A Message from Our President
As I take up the mantel leading this great organization, I ask how best can this organization serve its members. What tools can this organization provide its members for their work?
Our work is justice. This work is not easy. We find ourselves at a point in time when the integrity of the judicial system is being questioned at every level. I was once told that justice is truth in action. What truths do we know of our courts? Everyone is treated fairly. Everyone has equal access to the courts. Systematic racism does not exist.
Alas, these are not truths but only worthy aspirations. The truth is, not everyone is treated fairly. Money often equates to access. Systematic racism does exist. There are still many amongst us that feel that the only successful rehabilitation is incarceration.
Our courts have taken great strides in curing these ills. Our acknowledgement of systematic racism is the first step towards elimination. Therapeutic Courts are highly successful in reducing recidivism. Reducing legal financial obligations for the financially challenged benefits us all.
I am so proud of this organization for the gains made thus far. However, momentum unnourished will wither and die. We have taken great strides in addressing these inequities; however, that doesn't relieve us of the responsibility and the obligation to strive for true justice. Every problem has a solution we just haven't found it yet. Even when you find a solution it may be years before it can be fully implemented.
No system of justice is perfect, but our system allows us to examine itself and continue to improve and implement measures to achieve true justice, which is equal justice for all.
As president I will do everything in my power to give each and every member of this organization access to the tools necessary to address systemic racism, discrimination to disadvantaged populations, and any other barrier to true justice that exists within our court system.
Judge Karl Williams
Pierce County District Court
DMCJA President 2024-2025