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 Missouri, the judiciary is governed by the Missouri Code of Judicial Conduct, which is established by the Supreme Court of Missouri. This code outlines the ethical standards and rules that judges must follow to ensure they maintain integrity, independence, and impartiality. The code is designed to foster public confidence in the judicial system and to prevent impropriety or the appearance of impropriety. Judges in Missouri are expected to interpret and apply the law impartially and to act in a manner that promotes public trust in the judiciary. When it comes to disciplinary actions, the Missouri Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline of Judges is responsible for investigating complaints against judges and recommending appropriate disciplinary measures to the Supreme Court of Missouri. This can range from censure to removal from office, depending on the severity of the misconduct. The system ensures that judges adhere to high ethical standards and are held accountable for their conduct in both their professional and personal lives.