Barbara Madsen

Washington Supreme Court

Position Five

Legal/Judicial Experience: Justice, Supreme Court (1992-present); Chief Justice, (2009-present); Judge, Seattle Municipal Court (1988-1992); Presiding Judge (1990-1992); Commissioner, Seattle Municipal Court (1986-1988). Special Prosecutor, Seattle City Attorney (1981-1986); Attorney, Snohomish Public Defender (1979-1981); Attorney, Associated Counsel for the Accused (1977-1979); Intern, Spokane County Legal Services (1975-1976); University Legal Assistance (1976-1977).

Other Professional Experience: Production staff, Northwest Catholic Newspaper.

Education: B.A. U.W.; J.D. Gonzaga..

Community Service: Barbara and Don raised four children in Pierce County. She has volunteered with Judges in the Classroom, U.S. Navy Sea Cadets, Tacoma Rescue Mission, and YMCA Youth in Government.

Statement: Chief Justice Barbara Madsen has the experience, leadership, and courage necessary to protect the liberties guaranteed all citizens. Whether it's school funding or a neighborhood dispute, Barbara believes everyone is equal under the law.

Balanced Experience: A 1977 Gonzaga Law School graduate, Barbara has practiced in Eastern and Western Washington and has served as both a defense attorney and prosecutor. To help protect our most vulnerable, as Special Prosecutor she developed Seattle's Family Violence Project child abuse unit. A working mother and proud grandmother, Barbara has a balanced, common sense perspective on issues profoundly affecting people's lives.

Proven Leadership: After joining the Supreme Court, Barbara helped establish the Access to Justice Board and Commissions on Minority and Justice, Gender and Justice, Interpreter Services, and Children in Foster Care. Her endorsements include Democrats, Republicans, business, labor, and community groups--proof of her commitment to individual rights and holding the judicial system accountable to all.

Courage: We need the strong, honest, and compassionate voice of Chief Justice Madsen requiring the state meet its paramount duty to educate our children, leading access to justice initiatives, and breaking down barriers to re-entry after incarceration. She will protect our most precious liberties.

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