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 Indiana, the judiciary is governed by the Indiana Code of Judicial Conduct, which sets forth the ethical standards and rules for judges to maintain the integrity, impartiality, and independence of the judiciary. These rules are designed to ensure that judges act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the judiciary, are impartial in their duties, and are free from impropriety or the appearance of impropriety. The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications is responsible for investigating allegations of judicial misconduct and enforcing the Code of Judicial Conduct. When a complaint is filed, the Commission reviews the allegations and can recommend various disciplinary actions if a judge is found to have violated the code, ranging from admonishment to removal from office. This system upholds the principle that an independent and competent judiciary is essential to justice and the rule of law in the state.