Washington Courts Report

Administrative Office of the Courts

Washington Courts Report is the official podcast of the Administrative Office of the Courts. Hosted by AOC’s Patric Haerle, episodes will cover some of the most exciting work happening in the AOC and around Washington State Court System as a whole.

Keep an eye out for new episodes releasing monthly by subscribing or following Washington Courts Report on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

We would like to hear what is happening in your court and what issues you think need exploring. Send your episode ideas, news suggestions or feedback for the show to the host Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov for consideration and planning.

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#25
October 29 · 31 min
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: A Conversation with the Gender and Justice Commisssion
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we're joined by Judge Rebecca Glasgow, Court of Appeals Division II judge and co-chair of Washington's Gender and Justice Commission, and Quinn Dalan, Executive Director of Central Washington Legal Aid and co-chair of the Commission's Domestic and Sexual Violence Committee. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and promote education and prevention efforts in our communities. In this episode, we discuss the role courts, legal aid organizations, advocates, and community partners play in helping survivors access resources, protection, and justice. Judge Glasgow and Dalan share how the Gender and Justice Commission works to address gender bias in Washington's courts, improve court responses to gender-based violence, provide judicial education and resources, and support efforts to make the justice system more accessible and responsive to survivors. They also discuss ongoing challenges, promising initiatives, and the importance of continued collaboration to improve safety and access to justice across Washington State. Subscribe for monthly episodes and stay connected with the Washington Courts Report.
#24
September 30 · 31 min
Bench-Bar-Press Committee: Balancing Fair Trial and Free Press
What happens when judges, attorneys, and journalists come together to better understand each other’s roles and responsibilities? This month, host Patric Haerle speaks with former King County Superior Court judges Bill Downing and Judy Ramseyer about the history and work of Washington’s Bench-Bar-Press Committee, including its upcoming annual conference and luncheon. Both guests previously chaired the Liaison Sub-committee of Bench-Bar-Press (more commonly known as the Fire Brigade) and bring decades of experience navigating the intersection of courts, media, and public understanding. Together, they discuss the committee’s longstanding efforts to strengthen relationships across the bench, bar, and press; highlighting why building trust and clarity is essential before challenging situations arise. They also explore the resources available to judges, attorneys, and journalists working through questions of court access, media coverage, and public transparency. This episode also looks ahead to the Bench-Bar-Press Committee’s annual conference and luncheon on November 6 at the Washington Athletic Club in Seattle, where attendees will have the opportunity to connect across professions and hear a timely panel on elections, voting rights, and public confidence. Have suggestions for the show or questions about anything discussed in the episode? Email Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov.
#23
August 31 · 20 min
The Declaration at 250: Reflections from the Washington Supreme Court
In this episode of Washington Courts Report, the Washington Supreme Court reflects on this milestone anniversary and the courts’ ongoing responsibility to safeguard the rule of law. Host Patric Haerle sits down with Chief Justice Debra Stephens and Justice Sal Mungia to discuss the Court’s recently released open letter commemorating the Declaration’s 250th anniversary. They explore why the Court chose to issue the letter, the foundational values it aims to reaffirm, and the thoughtful, collaborative process behind crafting a public statement for such a historic moment. Listen today to hear how Washington’s highest court is honoring this anniversary—and how each of us is invited to reflect on the meaning and future of our shared democratic ideals.
#22
July 10 · 31 min
Juvenile Courts
In this episode, host Patric Haerle talks with Chris Simonsmeier (Clark County Juvenile Court Administrator and WAJCA President) and Jack Murphy (Douglas County Juvenile Court Administrator and incoming WAJCA President). They discuss the work of the Washington Association of Juvenile Court Administrators, new developments in juvenile justice, and how detention alternatives and diversion programs are shaping the future for young people across the state. Subscribe for monthly episodes and stay connected with the Washington Courts Report.
#21
May 29 · 16 min
Law Day 2026: Lawyers in the Classroom
In this episode of the Washington Courts Report, host Patric Haerle speaks with Marie Docter, Attorney at Briggs and Briggs and President of the Thurston County Bar Association, about the Lawyers in the Classroom program. On Law Day on May 1, the Washington State Bar Association partnered with the Administrative Office of the Courts and the Washington Supreme Court to launch a statewide classroom pledge. The initiative encourages lawyers across Washington to teach a civics lesson on or around Constitution Day to help strengthen civic understanding and bridge divides. Marie shares her experiences participating in the program, including how it benefits students and practical advice for attorneys preparing to visit a classroom. A great listen for anyone interested in civics education, public service, or supporting Washington’s future learners.
