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King County Superior Court
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May 10, 2023
Mark Larrañaga to Be Sworn in as King County Superior Court Judge
King County Superior Court looks forward to welcoming its newest judge. Acting Presiding Judge Ketu Shah will swear in Mark Larrañaga at 8:45 a.m. on May 15 in the Presiding Courtroom (E-942) of the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle.
“Mark Larrañaga brings tremendous knowledge and experience to the King County Superior Court bench,” said Acting Presiding Judge Ketu Shah. “Our court, and the people of King County, will benefit greatly from his service.”
Larrañaga is a career criminal defense attorney, with roughly three decades of courtroom and trial experience. In 2005, he co-founded Walsh & Larrañaga, a Seattle-based law firm focused on criminal defense, civil rights, and personal injury work. From 2001 to 2004, Larrañaga was director of Washington state’s Death Penalty Assistance Center, where he trained and assisted attorneys handling capital punishment cases. He began his career as a public defender in 1993.
Larrañaga is also involved in his community. He has volunteered as a youth baseball coach, and regularly judges high school mock trial competitions. From 2005 to 2018, Larrañaga taught death penalty jurisprudence as an adjunct professor at Seattle University School of Law.
Larrañaga earned his bachelor’s degree at San Diego State University. He earned his law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law.
About the Court
The King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. It is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
February 23, 2023
Drug Court Graduation Returns to In-Person with DJ Marco Collins
King County Drug Diversion Court (KCDDC) will hold an in-person graduation celebration on March 8 in the Presiding Courtroom (E-942) of the King County Courthouse, 516 3rd Avenue, Seattle.
The Honorable Mary E. Roberts, Assistant Presiding Judge and Drug Court Judge, will preside over the event, which will be the first Drug Court graduation held in the courthouse since February 2020. KEXP DJ and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame radio personality Marco Collins will be the keynote speaker.
“Cheering for our drug court graduates over Zoom was necessary, but it wasn’t the same,” Judge Roberts said. “I am so grateful to welcome graduates back to the courthouse, and to share the joy and pride of their success.”
Marco Collins said he is honored to speak at the event.
“I have so much admiration for the strength and tenacity it takes to finish this program,” Collins said. “I know from experience how hard it is to fight substance abuse. It really is an everyday battle, so this accomplishment is huge. We will celebrate!”
Doors will open at 8:30 a.m., with the celebration beginning at 9 a.m. Media and members of the community are welcome to attend.
One of the first drug courts in the United States, KCDDC provides treatment, case management, and comprehensive resources to adults charged with felony property and other drug-related crimes. After choosing to participate in the program, participants come under the court's supervision and are required to attend treatment sessions, undergo random urinalysis drug tests, and appear before the KCDDC judge on a regular basis.
KCDDC is a minimum 10-month program and requires participants meet specific milestones to impart the tools and stability needed to prevent a return to substance use and criminal activity. If participants meet the requirements of each of the five phases of the program, they graduate, and their charges are dismissed. If participants fail to make progress, they are terminated from the program and sentenced on their original charge.
To date, 2,830 people have graduated from KCDDC, representing more than 3,584 dismissed felonies. KCDDC helps participants make lasting positive changes in their lives with 81% having no new felonies at 36-month follow-up, per Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) analysis. (That is not just graduates but all participants.) KCDDC, which is managed by the King County Department of Judicial Administration, has also been shown to decrease homelessness, reduce substance use, and increase employment for all program participants. The late King County Prosecutor Norm Maleng and then-King County Superior Court Judge Ricardo Martinez (currently a U.S. District Court judge) founded KCDDC in 1994.
January 13, 2023
Coreen Wilson to Be Sworn in as King County Superior Court Judge
The King County Superior Court is pleased to welcome its newest judge. Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Coreen Wilson on January 17, 2023.
“Coreen Wilson possesses the knowledge, experience, and commitment to justice required to be a judge,” said Presiding Judge Oishi. “Our court, and the people of King County, will be better because of her service.”
Appointed to the Superior Court by Gov. Inslee on December 16, 2022, Wilson replaces Judge Douglass North, who retired in 2022. She will take on a civil and criminal caseload at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent.
A civil trial lawyer with more than 20 years of courtroom experience, Wilson litigated the nation’s first binding civil jury trial via Zoom. As a partner at Wieck Wilson, PLLC, she maintained a civil litigation and trial practice focusing on torts, real estate, and commercial disputes.
In the community, Wilson sits on the City of North Bend Planning Commission as well as its Salary Commission. And from 2019 to 2022, she served on the City of North Bend Economic Development Commission, chairing the commission from 2021 to 2022. Since 2016, Wilson has volunteered with Snoqualmie Valley Shelter Services.
Wilson earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington. She obtained her law degree from Seattle University School of Law.
