Municipal Court Judge bei City of Bothell, WA

About the Department

ATTENTION: Applications are being accepted online through Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. 

Application period: The position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning Monday, September 22, 2025.

The Position

The City of Bothell, Washington, is initiating a regular four-year selection process for the position of Municipal Court Judge, as the current term concludes on December 31, 2025. This process—open to all qualified candidates—provides an important opportunity for Court stakeholders, community members, and City leadership to reflect on the future of the Court. The Municipal Court is an independent branch of the City government and a vital part of our community’s justice system. The Judge presides over a broad range of legal proceedings, ensuring fair, impartial, and effective administration of justice. The City seeks to uphold the highest standards of judicial excellence, maintain public trust, and preserve the integrity of the Court. 

The Municipal Court Judge oversees and adjudicates a diverse docket of cases, including criminal misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, infractions, and civil protection orders, in accordance with Washington State law. The Judge directs and controls Court proceedings, including presiding over and adjudicating bench and jury trials, pretrial, arraignments, post-conviction reviews, bail hearings, sentencing mitigation, and contested infraction hearings. This position extends beyond the daily courtroom functions, requiring a leader who is also an effective administrator and community representative. The Judge is responsible for leading the management of the Court’s business, providing an annual report on the Court's activities to the City Manager and City Council, and convening meetings with Court officers to ensure efficient operations. 

The Municipal Court Judge is excited by the opportunity to set the standards for judicial conduct and decision-making in the Bothell Municipal Court. With an inclusive and approachable style, the Judge develops positive relationships, establishes a high level of trust, and actively collaborates with others to achieve the Court’s objectives. Grounded in reality and guided by kindness, the Municipal Court Judge maintains control of the courtroom with patience, decisiveness, and an unwavering commitment to fairness. They combine judicial knowledge, people skills, and effective communication to run the Court efficiently, ensuring proceedings are timely, well-prepared, and accessible to all. 

The Municipal Court Judge believes in a fair and effective justice system. The Judge is actively invested in the success of the City, the Court, and the community. The successful candidate has a passion for developing positive community relations along with the ability to build strong, yet independent working relationships with a wide variety of legal, nonprofit, and social service partners. The Judge is an effective communicator and active listener who values honesty and integrity and believes in cultivating objectivity and independence to ensure against any perception of bias. 

A minimum of a Juris Doctorate (JD) degree with five years of broad legal background with an emphasis on criminal law is required.Preferably five years of experience in the public sector within criminal courts of limited jurisdiction as a Judge or a Prosecuting and/or Defense Attorney. Knowledge of Washington Court rules, a strong understanding of legal precedents, and an ability to apply these principles with tact and impartiality are ideal. A proven record of leadership in a professional setting is essential. The ability to work all hours as needed, up to 34 hours per week, is necessary. 

Residency in King or Snohomish County is required. A license in good standing to practice law in the State of Washington or the ability to qualify for Admission on Motion in Washington is required. The ability to remain active with all Washington Bar annual requirements is essential. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.

The salary range for the Municipal Court Judge is $192,081– $209,931 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City provides an excellent benefits package, and interested candidates can learn more here.

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled with first review of applications on Monday, September 22, 2025.