate disciplinary actions. This council ensures that judges are accountable for their conduct and can take measures ranging from censure to removal from office, depending on the severity of the misconduct.