Complaints of Unethical Conduct by a Judge

The Judicial Qualifications Commission receives, investigates, and evaluates allegations of judicial misconduct.

Although the Judicial Qualifications Commission reviews complaints about judges, it is an independent entity, separate from the Iowa Judicial Branch. The commission is composed of four persons appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate, and a district court judge and two lawyers appointed by the chief justice of the Iowa Supreme Court. Commission members serve staggered six-year terms.

Please Note:  The commission reviews only questions of ethical conduct. It does not have authority to review the merits of a judicial decision. If the substance of your complaint is about the merits or outcome of your case or a particular ruling, you should talk with your attorney about the proper course of action, including whether or not to file an appeal.

The commission dismisses unfounded complaints. Its investigations become public if and when the commission files an application with the supreme court recommending disciplinary action. The supreme court can retire a judge for a permanent physical or mental disability that substantially interferes with the performance of the judge's duties, or discipline or remove a judge for good cause.

The supreme court has authority to discipline or remove a judge for: persistent failure to perform the judge's duties; intemperance; willful misconduct in office; conduct which brings the judicial office into disrepute; or violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct.

A complaint alleging unethical conduct by a judge must be in writing and should state the specific facts of alleged misconduct or disability. 

Complete the form available below and mail it to:

Executive Secretary
Judicial Qualifications Commission
Iowa Judicial Branch Building
1111 East Court Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50319

(515) 281-5241