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 Maryland, the judiciary operates under the principle that judges must be independent, fair, and competent to uphold the laws and ensure justice. The Maryland Code of Judicial Conduct provides guidelines for judges to maintain integrity, independence, and avoid the appearance of impropriety. This code is not exhaustive but sets basic standards for judicial behavior, complementing general ethical norms. Judges in Maryland are expected to interpret and apply laws impartially, serving as symbols of a government that adheres to the rule of law. The state also has mechanisms in place to address complaints against judges. The Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities is responsible for investigating allegations of judicial misconduct and determining appropriate disciplinary actions. This ensures that judges are held accountable for their conduct and that public confidence in the legal system is maintained.