By Judge Patrick Oishi
Aloha from King County Superior Court.
On February 9th, the Court celebrated the formal investiture of Judge Taki Flevaris. Judge Flevaris was sworn in by Presiding Judge Patrick Oishi. He was robed by his parents, who traveled from Portland for the event. Chief Justice Steve González of the Washington State Supreme Court gave keynote remarks. Judge Flevaris made remarks and introduced his family and special guests. It was a terrific event formally welcoming Judge Flevaris to King County Superior Court. Judge Flevaris is assigned to our Unified Family Court Department and is really digging into his work. Great to have Judge Flevaris on board!
Then, on February 27th, the Court celebrated the formal investiture of Judge Coreen Wilson.
Judge Wilson was sworn in by Judge Mary Roberts. She was robed by her two children. Judge Catherine Shaffer and Judge Sean O’Donnell gave keynote remarks. Judge Wilson made remarks and introduced her family and special guests. This was another great investiture and a wonderful, formal celebration to welcome Judge Wilson to King County Superior Court. Judge Wilson is assigned to the Maleng Regional Justice Center as a general trial judge. Great to have Judge Wilson on the King County Superior Court bench!
On February 16th, the Court held a Black History Month event at the Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center, “Black Medical Pioneers: Confronting COVID, Healing Nations.” Dr. John Vassall was the keynote speaker. He is Clinical Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Clinical Education at Washington State University. The event also featured a performance by Alder Academy students. The event was organized by the KCSC African American History and Heritage Project (AAHHP), with support from the KCSC Courts and Community Committee.
There are rumors floating around about a possible re-opening of City Hall Park (CHP) this Spring. As meetings and discussions between the City of Seattle and King County move forward, the Court will vigilantly advocate for robust safety and security as part of the re-opening of CHP. The citizens of King County are depending on the City to ensure this area is safe before it is reopened, and that it remains a safe space after opening. We look forward to working with Mayor Harrell, as well as other city and county leaders, to ensure CHP is a safe and welcoming space for all and access to justice is not compromised.
King County Superior Court is working hard to address the still significant backlog of serious criminal cases. Our judicial officers, bailiffs, and staff should be given significant kudos for their immense work in trials and on calendars. Of course, as this important criminal case work continues, we also continue to focus on our critical work in all our departments. This includes Involuntary Treatment Court, Dependency, Unified Family Court, and the Civil Department. A huge Mahalo to our entire Superior Court team for their tireless efforts in providing access to justice to all.
