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 Ohio, the judiciary operates under a framework that upholds the principles of an independent, fair, and competent legal system. Judges in Ohio are expected to interpret and apply laws with integrity, maintaining the public's confidence in the legal system. The Ohio Code of Judicial Conduct outlines the ethical obligations and standards for judges, emphasizing the importance of independence, integrity, and the avoidance of impropriety. This code serves as a guide for judges to ensure they uphold the dignity of the judicial office and adhere to ethical standards in both their professional and personal lives. Additionally, Ohio has mechanisms in place to address complaints against judges. The Ohio Board of Professional Conduct investigates allegations of judicial misconduct and recommends disciplinary actions to the Supreme Court of Ohio when necessary. These measures ensure that judges are held accountable for their conduct and that the judiciary remains a respected symbol of government under the rule of law.