California Code of Judicial Ethics

Abstract

The Code of Judicial Ethics (Code) establishes standards for ethicalconduct of judges on and off the bench and for candidates for judicial office. The 13Code consists of broad declarations called Canons, with subparts, and a 14Terminology section. Following each Canon is a Commentary section prepared by 15the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics. The Commentary, by 16explanation and example, provides guidance as to the purpose and meaning of the 17Canons. The Commentary does not constitute additional rules and should not be so 18construed. All members of the judiciary must comply with the Code. Compliance is 19required to preserve the integrity of the bench and to ensure the confidence of the 20public. 21