Washington Courts: Press Release Detail

Judge John E. Bridges receives 2005 William Nevins Award

Judge John E. Bridges receives

2005 William Nevins Award

Chelan County Superior Court Judge John E. Bridges has received the 2005 William Nevins Award from the Washington Judges Foundation for his work on the court challenge to Washington’s gubernatorial election. Through his calm handling of a highly-charged dispute, Bridges enhanced the public’s understanding of and confidence in the state’s judiciary and court system, the Foundation awards committee said.

“Judge Bridges conducted the trial in a manner that rose above partisanship to focus on the important legal issues presented. He maintained and conveyed an attitude of absolute fairness and objectivity throughout, instilling confidence in the legal process,” the award proclamation reads. “Because of his actions, this dispute showcased our legal system and the judiciary at their very best in the most difficult of situations.”

The challenge to Washington’s historically close 2004 gubernatorial election, “Borders et. al. v. King County et. al.,” was filed in Chelan County Superior Court in January after a final vote count gave Christine Gregoire the governorship by 129 votes. The case ended with Bridges’ ruling on June 6, after months of pre-trial motions and a trial that began May 23. The ruling was not appealed.

“His opinion in reviewing the statewide election gave a greater understanding of the electoral process and the courts’ role in protecting the ballot,” said Clark County Superior Court Judge Robert Harris, president of the Washington Judges Foundation.

The Foundation was created in 1999 with the help of a $50,000 bequest from the estate of Lincoln County Superior Court Judge William Nevins. The Nevins Award is given annually to a person who contributes significantly to youth education or public understanding of the law and the role of the judiciary in American society.

“I sincerely appreciate the award, although I do feel uncomfortable receiving it because it is my perception that I am supposed to do the best I can all of the time,” said Judge Bridges. He credited Chelan Superior Court Administrator Siri Woods and her staff members for smoothly handling the large number of documents and large amount of media attention the case involved. “Also, the opposing attorneys and their staffs treated each other and the court with respect,” Bridges said. “They understood the timelines involved and worked together cooperatively and expeditiously. This made all the difference in the world.”

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            Washington Courts Media Contact

            Lorrie Thompson, Communications Officer

            (360) 705-5347, email Lorrie.Thompson@courts.wa.gov

Wendy K. Ferrell Judicial Communications Manager 360.705.5331 e-mail Wendy.Ferrell@courts.wa.gov

Lorrie Thompson Communications Officer 360.705.5347 Lorrie.Thompson@courts.wa.gov