By U.S. District Court judges, Western WA District an article from the Seattle Times.

Special to The Seattle Times

We are the 17 federal district court judges of the Western District of Washington. We were appointed by five different presidents, and we write together to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. As our nation celebrates its founding document, we reflect on the reason for its creation. The Declaration not only announced this country’s separation from Great Britain but also set forth 27 specific grievances — warnings from the founders that tyranny follows when the law is trampled in the quest for power.

Come for the CLE credits, stay for the community.

Join us for the King County Bar Association’s First Annual Conference, a dynamic gathering designed to bring KCBA members together for meaningful connection, practical support, and professional growth. Taking place from September 17-18, 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Seattle, this inaugural event centers on what matters most to today’s legal professionals: building relationships, strengthening practice skills, and navigating the evolving legal landscape.

The conference will kick off with a Welcome Reception on the evening of September 17, offering attendees an opportunity to connect with colleagues, meet speakers, and expand their professional networks.

On September 18, participants will enjoy a full day of engaging CLE programming, featuring thought-provoking keynotes and practical sessions tailored to attorneys at all stages of their careers.

Tentative plenary session topics:

• A.I. Policies for Law Offices
• Attorney Wellness—Now a WSBA Licensing Requirement?
• Innovation in Attorney Fee Structures
• Social Media Marketing for Attorneys
• Insurance Coverage for the Non-Insurance Attorney
• Legal Writing Master Class
• Update on WA Alternative Pathways to Licensure

This conference is for KCBA members only.

In addition to CLE, the Conference will feature complimentary headshots, section/division-specific networking opportunities, exhibitor tables, law-related apparel and other goodies for sale, and an optional dine-around lunch September 18.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, expand your network, or rejuvenate your practice, the KCBA First Annual Conference is your opportunity to come together with colleagues and invest in your future.

We are excited to see you at this inaugural annual event! Register today by clicking here.

Sponsorships are available. to find the sponsorship level that best suits your organization, click here.

The 2025–26 membership year was a special one! Not least because the Member Services Department added 2 new staff members: David Swidler joined us as Events Coordinator, and Habtamu Kabeto joined us as our new Sections Coordinator. Welcome!
 

Statement from the KCBA Board of Trustees on the Rule of Law

ACRS, ABAW, and KCBA relaunch Rainier Valley Legal Clinic.

This brief, filed by KCBA and many other bar associations and supporting injunctive relief for the law firm Susman Godfrey, was filed on 4/25/25. KCBA thanks and acknowledges the work of Protect Democracy Project and students at the Harvard School of Law, which made this briefing possible. 

Last week, the KCBA learned that metropolitan bar associations across the country were considering joining an amicus brief in support of Perkins Coie’s request for permanent injunctive relief in Federal District Court, in the District of Columbia. In considering the request to join, the KCBA considered whether the brief is consistent with the statement of support earlier approved by the KCBA Board of Trustees. The amicus brief in support of Perkins Coie, available here, includes more than a dozen bar associations who agree that the Executive Order directed at Perkins Coie represents an attack on the independence of the legal profession, constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The brief was filed on April 7, 2025.

The King County Bar Association stands with Perkins Coie as it defends itself following the publication of Executive Order 14230, which threatens the rule of law and the constitutional rights of the entire legal community.

King County Bar Association Board of Trustees has announced that Kathleen Jensen has accepted the position of Executive Director at the King County Bar, a position that has been empty since Christina Entrekin Coad stepped down in mid-September.