Washington Courts: Press Release Detail

State of the Judiciary 2016: Chief Justice Barbara A. Madsen releases report on progress and challenges of Washington courts

OLYMPIA, WA – In the past year, Washington’s judicial branch made strides in technology, guardianship, administrative records, tribal court relations, a new legal position aimed at improving access to the courts, and more.

Also in the past year, the judicial branch received new information on challenges in juvenile justice, civil legal aid, the impacts of legal financial obligations, and the reentry of former prisoners into society.

Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Barbara A. Madsen discusses the progress and challenges of the state judicial branch in her written 2016 State of the Judiciary report, released today.

“The people of Washington can be proud of their hard working, dedicated judges and court staff,” Madsen said. “Because of their tenacity and ‘can do’ spirit, Washington state courts lead the nation in providing timely and meaningful access to justice through innovative programs, court education and customer-focused practices.”

The 2016 State of the Judiciary is now available to read and download as an online digital magazine.

Justice Madsen was first elected to the state Supreme Court in 1992, becoming the third woman to serve on the state’s highest court. She was reelected in 1998, 2004 and 2010. In January, 2010, she was elected by her fellow justices as the 55th Chief Justice in state history.

Previous State of the Judiciary reports are archived online.