About the Court
The King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. It is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
January 5, 2023
New Year Marks Start of New Leadership for Superior Court
Each year, the Presiding Judge of the King County Superior Court appoints a chief judge for the following departments: Civil, Criminal, Clark Children and Family Justice Center, Unified Family Court, and the Maleng Regional Justice Center. This is done in consultation with the Executive Committee.
Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi has appointed the following chief judges for 2023:
- Judge Tanya L. Thorp, Chief Judge of the Civil Department
- Judge Ketu Shah, Chief Judge of the Criminal Department
- Judge Melinda Young, Chief Judge of the Clark Children and Family Justice Center
- Judge Sean P. O’Donnell, Chief Judge of Unified Family Court
- Judge Johanna Bender, Chief Judge of the Maleng Regional Justice Center
Each chief judge serves a term of twelve months, beginning January 1. The judge may be reappointed for successive one-year terms, in accordance with LCMR 5(a).
Presiding Judge Oishi is in the second year of his term as Presiding Judge. The Presiding Judge serves an initial term of two years. Thereafter, the Presiding Judge may run for re-election for successive one-year terms.
Assistant Presiding Judge Mary E. Roberts is serving her second term as Assistant Presiding Judge. Assistant Presiding Judges serve one-year terms. The Assistant Presiding Judge serves as Acting Presiding Judge during the absence or upon the request of the Presiding Judge.
The Presiding Judge and Assistant Presiding Judge are elected to their positions separately; each by a vote of all King County Superior Court judges, per Local General Rule 29. The term commences on January 1 of the year in which the Presiding Judge’s term begins.
About the Court
The King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. It is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
January 3, 2023
Wyman Yip to be Sworn in as King County Superior Court Judge
The King County Superior Court is pleased to welcome its newest judge. Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Wyman Yip on January 9, 2023.
“The people of King County will be well served by the breadth of experience Judge Yip brings to the Superior Court,” said Presiding Judge Oishi. “We are grateful for his knowledge, experience, and commitment to justice.”
Appointed to the Superior Court by Gov. Inslee on Dec. 1, 2022, Yip replaces Judge Mafé Rajul, who left the court at the end of 2022. He will take on a civil caseload at the King County Courthouse in Seattle.
Yip has worked for the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office since 1998. Most recently he has served as the office’s Criminal Division Assistant Chief Deputy. During this same period, he was co-chair of the office’s violent and economic crimes unit. He also worked in the Most Dangerous Offenders Project, investigating and trying homicide cases.
In the community, Yip has been involved in youth sports for more than 15 years. He’s been a coach for community youth basketball and baseball teams. He's also a member of the West Seattle Timebank, a community of local volunteers who exchange services, skills, talents, and time. Yip earned his bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University. He obtained his law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. It is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
November 23, 2022
Taki Flevaris to be Sworn in as King County Superior Court Judge
King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Taki Flevaris on Monday, Nov. 28.
“Being a judge requires knowledge, experience, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” said Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. “We are pleased to welcome Taki Flevaris to the Superior Court bench. Our court, and the people of King County, will be better because of his service.”
Flevaris was appointed by Gov. Inslee on Oct. 24. He will replace Judge Mike Diaz, who was recently appointed to the Washington State Court of Appeals.
Since 2013, Flevaris has worked as a litigator and counselor at Pacifica Law Group LLP, handling a wide range of matters with a focus on governmental, constitutional, policy, regulatory, and compliance issues. Before becoming a partner at Pacifica, he clerked at the Washington State Supreme Court for Justice Steven González. From 2010 to 2011, Flevaris was an associate attorney with K&L Gates LLP.
Flevaris is also active in the community. Since 2013, he’s served as a faculty affiliate with the Korematsu Center for Law and Equality at Seattle University School of Law, where he has worked on numerous constitutional and civil rights issues. He was also a board member and administrator with Your House Boxing & Community Club, from 2011 to 2016.
Flevaris earned his bachelor’s degree at Northwestern University. He obtained his law degree from Harvard Law School.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. It is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
August 12, 2022
Judge Joe Campagna, Ms. Jaime Hawk to be Sworn in to Superior Court
King County Superior Court looks forward to welcoming its newest judges. Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Judge Joe Campagna and Ms. Jaime Hawk on Wednesday, August 17.
“Being a judge requires knowledge, experience, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” said Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. “I am grateful that Judge Campagna and Ms. Hawk have dedicated themselves to serving the public. Our court, and the people of King County, will be better because of it.”
Gov. Inslee announced the appointment of Judge Campagna and Ms. Hawk on July 27. Judge Campagna will replace Judge Julia Garratt. Ms. Hawk will replace Judge Regina Cahan. Judge Garratt and Judge Cahan both retired on June 30, 2022.
