HOW ARE JUDGES DISCIPLINED?
Article V, section 12 of the Constitution creates a Judicial Qualifications Commission, which is charged with the duty to investigate allegations that conduct of a Florida judge or justice “demonstrates a present unfitness to hold office.” This 15-member Commission is composed of judges, attorneys, and lay persons-public citizens. Upon investigation and a hearing, the Commission may recommend punishment that can include a fine, a public reprimand administered in person by the Supreme Court, suspension from office, or removal from office. The Commission can also recommend the retirement of judges too ill to perform the duties of their offices. That recommendation goes to the Florida Supreme Court for final determination.
