Washington Courts: News and Information

Washington Supreme Court Justice Susan Owens to Take Medical Leave in January 

Washington Supreme Court Justice Susan Owens announced she will take a medical leave during the month of January, 2024. She hopes to return to the bench for the Court’s oral arguments in February.

During Justice Owens’ absence, pro tem justices will be appointed to take her place from eligible judges of Washington’s Court of Appeals and superior courts. Pro tem justices are randomly selected by the Supreme Court Clerk’s office to hear cases when a justice must be absent.

“I appreciate the support of my colleagues in the Court and our pro tem justices during this time and I look forward to getting back to the bench as soon as possible,” Owens said.

The Supreme Court’s Winter term runs from January to April, with oral arguments beginning January 11, 2024. Oral arguments in all Supreme Court cases continue to be broadcast via TVW, Washington’s Public Affairs network. The Court currently conducts oral arguments in person at its temporary location in Tumwater while the Temple of Justice on the Capitol Campus is under renovation. Learn more about the justices, offices, operations and schedule of the Court at https://www.courts.wa.gov/appellate_trial_courts/.

CONTACT: Lorrie Thompson, Senior Communications Officer, Administrative Office of the Courts, Lorrie.Thompson@courts.wa.gov.