Judge Campagna is currently a King County District Court Judge at the county’s Shoreline Division. He has held this position since January 2019. During his tenure, Judge Campagna developed the Shoreline Community Court and Resource Center, which provides therapeutic services to people involved in the criminal justice system. From 2007 to 2018, he worked as a litigator at Schroeter Goldmark & Bender, where he handled criminal defense and complex civil litigation matters.
Ms. Hawk has served as the Legal Strategy Director for Smart Justice at the ACLU of Washington since 2015, advancing criminal legal system reform. For several years before that, Ms. Hawk was a trial attorney with the Federal Defenders of Eastern Washington and Idaho, a criminal defense practice. She has also worked on civil rights class action litigation, was a federal law clerk, and served as a juvenile public defender. Ms. Hawk earlier taught juvenile law as an adjunct law professor.
Judge Campagna earned his bachelor’s degree from Houghton College and his law degree from Vermont Law School. Ms. Hawk earned both her bachelor’s and law degrees from Gonzaga University.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
June 17, 2022
Judge Jim Rogers Receives Outstanding Judge Award from KCBA
The King County Bar Association (KCBA) presented Judge Jim Rogers with its 2022 Outstanding Judge Award on June 7.
KCBA lauded Judge Rogers for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Judge Rogers served as Presiding Judge of Superior Court from 2019 through the end of 2021. During his tenure as Presiding Judge, King County Superior Court held hundreds of trials while courts across the nation remained closed.
“Judge Rogers did an incredible job of leading us through COVID and the most difficult and perilous years in the court’s history,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. “I know I speak for all of Superior Court when I say I am forever grateful for his steady hand and leadership.”
With Judge Rogers at the helm, King County Superior Court emerged as a national leader in adopting technology to maintain access to justice. Superior Court held more than 600 trials from July 2020 to March 2021, including over 100 jury trials, and thousands of hearings. Many trials were virtual, but some were held in person at Meydenbauer Center, in a “pop-up” courthouse created so civil trials could be held with physical distancing, enabling in-person criminal trials to be held with participants physically distanced for safety within existing courthouses.
“Judge Rogers recognized that whether it’s granting a protection order to a victim of domestic violence or affording the right to be heard to an individual accused of a crime, the services King County Superior Court provides are essential. His unwavering commitment to both access to justice and innovation played a crucial role in our success,” said King County Superior Court Chief Administrative Officer Linda K. Ridge.
Judge Rogers served as Assistant Presiding Judge from 2016-2018 and the Chief Criminal Judge during 2014-15. He has served as a Superior Court judge since 2005, when he was elected by the voters of King County.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
May 2, 2022
Matt Lapin to be Sworn in as King County Superior Court Judge
King County Superior Court looks forward to welcoming its newest judge. Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Matt Lapin on May 4.
“Being a judge requires knowledge, experience, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” said Presiding Judge Oishi. “The people of King County, will be well served by the breadth of experience Judge Lapin brings to this important role.”
As a judge pro tempore and commissioner, Judge Lapin has been working for the court since November 2021, handling matters related to the State v. Blake decision, and more recently, covering plea and antiharassment calendars.
Judge Lapin’s first assignment is at the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle, where he will preside over criminal and civil matters. He was appointed by Gov. Inslee on April 11, and replaces Judge Ruhl, who retired last month.
Before joining the bench, Judge Lapin practiced as a criminal defense attorney with the Law Office of Robert Flennaugh. From 2007 to 2009, Judge Lapin served as the director of business development at Lighthouse Document Technologies, a Seattle eDiscovery company. He began his legal career in 1995 as a senior deputy King County Prosecuting Attorney, where he worked until 2007.
In the community, Judge Lapin has volunteered with a food bank and social services non-profit. He has also taught trial advocacy at the University of Washington School of Law. He has daughter who is a freshman in college.
Judge Lapin earned his bachelor’s degree at Princeton University. He earned his law degree at the University of Miami Law School.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
March 11, 2022
New Judges to be Sworn in to King County Superior Court
King County Superior Court looks forward to welcoming two new judges. Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi will swear in Jason Holloway on March 14 and Haydee Vargas on March 21.
"Being a judge is an enormous responsibility that requires courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice," said Presiding Judge Oishi. "On behalf of King County Superior Court, I thank Jason Holloway and Haydee Vargas for taking on this important role. The administration of justice, and the people of King County, will be better off for their service."
Judge Holloway will replace Judge Catherine Moore, who retired Feb. 25. Judge Vargas will replace Judge Dean Lum, who retired in January.
Both were appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee on Feb. 18.
Judge Jason Holloway
Holloway has been a family law practitioner since 2004. In 2018, he became a King County Superior Court pro tem family law commissioner. In 2021, he joined the court as a full-time Superior Court Commissioner presiding over family law and domestic violence motions daily.
