Washington Courts: Press Release Detail

Justice G. Helen Whitener Takes Medical Leave

Washington Supreme Court Justice G. Helen Whitener announced today she will be on medical leave starting March 9, 2023. Justice Whitener is scheduled to have reconstructive back surgery to address her degenerative back condition, a condition she has suffered with since her teenage years. 

“I have been lucky to have accomplished as much as I have while avoiding major reconstructive back surgery. At Madigan Army Hospital, I will have one of the best surgical teams in the nation. It is time. I thank my colleagues for their continued support and I look forward to returning in a few months better than ever,” said Justice Whitener. 

Justice Whitener will finish the present term of oral arguments missing only the March 14, 2023 oral argument day and starting immediately will appear for oral arguments via Zoom.

During the absence or recusal of a justice, the Supreme Court Clerk’s office randomly selects current and eligible retired court of appeals judges or willing current superior court judges to act as pro tems to hear oral argument and decide cases.  The Court will be using a pro tem judge on the cases scheduled for that day.

The Supreme Court conducts oral arguments at its temporarily relocated location in Tumwater while the Temple of Justice is under renovation. Oral arguments continue to be broadcast via TVW, Washington’s Public Affairs network.