Rule 2.1 Promoting Confidence in the Judiciary

Judges are held to a high standard of behavior, both on and off the bench. This rule says a judge must act in ways that make the public trust the courts. People need to feel confident that judges are honest, fair, and independent, and a judge's actions should support that trust at all times.

The rule also sets clear limits on what judges cannot do. A judge cannot commit a crime. A judge cannot act in ways that raise doubts about their character, skills, temperament, or ability to do the job. And a judge cannot lie, cheat, trick people, or misrepresent facts.

For the average person, this rule means judges are expected to be role models for honesty and good judgment. If a judge breaks the law, acts dishonestly, or behaves in a way that damages public trust, they can face discipline. This protects everyone who depends on the court system to be fair and trustworthy.