Legal/Judicial Experience

Current Chief Justice and Justice since 2008. Court of Appeals Judge, Eastern Washington (2007). Appellate Attorney & adjunct professor, Gonzaga University (1993-2007).

Other Professional Experience

Board for Judicial Administration Co-Chair, National Association of Women Judges, Judicial Independence Committee Co-Chair, Chief Justices Conference Executive Committee, National Courts & Sciences Institute Director, National Judicial College Instructor, WA Civic Learning Council, former Spokane Community College instructor.

Education

Gonzaga University, J.D., B.A. West Valley High, Spokane.

Community Service

Former school board chair, Upward Bound mentor, Minority & Justice Commission, YMCA Youth & Government, Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Past Rotary President, Washington Center for Performing Arts board member.

Statement

As Washington’s Chief Justice, I am dedicated to upholding the rule of law and delivering fair and impartial justice. Courts are a critical branch of government, where every person must be treated fairly and with dignity, and decisions must be based on the law and the facts.  In an era of growing attempts to politicize the judiciary, I work every day to maintain the integrity and independence of our courts and safeguard access to justice for every person.  

As a former constitutional law professor, I respect legal traditions and constitutional principles. As a parent and former school board chair, I understand how court decisions impact the lives of Washington families. As the first woman from Eastern Washington on the Court, I know that lived experience and diverse perspectives matter in making sound decisions.

I have a proven record of expanding access to justice, improving efficiency and transparency, addressing the evolving challenges facing our legal system, and protecting individual rights. I have always enjoyed broad support and am endorsed by my current and former colleagues, judges statewide, WA State Labor Council, elected officials, and education and community leaders. I ask for your vote to continue serving you on our Supreme Court.