Holloway earned his bachelor’s degree from Bard College and his law degree from Willamette University. He is a past president and board member of QLaw, the LGBTQ Bar Association of Washington (2011-2016), and he served on the board of managers of the University Family YMCA of Seattle (2013-2014).
Judge Holloway’s first assignment will be Unified Family Court at the King County Courthouse in Seattle.
Judge Haydee Vargas
Vargas was managing attorney of the Associated Counsel for the Accused Division of the King County Department of Public Defense, a position she held since March 2020.
In this role she managed approximately 110 employees and led recruitment and hiring within the agency. She served as a public defender since joining the King County Department of Public Defense in 2004.
Vargas earned both her bachelor’s and law degrees from Seattle University. She participates in Community Visions in Burien focusing on the needs of diverse communities in south King County. She is also a frequent volunteer at a local school, serving as a mentor for law students and new attorneys, and volunteering with the Latina(o) Bar Association's Legal Clinic.
Judge Vargas’ first assignment will be at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent, where she will preside over civil and criminal trials.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are: Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
February 8, 2022
King County Superior Court to Resume In-Person Jury Trials on February 14, 2022
On January 12, King County Superior Court entered Emergency Order 35, which suspended new in-person jury trials in response to the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The number of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in King County has fallen dramatically over the past month. Emergency Order 35 expires on February 11, and King County Superior Court will resume in-person jury trials on February 14.
“COVID-19 has forced us to carefully balance public health and legal rights and principles,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. “But access to justice and the Constitutional right each person has to a trial by a jury is of paramount importance. Together with public health experts, we’ve created health and safety protocols that fulfill this right while protecting the health and safety of court personnel, parties, counsel, judicial officers, and jurors.”
There continues to be a significant backlog of criminal cases in King County Superior Court, including many older cases with serious charges. As the work to reduce this backlog continues, King County Superior Court’s COVID-19 safety protocols remain in place. They include a mask requirement, social distancing, remote jury selection, enhanced ventilation in all court locations, and proper communication with jurors about their health and the court’s protocols.
King County Superior Court leadership will continue to consult with public health experts to monitor and analyze key public health indicators.
“COVID-19 has created a myriad of challenges for our court,” said Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi, “but King County Superior Court is prepared to meet these challenges, and we will provide access to justice while minimizing the health risks of COVID-19.”
December 15, 2021
New Year Marks the Start of New Leadership for King County Superior Court
On January 1, 2022 Judge Patrick Oishi will become Presiding Judge of King County Superior Court, and Judge Mary Roberts will become Assistant Presiding Judge.
Judge Oishi comes to the position of Presiding Judge after serving as Assistant Presiding Judge in 2021. He has also served Chief Judge of the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent, Lead Dependency Judge, Assistant Chief Criminal Judge, and Chief Criminal Judge.
Judge Oishi was first appointed to the King County Superior Court bench in 2011 by Governor Chris Gregoire. Prior to law school, Judge Oishi was a junior high school teacher and coach in the Federal Way School District. Judge Oishi earned his bachelor's degree in education as well as his law degree from Seattle University. He serves as the Co-Chair of the King County Bar Association Diversity Committee.
“I am honored to lead King County Superior Court judicial officers and staff, whose dedication and hard work safeguarded access to justice during the most trying time in our history,” said Judge Oishi. “As we address the backlog of criminal trials resulting from the pandemic, I look forward to improving our business practices and adopting new ones, so that we remain open to all, with justice for all.”
Judge Roberts takes on the role of Assistant Presiding Judge after having served on the court in nearly every department since her appointment in 2003 by Governor Gary Locke. Her background before taking the bench was in labor and employment law, during which time she chaired both the Washington Employment Lawyers Association and the King County Bar Association Labor and Employment Law Section. Judge Roberts received her BS in Mathematics from the University of Puget Sound, and her JD from the University of Washington.
"I look forward to serving along with Judge Oishi at a time when great change and innovation has been brought to the court,” Judge Roberts said.
The Presiding Judge leads the management and administration of the court’s business, recommends policies and procedures that improve the courts effectiveness, allocates financial resources in a way that resolves disputes fairly and expeditiously, and serves as the spokesperson for the court, as described in Local Court Management Rule 3.
The Assistant Presiding Judge serves as Acting Presiding Judge during the absence or upon the request of the Presiding Judge.
The Presiding Judge and Assistant Presiding Judge are elected to their positions separately; each by a vote of all King County Superior Court judges, per Local General Rule 29. The Presiding Judge serves an initial term of two years. Thereafter, the Presiding Judge may run for re-election for successive one-year terms. The term commences on January 1 of the year in which the Presiding Judge’s term begins.