#20
April 30 · 17 min
Second Chance Month and Reentry Programs
April is Second Chance Month. A month dedicated to informing and highlighting the many opportunities for state, local, and tribal governments and community-based service providers to build meaningful second chances for people returning from incarceration. To mark the occasion, host Patric Haerle sat down with the AOC’s own Yvonne Jones, a Senior Court Program Analyst, to discuss reentry programs, including: the kind of services they provide, why they’re needed and highlighting just a few of the many reentry programs in Washington.
#19
March 12 · 30 min
Civics Education with Justice Sal Mungia
It’s Civic Learning Week — a national effort to highlight the importance of civic education in sustaining and strengthening our democracy. To mark the occasion, host Patric Haerle sits down with Supreme Court Justice Sal Mungia for a conversation on all things civics: why civics education matters, the role of Mock Trials and the Traveling Court program, his recent experience serving jury duty and what it taught him, his work with a local school district, and his recommendations for accessible civic resources. Listen now and join the Civic Learning Week conversation.
#18
February 26 · 18 min
What's New in Washington Courts: 2026 State of the Judiciary Report
Want to catch up on some of the biggest developments from the past year in Washington Courts? Tune in to the latest episode of Washington Courts Report! In this episode, host Patric Haerle walks through key takeaways from the 2026 State of the Judiciary Report, released this week to inform lawmakers and the public about the challenges, innovations, leadership updates, and major court news from the past year. Highlights include: • Updates from the Supreme Court’s Minority and Justice Commission • Newly adopted scoring changes for Washington’s Universal Bar Exam • Progress in the Hope Card program and Blake relief efforts • A historic transition underway at the Washington Supreme Court New episodes are released monthly. Be sure to subscribe the Washington Courts YouTube page or follow Washington Courts Report on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to stay up to date. We’d love to hear from you. Share what’s happening in your court or suggest future topics by emailing Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov.
#17
January 30 · 28 min
2025 Court Manager of the Year: Leadership That Makes a Difference
What makes a great court administrator? Find out in the newest episode of Washington Courts Report! In our January edition, host Patric Haerle talks with Marlynn Markley, the 2025 Court Manager of the Year, about her 43 years of service with Whitman County District Court and what it takes to be an effective court administrator. In the second half, Patric is joined by Dawn Marie Rubio, State Court Administrator, and Linnea Anderson, San Juan County Juvenile Court Administrator — co-chairs of the Court Management Council. They share insights on the Council’s role, the award selection process, and the leadership qualities that make a court administrator stand out. The Court Management Council presents this award annually to individuals whose leadership has transformed their courts and inspired others to take action for the greater good. Keep an eye out for new podcast episodes releasing monthly by subscribing to the Washington Courts YouTube page or by following Washington Courts Report on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear from you! Share what’s happening in your court or suggest topics you’d like us to explore. Send your ideas, news, or feedback to host Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov for consideration in future episodes.
