Michael Hurtado

Seattle Municipal Court

Position Six

Judge Michael Hurtado graduated from University of Washington School of Law in 1978. Since his appointment to the Seattle Municipal Court by former Mayor Norm Rice in 1993, he’s been re-elected to the Bench by Seattle voters four times. He has more than 32 years of legal experience.

Soon after his appointment, Judge Hurtado determined that he would be fair and compassionate in his court decisions, and that he would serve his community. He began by bringing more than 2,000 students to his courtroom to explain the judicial system to steer students away from a life of crime. For his educational efforts, he received KOMO Television’s “Home Town Hero” Award. He volunteers with many community organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of King County, Goodwill, University Preparatory School, Concilio for the Spanish Speaking.

Judge Hurtado’s consistency in adjudicating fairly and compassionately, helped him earn the statewide 2002 Trial Judge of the Year Award from the Washington State Bar Association.

Judge Hurtado’s experience has been varied and unique. In addition to serving in King County Jail “Night Court” for 11 years, he has presided over DUI, domestic violence, traffic, and theft cases.

His recent three years of experience in mental health court has been humbling and eye-opening. This court serves are our fellow citizens who have a mental disorder that causes them to violate Seattle’s Criminal Code. One option for those that experience two or more disorders at the same time, such as drug addiction combined with a mental disorder is two years of intensive probation. Judge Hurtado has practiced a unique judicial philosophy that is therapeutic in nature, while imposing strict sanctions when necessary.

Judge Hurtado believes it is a privilege to be elected by Seattle citizens to serve in “The People’s Court.” Growing up in South Central Los Angeles where he was a victim of gang violence, followed by service in Viet Nam and Thailand, are among his real-life experiences. These provide him with a unique, understanding lens from which to view others, but always with utmost regard for public safety and the rule of law.

Partial listing of Judge Hurtado’s endorsements: King County Labor Council King County Corrections Guild Seattle Municipal Court Marshall’s Guild 37th and 46th District Democrats Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez-Kenney (D-46th District) Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos (D-37th District) Estela Ortega, El Centro de la Raza Rev. Harriet Walden

Finance report:

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