Washington Code of Judicial Conduct – 2026
The Code of Judicial Conduct governs the conduct of judges in Washington, covering judicial independence and impartiality, disqualification, permitted extrajudicial activities, and political conduct.
Browse all 8 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.
Preamble
Scope
Application
Terminology
Canon 1
A Judge Shall Uphold and Promote the Independence, Integrity, and Impartiality of the Judiciary, and Shall Avoid Impropriety and the Appearance of Impropriety
Canon 2
A Judge Should Perform the Duties of Judicial Office Impartially, Competently, and Diligently
Canon 3
A Judge Shall Conduct the Judge's Personal and Extrajudicial Activities to Minimize the Risk of Conflict with the Obligations of Judicial Office
Canon 4
A Judge or Candidate for Judicial Office Shall not Engage in Political or Campaign Activity that is Inconsistent with the Independence, Integrity, or Impartiality of the Judiciary