#16
Nov 20, 2025 · 36 min
Minority and Justice Commission: Building Bias Free Courts
In our November edition, host Patric Haerle explores the vital work of the Washington Supreme Court’s Minority and Justice Commission (MJC). The Commission is dedicated to ensuring that all courts in Washington remain free of bias, so that justice is administered fairly and impartially. Listen in as Patric speaks with Judge Veronica Galvan, co-chair of the Commission, and Frank Thomas, Senior Commission Staff. Together, they discuss the history of the MJC, the impact of its Annual Symposium over the years, and the lasting contributions of former co-chair Justice Mary Yu. Keep an eye out for new podcast episodes releasing monthly by subscribing to the Washington Courts YouTube page or by following Washington Courts Report on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear from you! Share what’s happening in your court or suggest topics you’d like us to explore. Send your ideas, news, or feedback to host Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov for consideration in future episodes. MJC Homepage: Washington State Courts Washington Courts Annual Symposium: Washington State Supreme Court / Minority and Justice Symposium - TVW
#15
Oct 22, 2025 · 29 min
Disability Justice Task Force: Ensuring Access, Dignity, and Equity
In this episode of the Washington Courts Report, we explore the groundbreaking work of the Disability Justice Task Force (DJTF), formed by the Washington State Supreme Court in January 2022 to transform how people with disabilities experience the court system. Host Patric Haerle speaks with Supreme Court Justice Helen Whitener and AOC Senior Program Analyst Joslyn Nelson about the first-of-its-kind study that goes far beyond ADA compliance. This 600+ page report focuses on lived experiences, intersectionality, procedural equity, and real-world barriers that people with both visible and non-visible disabilities face when engaging with the justice system. Over 650 court professionals and users participated in an unprecedented response, revealing systemic challenges such as inaccessible courthouse infrastructure, fear of requesting accommodations, and bias in court processes. Justice Whitener and Nelson discuss proposed rule changes to GR 33 (disability accommodations) and GR 31 (privacy and public disclosure protections), as well as the need for ongoing funding to support this transformative work. Learn more about the Disability Justice Task Force: https://www.courts.wa.gov/disability-justice-task-force/ DJTF Study: https://www.courts.wa.gov/disability-justice-task-force/public/FINAL-DJTF-STUDY-REPORT.pdf
#14
Sep 2, 2025 · 17 min
Court Security
Another episode of AOC’s podcast, “Washington Courts Report” is now live! Listen in as host Patric Haerle interviews Kyle Landry, a Court Security Consultant for the AOC as they sit down and discuss all things court security. Landry oversees AOC’s Courthouse Security Office, which advises courts on best practices, conducts security assessments, supports court security committees, coordinates security grants, and provides advisory services to judges and court staff who receive threats, among other services.
#13
Jul 29, 2025 · 21 min
Judicial Well-being
This edition focuses on judicial well-being, as host Patric Haerle speaks with Spokane Municipal Court Judge Mary Logan about the Judicial Assistance Services Program (JASP). Chaired by Judge Logan, JASP is a joint committee of SCJA and DMCJA that provides confidential support to judicial officers through trained peer counselors, fellow judges and referrals to professional help. Founded in 2004, JASP addresses the unique challenges judges face in seeking support due to the nature of their roles. This episode arrives at a time of growing international attention to judicial well-being. Earlier this year, the United Nations General Assembly declared July 25 the International Day for Judicial Well-Being, recognizing the widespread stress, burnout, and stigma that judges experience globally. The resolution is a call to action for institutions to provide systemic support and protect the health and integrity of the judiciary. Listen now to learn more about how Washington’s courts are addressing this critical issue.
#12
Jun 30, 2025 · 33 min
2025 Legislative Review
In this edition, host Patric Haerle is joined by Haily Perkins, Supervisor of the AOC’s Office of Judicial and Legislative Relations, and Court of Appeals Division II Judge Rebecca Glasgow, Chair of the Board for Judicial Administration’s Legislative Committee. Tune in to hear highlights from the 2025 legislative session, including a discussion of key bills impacting judicial operations. Perkins and Judge Glasgow provide insight into how the BJA develops and submits its legislative proposals, review some of the most significant bills affecting courts and the AOC at the and offer a preview of what might be on the horizon for next year.
#11
Jun 11, 2025 · 29 min
Innovating Justice: Yakima's Courthouse Clinic
In this edition, host Patric Haerle interviews the Executive Director of Central Washington Legal Aid Quinn Dalan and Yakima Municipal Court Commissioner Wendy Winfield. who founded Yakima’s Courthouse Clinic Program, which received a 2024 Innovating Justice Awards for its work to finalize family law cases in Yakima. The award recognizes individuals or groups for providing exceptional leadership in helping courts across Washington State deliver innovative and responsive justice using a race equity lens. The Courthouse Clinic, founded by Dalan, Winfield and Judge Shane Silverthorn, has helped hundreds of individuals, often pro se or non-English speaking litigants, by assisting them in completing essential forms to finalize their agreed or default family law cases. Before the implementation of the Courthouse Clinic, individuals would arrive at court thinking that they were finished and were sent back and rescheduled, often numerous times, before they brought in the correct paperwork to the judge. Dalan and Winfield were able to provide access to justice for those who don't understand how to navigate the legal system and don't have the resources to hire attorneys. Today’s episode covers the functions of the Courthouse Clinic, how it got started, what motivates Dalan and Winfield to go above and beyond in their field and how they felt when the work was recognized with the Innovating Justice Award.
