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 North Dakota, the judiciary operates under a framework that emphasizes independence, fairness, and competence, in line with the American legal system's principles. The North Dakota Code of Judicial Conduct outlines the ethical obligations and standards for judges, ensuring they uphold the integrity and independence of the judicial office, avoid impropriety, and maintain public confidence in the legal system. Judges in North Dakota are responsible for interpreting and applying laws, finding facts, and resolving disputes, serving as symbols of the rule of law and government accountability. While the Code of Judicial Conduct provides specific guidelines for judges' behavior, it is complemented by broader ethical standards that judges are expected to adhere to in both their professional and personal lives. To address misconduct, North Dakota has established mechanisms for filing complaints against judges. The North Dakota Judicial Conduct Commission is responsible for investigating these complaints and recommending appropriate disciplinary actions when necessary, ensuring accountability within the judiciary.