Texas Disciplinary Rules for Judges and Judicial Candidates – 2026
The Disciplinary Rules for Judges and Judicial Candidates, eighteen rules governing proceedings before the State Commission on Judicial Conduct: complaints, informal and formal proceedings, review by a special court of review and a review tribunal, appeal to the Supreme Court, suspension on a felony or official-misconduct charge, confidentiality, notice, subpoenas, and ex parte contacts. Formerly the Procedural Rules for the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
Browse all 18 rules of the 2026 edition below. Each rule includes the full text, a plain-English summary, committee notes, amendment history, and cross-references to related rules. Use the search box to find rules by keyword or number.
Rule 1
Governing Laws
Rule 2
Definitions
Rule 3
Filing a Complaint
Rule 4
Informal Proceedings Before the Commission
Rule 5
Formal Proceedings Before the Commission
Rule 6
Review by Special Court of Review
Rule 7
Review of Suspension Recommendation
Rule 8
Review of Recommendation for the Removal or Retirement of a Judge or Prohibition of Future Judicial Service
Rule 9
Appeal of Review Tribunal Decision to Supreme Court
Rule 10
Felonies and Official-Misconduct Misdemeanors
Rule 11
Attorney Representation
Rule 12
Confidentiality and Privilege of Proceedings
Rule 13
Notice
Rule 14
Subpoenas
Rule 15
Decisions by Commission, Special Court of Review, Review Tribunal, and Supreme Court
Rule 16
Ex Parte Contacts
Rule 17
Notification of Law Enforcement Investigation
Rule 18
Commission Administrative Duties