#10
Apr 30, 2025 · 21 min
Innovating Justice: Pierce County Pathways to Progress
In this edition, host Patric Haerle interviews one of the recipients of the 2024 Innovating Justice Awards, Dom Hardeman, Pierce County District Court’s Probation Manager, on Pierce County’s one-of-a-kind Pathways to Progress Program. The award recognizes individuals or groups for providing exceptional leadership in helping courts across Washington State deliver innovative and responsive justice using a race equity lens. The program, which was created by Hardeman, has helped hundreds of justice-impacted individuals by connecting them to essential services for recovery and reintegration, such as behavioral health services, employment connections and training, and housing services. Topics of conversation for today’s episode include the creation of Pathways to Progress, how the program is innovating justice in Pierce County, and what motivates Hardeman to go above and beyond in his work serving Pierce County.
#9
Mar 25, 2025 · 24 min
Blake Refund Bureau Spotlight
For our March edition of Washington Courts Report, host Patric Haerle interviewed the AOC’s own Chris Stanley, the Chief Financial and Management Officer for the AOC, and Robin Zimmermann, the Blake External Relations Liaison on the important work of the Blake Refund Bureau. In 2021, the Washington State Supreme Court found the law criminalizing drug possession unconstitutional. As a result of this decision, known as State v. Blake, any Blake-related convictions in Washington State qualify to be vacated from one's criminal record, and any legal financial obligations paid as a result qualify for financial reimbursement. To administer these reimbursements statewide, the Washington State Legislature determined a centralized bureau would be instrumental. AOC was appointed the task of developing the Blake Refund Bureau in collaboration with local courts and county clerks, public defenders, prosecutors, impacted individuals, advocacy groups and other stakeholders, which launched July of 2023. Highlights of the episode include the history of the Refund Bureau, a clip from a Blake-impacted Individual on how having their record vacated has helped them and insight into how much money has been refunded to Blake-impacted individuals and how much is still slated for distribution. We want to hear from you about how we can best improve the show! If you have any feedback, suggestions, or ideas for future episode topics please email them to Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.go
#8
Mar 4, 2025 · 38 min
Hope Card Program Launch
For today's episode, Patric interviewed program analyst for the AOC, Lauren Pilnick, and Survivor Advocate, Jamie Sullivan, on their role they’ve played in the launch of the state’s Hope Card program, which launched on January 1st of this year. The Hope Card Program makes it easier for individuals with full civil protection orders to carry important details about their orders. These wallet-sized, durable cards include the information law enforcement needs to verify a protection order if a violation occurs. Hope Cards are a simpler way to inform police, employers, schools, or landlords about your protection order and are completely free. Highlights include the first statistics from the programs first 6 weeks of being live, the importance of this bill to survivors and holders of protection orders, and journey the program took from a single advocate’s idea in 2023, all the way to the presentation of the first Hope Card to Sullivan this year. We want to hear from you in how we can best improve the show! If you have any feedback, suggestions, or ideas for future episode topics please email them to Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov
#7
Feb 25, 2025 · 10 min
State of the Judiciary
Washington Courts Report is back! In this special episode, Patric returns from a hiatus to cover the recent State of the Judiciary publication and address from recently elected Chief Justice Debra Stephens. Topics covered include building courts of the future, Yakima’s Courthouse Clinic, AOC’s work with therapeutic courts, the Pierce County Juror Pay Pilot, the important work of the Blake Refund Bureau and a brief mention of our next podcast topic coming later in February, on the launch of the state’s Hope Card program. We want to hear from you in how we can best improve the show! If you have any feedback, suggestions, or ideas for future episode topics please email them to Patric.Haerle@courts.wa.gov
#6
Dec 3, 2024 · 34 min
Artificial Intelligence in the Courts
In our newest episode, we have Artificial Intelligence on the brain, as host Patric Haerle sits down to discuss AI — and its potential impacts on the legal system — with two judges from the Washington Data Science and AI Cohort. Highlights from the episode include Judge Ketu Shah’s explanation on the potential benefits of AI to the courts and those in the legal professions at the 11:30 mark in the recording, and Judge Lisa Mansfield’s introductions to potential risks it could pose, and the intersection of AI and racial justice starting at minute 16. Keep an eye out for new podcast episodes releasing monthly by subscribing to the Washington Courts YouTube page or by following Washington Courts Report on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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