The Assistant Presiding Judge serves a one-year term, commencing on January 1. A candidate for Assistant Presiding Judge who wishes to serve in the last year of the term of the Presiding Judge shall indicate an intention to seek the position of Presiding Judge for the following term.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court has been recognized as a national leader in adopting technology to continue operations during the pandemic, and was among the first courts in the nation to resume jury trials by holding them in a socially-distanced format.
October 4, 2021
King County Superior Court to Require COVID-19 Vaccinations for Employees
The highly-contagious Delta variant of COVID-19 is spreading fast in King County. Vaccination provides the best protection against COVID-19 transmission and greatly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
King County Superior Court is requiring all Superior Court employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, effective December 6, 2021.
“Superior Court employees provide an essential service to the public. By getting vaccinated, our employees protect each other, and the public we serve,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jim Rogers.
To meet this requirement, employees must receive their second shot of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or the first shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, and provide verified proof of full vaccination to Superior Court Human Resources by December 6, 2021. This policy applies to all King County Superior Court employees, regardless of whether they work on-site or remotely, unless the individual qualifies for an exemption. The policy does not apply to jurors.
“By protecting the health and safety of all who come to and work in our courthouses, this policy enables us to fulfill our mission of staying open to all, and providing justice for all,” said King County Superior Court Assistant Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. “It is necessary to protect everyone who seeks justice in our courthouses, and our entire community.”
Acceptable proof of full vaccination may include CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card or photo of vaccine card; documentation from a health care provider or electronic health record; or state immunization information system record. Personal attestation is not an acceptable form of verification of COVID-19 vaccination.
The Court may provide an exemption to employees who have a documented medical reason that prevents them from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The Court may provide an exemption to employees with sincerely held religious beliefs, observances, or practices that conflict with receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
The Court looks forward to working with our labor partners to implement this critical vaccine policy.
King County Superior Court has remained open and operating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, but as with other essential services, has taken emergency measures to protect public safety while also maintaining access to justice. The Court has been recognized as a national leader in adopting technology to continue operations during the pandemic, and was among the first courts in the nation to resume jury trials by holding them in a socially-distanced format.
The state’s largest trial court, King County Superior Court is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
August 13, 2021
King County Superior Court Commends JustCARE, City of Seattle, and King County for Addressing Public Safety Concerns and Providing Shelter and Services to People Living in City Hall Park
King County Superior Court today expressed its gratitude and relief that the City of Seattle and King County have acted together in response to the Court’s urgent calls to provide alternate housing to people sheltering in City Hall Park.
“This is a significant step toward improving safety for all, maintaining essential access to our justice system, and ensuring the Court is able to fulfill our constitutional mandates,” said Acting Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi.
King County Superior Court leadership has for years raised concerns that violence occurring near the courthouse is harmful and dangerous for people living in the area, courthouse users and courthouse employees, and inhibits access to justice. This has resulted in an extraordinary access to justice crisis. The King County Courthouse is the seat of county government and where all members of our community come to peacefully resolve disputes.
“Improving the situation at City Hall Park is one piece of making this area safer. We remain very aware that conditions at Prefontaine Place, Third Avenue and the Courthouse vicinity can be unsafe and are hopeful that the City and County continue their efforts. But today, we wish to thank and recognize the efforts and leadership of the Seattle Mayor’s Office, King County Executive’s Office, King County Council and many other leaders in city and county government who collaborated in this significant work.”
Judge Oishi praised the outreach workers, social workers, and city and county employees involved in what may be the most significant effort to provide shelter and service to people living outside in Seattle’s recent history.
“We want all people in our community to be safe. We are grateful that JustCare, the City of Seattle, and King County were able to work together to respond to the needs of people living at City Hall Park.”
More than 70 people who had been living in City Hall Park have moved into shelters as the result of a collaboration between JustCARE and the City of Seattle’s HOPE team.
July 30, 2021
Meaningful Access to Courts Preserved by Council's Approval of COVID 8 Budget
Funding ensures civil, family law cases will get heard as criminal case backlog is addressed
King County Superior Court expresses its gratitude to the King County Council for approving the 8th COVID Supplemental Budget, which awards $10,896,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to King County Superior Court, and $3,643,000 to Department of Judicial Administration, also known as the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.
The Court is especially grateful for the leadership of the Budget and Fiscal Management Chair and co-chair, Jeanne Kohl-Welles and Rod Dembowski; the Chair of the Council, Claudia Balducci, and the support of Councilmembers Reagan Dunn, Kathy Lambert, Pete von Reichbauer, Joe McDermott, and Dave Upthegrove.
“Everyone has a right to seek justice in our courts,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jim Rogers. “By approving this COVID 8 budget, the King County Council has made that right meaningful for all people in King County. Their actions enable King County Superior Court to hire the temporary judges, commissioners, bailiffs, courtroom and interpreter staff needed to address the criminal case backlog that has accrued over the course of the pandemic, which ensures individuals with civil and family law cases can also have their day in court.”
