SCJC Compact with Texans

The mission of the State Commission on Judicial Conduct is to preserve the integrity of all judges in the state, to ensure public confidence in the judiciary, and to encourage judges to maintain high standards of both professional and personal conduct. In that mission, the Commission serves both the public and the judiciary of Texas.

The Commission exercises jurisdiction over more than 3,600 judges and judicial officers in Texas, including appellate judges, district judges, county-level judges, justices of the peace, municipal judges, masters, magistrates, and retired and former judges who are available for assignment as visiting judges. The Texas Constitution empowers the Commission to investigate and take appropriate action in cases of judicial misconduct or incapacity, including discipline, education, censure, suspension, or recommendation for removal from office.

Enforcement of Standards of Judicial Ethics and Conduct

Agency Service: The Commission investigates allegations and reports of judicial misconduct or incapacity.

Agency Service Standard: The Commission exercises thoroughness and diligence in all review, investigation, or litigation of cases filed and makes findings in accordance with specific constitutional provisions, statutes and canons.

Agency Response Times: Correspondence that alleges judicial misconduct or incapacity is acknowledged promptly upon receipt. Disposition of an average case is less than five months. For cases that enter litigation, the Commission complies with all deadlines set by statute, the Texas Constitution, and the Supreme Court Procedural Rules for the Removal or Retirement of Judges.

Information for the Public and the Judiciary About Judicial Ethics

Agency Service: Although the Commission is prohibited from providing legal advice, the agency is a resource to both the public and the judiciary about judicial ethics. Commission staff also serve as speakers on judicial ethics at conferences and meetings.

Agency Service Standard: The Commission is committed to providing timely, accurate information.

Agency Response Times: Staff is directed to provide a prompt response to each request or inquiry received by e-mail, mail, fax, or telephone.

Customer Service Complaints and Suggestions

Agency Customer Service Representative: Complaints or suggestions concerning customer services may be submitted in writing by mail or fax to:

Bob Warneke, Jr., General Counsel
State Commission on Judicial Conduct
P.O. Box 12265
Austin, Texas 78711-2265
Toll Free: (877) 228-5750 • Fax: (512) 463-0511