Washington Courts: Press Release Detail

Creation of 'Project 2001' BJA Subcommittee

As its' most recent action, the BJA voted unanimously on January 21st to form a new subcommittee to improve court operations.

Chairing the "Project 2001" subcommittee will be former Washington State Bar President Paul Steere and Thomas A. Swayze Jr. a former President of the Superior Court Judges' Association and former Speaker of the Washington State House of Representatives.

"In a statewide survey last year, we learned that the public feels the courts are too confusing, cost too much and take too long to reach a decision," said Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Richard P. Guy.

"Through this subcommittee, we hope to work with the Legislature to implement real reforms, increasing the availability of adequately funded public courts to all people, regardless of income, for civil as well as criminal matters."

"It's a step that all court levels agreed is important to explore the resource and operational problems facing the judiciary," said Spokane County Superior Court Judge James M. Murphy.

Washington State District and Municipal Court Judges' Association (DMCJA) president-elect Michael P. Roewe said, "The DMCJA supports the Board in the formation of this group, which will study critical issues such as court jurisdiction in our state."

Citizen members, business leaders, and members of the Washington State Legislature will be invited to join the subcommittee. They will meet for the first time on February 11, and are anticipated to conduct town hall meetings with the public.

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