Judicial Review Council – Hartford, CT

Judicial Review Council

Judicial Conduct and Discipline

The Judicial Review Council (JRC) is an independent state agency located in Hartford, Connecticut, responsible for maintaining the integrity of the state’s judiciary. Housed at 505 Hudson Street, the Council investigates complaints alleging misconduct, disability, or substance abuse against state judges, family support magistrates, and workers’ compensation commissioners. This oversight body ensures that judicial officers adhere to the Code of Judicial Conduct and perform their duties impartially and diligently. The Council has the authority to admonish, censure, or suspend judges for periods up to one year, or recommend removal from office to the Supreme Court or Governor.

• Complaint Investigation: Reviews written complaints from the public regarding judicial conduct.
• Disciplinary Hearings: Conducts probable cause and public hearings to determine if violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct have occurred.
• Disability Review: Investigates cases where a judge may be unable to perform their duties due to permanent or temporary disability.
• Public Accountability: Promotes public confidence in the courts by ensuring high standards of ethical behavior on the bench.

Filing a Complaint

The JRC process is the primary avenue for citizens to voice concerns about judicial behavior, though it cannot review legal decisions or change court rulings (which is the role of the appellate courts). Complaint forms are available online or at the Council’s office. All initial investigations are confidential by statute unless and until the Council finds probable cause that misconduct has occurred. The office is accessible to the public during standard state business hours.