The Commission normally meets once a month to review all new complaints that have been received as well as any other matters within its jurisdiction.  If the Commission determines that a matter falls within its jurisdiction, it may order an investigation.  If the investigation substantiates the complaint, the Commission can initiate a formal disciplinary action against a judge.

All of the Commission’s disciplinary proceedings and investigations are confidential.  Under certain circumstances, however, a decision or action by the Commission may be made public.

The Commission has the authority to remove a judge of the District of Columbia Courts for willful misconduct in office, for willful and persistent failure to perform judicial duties, and for conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice or which brings the judicial office into disrepute.

In addition, the Commission may, under appropriate circumstances, censure or reprimand a judge publicly or privately.

See Determinations on Investigations for public determinations issued by our office.