“By approving this budget, the King County Council has strengthened access to justice, and we are most grateful for it,” said King County Superior Court Chief Administrative Officer Linda Ridge. “This support allows King County Superior Court to deliver on our mission; open to all, trusted by all, justice for all.”
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court has been recognized as a national leader in adopting technology to continue operations during the pandemic, and was among the first courts in the nation to resume jury trials by holding them in a socially-distanced format.
July 2, 2021
Linda Ridge Appointed Chief Administrative Officer
King County Superior Court’s Executive Committee has appointed Linda K. Ridge Chief Administrative Officer of the King County Superior Court. CAO is the highest non-judicial officer role in the King County Superior Court.
“Ms. Ridge’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to innovation have enabled our Court to stay open and accessible in some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable,” said Presiding Judge Jim Rogers. “I am grateful that our Court, and the people of King County, will continue to benefit from her leadership.”
Ms. Ridge was appointed as Acting CAO on January 1, 2021, upon the retirement of former CAO Paul L. Sherfey in December, 2020. From 2005 to 2020, Ms. Ridge served as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, and prior to that served in several different roles within the Court, including Court Operations Manager, Court Operations Director, and Director of the Maleng Regional Justice Center. Some of Ms. Ridge’s specific areas of focus during her tenure with the court include access to justice, strategic planning, and workforce development.
Ms. Ridge has also been involved in several capital design and construction projects since joining the court in 1992.
“I am honored to be named as CAO during a transformational time in the Court’s history, and am deeply committed to supporting the judicial officers and staff of this outstanding court moving forward,” she said.
From 1989-1992, Ms. Ridge held the position of Staff Associate with the Institute for Court Management of the National Center for State Courts, where she worked on several national projects including Managing Trials Effectively, State Legislative-Judicial Partnership, Tribal and State Court Relations, and Integration of Child and Family Cases. She also served as Managing Editor for the Justice System Journal.
Ms. Ridge holds a B.A. from Washington State University, graduating summa cum laude, and received her M.A. from the University of Denver.
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 54 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
June 16, 2021
Judge Craighead Announces Her Retirement
Judge Susan J. Craighead is retiring from King County Superior Court, effective June 30.
Appointed to the King County Superior Court in 2007 by Governor Christine Gregoire, Judge Craighead served as Presiding Judge during the completion of the Clark Children Family and Justice Center (CCFCJ) and was a leader in efforts to eliminate racial disparities in the juvenile system.
“Judge Craighead was a good friend to many and a leader on our Court,” King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jim Rogers said. “She tirelessly worked her cases, spent many hours on the creation of the CCFCJ, and presided over trials despite incredible health challenges. I often told her that she was the toughest person that I have ever met.”
Judge Craighead served as a commissioner for the Washington state Court of Appeals for five years before her appointment to Superior Court. Prior to that, she was a staff attorney for the Seattle-King County Public Defender Association.
Judge Craighead also served as the law clerk for the late Justice Shirley Abrahamson at the Supreme Court of Wisconsin, worked as a reporter for the Louisville Courier Journal, and worked for the Federal Defenders of San Diego and the Alabama Capital Representation Resource Center.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 53 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are: Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
May 20, 2021
King County Superior Court Judge Julie Spector to Retire
Long-serving judge lauded for “prescient” contributions to the Court’s pandemic response
Judge Julie Spector is retiring from King County Superior Court at end of June after more than 21 years in the position.
An expert in the intersections of law and public health, Judge Spector helped guide Superior Court through the global coronavirus pandemic from its onset in King County in 2020.
“King County Superior Court was among the first courts in the nation forced to respond to what is now known as COVID-19. The knowledge, experience, and training possessed by Judge Spector greatly enhanced our ability to respond swiftly and appropriately, protecting public health while maintaining access to justice,” said King County Presiding Judge Jim Rogers. “On behalf of all of Superior Court judicial officers and staff, I thank Judge Spector for her leadership during this critical period, and throughout her time on the bench.”
Dr. Jeff Duchin, Public Health Officer for Seattle-King County, said Judge Spector was “quite prescient” in her work to educate and prepare the judiciary for the complex and specialized challenges associated with managing cases in the context of a global infectious disease pandemic.
For years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Judge Spector studied and prepared for court responses to other, more routinely occurring communicable diseases that require isolation and/or quarantine, such as tuberculosis and H1N1, as well as other public health orders, Dr. Duchin said.
“It was a great pleasure to have worked with her on many issues, including the Bench Book, over the years,” Dr. Duchin said.
One of the longest-serving judges on the King County Superior Court bench, Judge Spector is a former public defender and deputy prosecutor. She was appointed to Superior Court by Gov. Gary Locke in 1999, and subsequently elected and re-elected by the voters of King County.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 53 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are: Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
For more information about judges and judicial assignments in King County Superior Court, please see the Court’s directory.
