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 Michigan, the judiciary operates under the Michigan Code of Judicial Conduct, which sets forth the ethical standards and principles guiding judges in their professional and personal conduct. These standards emphasize the importance of independence, integrity, impartiality, and the avoidance of impropriety, or the appearance thereof. The Michigan Supreme Court has the authority to discipline judges for conduct that violates these principles, including misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform duties, habitual intemperance, or conduct that is clearly prejudicial to the administration of justice. The Judicial Tenure Commission is the body responsible for investigating complaints against judges and recommending disciplinary action to the Supreme Court. The Commission can recommend various forms of discipline, ranging from censure to removal from office. This system is designed to uphold the rule of law and maintain public confidence in the judiciary.