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 Massachusetts, the judiciary operates under a framework that upholds the principles of an independent, fair, and competent legal system. Judges in the state are expected to interpret and apply laws with integrity, maintaining the rule of law and ensuring justice. The Massachusetts Code of Judicial Conduct provides guidelines for judges to avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety, ensuring they act with independence and integrity both in their official capacity and personal conduct. This code is not exhaustive but serves as a foundation for the ethical standards judges must adhere to. When it comes to disciplinary matters, the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct is responsible for investigating complaints against judges and recommending appropriate disciplinary actions if necessary. This system is designed to maintain public confidence in the legal system and ensure that judges conduct themselves in a manner that honors their role as symbols of government under the rule of law.