Municipal Court Judge

ALL SUBMISSIONS MUST INCLUDE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS OUTLINED IN THE RFQ, LINKED BELOW:

CITY OF PASCO RFQ - MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE

SCOPE OF WORK

BACKGROUND The Pasco Municipal Court is a court of limited jurisdiction with authority under RCW 3.50. The Court adjudicates criminal misdemeanors, traffic and non-traffic infractions, and violations of city ordinances. The Court currently has 17 full-time employees, including the Court Administrator, clerks, and probation staff.

PURPOSE The purpose of this RFQ is to appoint a part-time Municipal Court Judge (approximately 30 hours per week) to preside over trials and other court dockets, perform judicial functions, administrative and limited non-docket functions and ensure compliance with statutory, ethical, and administrative requirements. The administrative and non-docket functions are supported by a full-time court administrator.

CONTRACT DURATION The judge will be appointed for a four-year statutory term pursuant to RCW 3.50.040, commencing upon appointment by the City Manager and confirmation by City Council

Duties And Responsibilities

• Preside over arraignments, trials, and sentencing hearings.
• Interpret and apply local ordinances, state laws, and court policies.
• Ensure proceedings are conducted fairly, impartially, and efficiently.
• Maintain courtroom order and adherence to procedural rules.
• Review evidence, hear oral arguments, and issue rulings.
• Review and rule on requests and legal documents, including continuances, warrants, subpoenas, and no contact orders.
• Oversee case flow management and court scheduling
• Select, train, and manage Pro Tem Judges.
• Ensure compliance with state indigent defense standards, including Wilbur v. City of Mount Vernon requirements.
• Collaborate with the Court Administrator, City Manager, and other officials to support efficient operations.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold judicial ethics.
• Engage in required judicial training and continuing education.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Consistent with RCW 3.50.040 and RCW 3.50.057 all applicants must be citizens of the United States, resident of the State of Washington, and a resident of Franklin County.
• Licensed to practice law in Washington and in good standing.
• Strong understanding of Washington State law, local ordinances, and court procedures.
  
  

COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS

• Excellent decision-making, and courtroom management skills.
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Integrity, impartiality, and fairness in decision-making.
• Respect for judicial ethics and avoidance of impropriety.
• Ability to manage courtroom proceedings effectively.
• Proficiency with modern court technology and case management systems.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Judicial experience, including service as a Pro Tem Judge.
• Experience in criminal law and courtroom management.
  
  

SELECTION PROCESS

SOQ’s will be reviewed by a screening committee. Selected candidates will be invited for interviews. Finalists will be interviewed by the City Manager, who will make a recommendation for appointment to City Council. Appointment is effective upon City Council confirmation.

Submittal Requirements

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS PACKAGE

Applicants must submit a complete SOQ Package that includes the following:

• Resume detailing education, professional background, and relevant experience.
• Cover letter and statement of qualifications outlining interest in the position, judicial experience, and legal expertise. The statement must include the applicant’s Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) number.
• A release allowing the City of Pasco access to all WSBA disciplinary investigation and/or actions