January 22, 2021
New Judges Sworn in to King County Superior Court
King County Superior Court has welcomed two new judges to the bench.
Judge Hillary Madsen was sworn in by Presiding Judge Jim Rogers on January 11. Judge Andrea “Andy” Robertson was sworn in by Judge Karen Donohue on December 31, 2020.
“Being a judge is an enormous responsibility that requires courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” Judge Rogers said. “On behalf of King County Superior Court, I thank Judge Madsen and Judge Robertson for undertaking this important role. The administration of justice, and the people of King County, will be better off for their service.”
Judge Madsen
Elected by King County voters in November 2020, Judge Madsen fills the position formerly held by Judge Theresa Doyle, who retired.
Judge Madsen brings to the bench broad legal experience that includes civil litigation, family law, and juvenile matters. She most recently worked at the Law Offices of Sorich, PLLC. She is the daughter of state Supreme Court Justice Barbara Madsen.
Judge Madsen’s first assignment is to Unified Family Court at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent.
Judge Robertson
Judge Robertson was appointed by Governor Jay Inslee, and fills the seat left open by the resignation of Judge Roger Rogoff in November 2020.
A criminal defense attorney for more than 20 years, Judge Robertson served as a public defender, and later worked in private practice, combining civil and criminal trial work with the representation of individuals seeking protection orders for domestic violence and harassment. She most recently worked at her own practice, Robertson Law, PLLC.
Judge Robertson’s first assignment is to the Dependency department the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent.
About the Court
King County Superior Court handles civil matters, domestic matters, felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. The state’s largest trial court, it is comprised of 53 judges, each elected to 4-year terms by the voters of King County, or, in the event of a vacancy, appointed by the Governor.
King County Superior Court Judges are assigned to departments of the Court; these assignments rotate annually. The court’s departments are: Criminal, Civil, Dependency, Drug Court, Juvenile, Unified Family Court, Ex Parte & Probate, and Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) Court.
For more information about judges and judicial assignments in King County Superior Court, please see the Court’s directory.
December 1, 2020
Chief Administrative Officer Paul L. Sherfey to Retire
King County Superior Court’s First Chief Administrative Officer Lauded for Skill, Commitment to Public Service
King County Superior Court announced the retirement of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Paul L. Sherfey today. CAO is the highest non-judicial officer role in King County Superior Court, and Mr. Sherfey has performed it since its creation by Superior Court judges more than 20 years ago.
“Paul Sherfey has been an incredible asset to King County Superior Court, and more broadly, to the people of King County,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jim Rogers. “His skillful leadership and calm demeanor have steadied Superior Court through countless challenges and achievements. On behalf of King County Superior Court, I thank him for his service, and wish him the best in his retirement.”
A graduate of Gonzaga University and the University of Washington School of Law, Mr. Sherfey first joined King County in the 1980s, when he became Deputy Director of the Superior Court Clerk’s Office, working with then-Clerk Jan Michaels. After Ms. Michaels left to become executive director of the Washington State Bar Association, Mr. Sherfey succeeded her as King County Clerk in 1998. In 2000, the judges of King County Superior Court created the position of Chief Administrative Officer, and selected Mr. Sherfey to fill it.
In his career, Mr. Sherfey oversaw the creation of the King County Drug Court, which provides treatment and services to clients, reduces recidivism and the use of incarceration, and saves taxpayer dollars. He also led the development of the Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center, an award-winning multi-use facility that opened in 2020, filling resource gaps in the juvenile system and replacing an outdated and dilapidated building. And, at the onset of the coronavirus emergency, Mr. Sherfey steered the rapid and unprecedented technology adoption that has enabled King County Superior Court to lead the nation in continuing the provision of essential justice services amid the pandemic.
Mr. Sherfey’s last day is Dec. 31. Deputy Administrative Officer Linda K. Ridge will become interim Chief Administrative Officer.
Ms. Ridge has served as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer since 2005, and prior to that served in several different roles within the court, including Court Operations Manager, Court Operations Director, and Director of the Maleng Regional Justice Center. Ms. Ridge has also been involved in a number of capital design and construction projects since joining the court in 1992.
November 20, 2020
King County Superior Court Halts In-Person Jury Trials in response to COVID-19
King County Superior Court is suspending all in-person jury trials, effective today. Superior Court leadership will regularly review rates of COVID-19 and determine whether to extend the suspension. This process is expected to continue through January 11, 2021. King County Superior Court is continuing to hold trials in civil, family law, involuntary treatment and dependency, all without juries, through video technology. In addition, King County Superior Court is now holding virtual civil jury trials, where the jurors, witnesses and parties all remain at office or home and appear on video.
