Legal Definitions - Code of Judicial Conduct

The Code of Judicial Conduct is a set of rules that govern the professional behavior and ethics of judges. It was created by the American Bar Association and adopted in 1972. The code is used to ensure that judges act in a fair and impartial manner when making decisions.

For example, the code requires judges to avoid conflicts of interest and to recuse themselves from cases where they have a personal or financial interest. It also requires judges to treat all parties in a case with respect and to make decisions based on the law and the facts presented, rather than personal biases or opinions.

Each state has its own code of judicial conduct, which is based on the ABA model code. The state's highest court is responsible for drafting and enacting the code. The code is important because it helps to maintain public trust in the judicial system and ensures that judges are held to a high standard of professionalism and ethics.