In a statement, King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Jim Rogers said:
“The well-being of our jurors, litigants, and staff is our utmost concern. We are grateful for their service, and the trust they place in us. Suspending jury trials is necessary to protect their health and safety, and that of our entire community. With guidance from public health experts from the University of Washington, we will continuously monitor rates of COVID-19 and adapt our Public Health Plan accordingly. The Constitution guarantees the right to a speedy trial.
We are proud King County Superior Court has led the nation in restarting jury and bench trials in the Third Quarter of 2020, holding more jury and bench trials than any other court of its size. However, we must respond safely and flexibly as the infections are rising.”
Today’s suspension is the second time King County Superior Court has halted jury trials in response to the pandemic. In early March, King County Superior Court halted all jury trials to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, in response to a Supreme Court Order.
In July, King County Superior Court opened a “pop-up” courthouse in Bellevue’s Meydenbauer Center as part of its COVID-19 response. This additional courtroom space enabled the required physical distancing at KCSC’s downtown Seattle courthouse and the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent. It allowed jury trials to resume under a comprehensive COVID-19 safety protocol that includes enhanced air filtration, cleaning and sanitization, required masks and social distancing, and remote jury selection.
King County Superior Court also adopted technology that allows matters to be conducted remotely, via phone and video. As a result of this rapid and widespread technology adoption, King County Superior Court is well-prepared to continue providing essential justice services amid COVID-19 restrictions.
“We are far better able to respond to the pandemic now than we were ten months ago because of the all the work we have done and all we have learned,” Judge Rogers said.
Washington courts have remained open and operating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, but as with other essential services, the judicial branch has taken emergency measures to protect public safety while also maintaining public access to key justice services.
In a November 20 letter to the state’s Superior Court judges, Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Stephens said, “Consistent with existing Supreme Court orders and the court-specific public health guidance developed by the state Department of Health, every court needs to take a hard look at their local COVID-19 numbers, and modify practices as needed to reduce exposure risks and increase compliance with important health and safety practices in all court facilities.”
July 16, 2020
With a New Bellevue Location and Safeguards in Place, King County Superior Court Prepares to Resume Jury Trials
King County Superior Court has dramatically remade the administration of jury trials in response to the health risks presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Every stage of the trial process, from how jurors are selected for a trial to where they perform their deliberations, has been reviewed. The result is an operation that looks vastly different than the one familiar to people prior to the pandemic.
“Coronavirus changed everything, including how courts must operate,” said King County Superior Court Presiding Judge James E. (Jim) Rogers. “What hasn’t changed is the Constitutional right each person has to a trial by a jury of their peers. Together with public health experts, we’ve created a protocol that fulfills this right while protecting the health and safety of everyone in our community.”
Among the key changes:
- Meydenbauer Center to become temporary courthouse; free parking for all jurors To facilitate the necessary social distancing, some jury trials will be conducted at Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue. Jurors will receive free parking during their service, regardless of their assigned location.
- No more large groups Jurors will no longer report to Court locations in large jury group assemblies. Additionally, both in-person orientation and group questioning have been eliminated. Instead, prior to reporting for service, jurors will be contacted by the assigned trial judge to complete an online orientation and any case-specific questionnaires. Most jurors will participate in jury selection via a video platform such as Zoom, and some will come in person. Once a jury is selected, they will report in person for trial.
- Social distancing and facial coverings required and enforced Courtrooms have been reconfigured for social distancing. Facial coverings are required. The Court will provide facial coverings to those without them. Trials will be on staggered schedules to minimize building occupancy. Signage will direct safe use of stairways and elevators.
- Ventilation system remediations The University of Washington environmental health experts inspected the ventilation systems for each courthouse. Consistent with their written findings and where recommended, facilities management made updates and remediations to the ventilation systems in the trial spaces.
- Plexiglas barriers, similar to those found in supermarkets, have been installed at upper and lower benches in courtrooms.
- Enhanced health screenings and exemptions for jury service Anyone who is unable to serve because of a health condition, as documented by a letter from a medical provider, will be excused from service. All remaining prospective jurors will undergo a health screening in advance of reporting.
Thousands of people await the justice only juries can provide
To prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, King County Superior Court halted all jury trials in early March. Since then, thousands of cases have languished. There are now over 800 criminal and countless civil cases awaiting trial. These numbers represent thousands of individuals who have yet to have their day in court.
“Jury service, like voting, is an opportunity for people to decide what justice looks like in their community,” said Judge Rogers. “We are grateful to all who show up to do this important work, and we’ve never been more committed to their safety and well-being.”
As an essential function or business, King County Superior Court is exempted from Governor Inslee’s phased approach to re-opening. With these new safeguards in place, and after careful consultation with public health authorities, the Court is set to resume jury trials this month.