Growing Caseloads Prompt Calls for Additional Judge in Yakima County

For the last 30-years Yakima County has operated a growing list of criminal and civil cases with only 8 judges in Yakima County Superior Court. That's about to change.

SUCCESSFUL LEGISLATION THAT COULD RESULT IN A NEW JUDGE

Legislation sponsored by Rep. Gloria Mendoza, a republican from Grandview, to add a ninth judge to the Yakima County Superior Court was approved unanimously Friday by the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee.

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A GROWING CASELOAD FOR THE LAST 30-YEARS

Mendoza says her House Bill 2412 is the result of growing caseloads, mounting backlogs, and public safety concerns in Yakima County, which has operated with the eight Superior Court judges despite a steady population growth and a sharp increase in the volume and complexity of criminal and civil cases.

MENDOZA SAYS OTHER LAWMAKERS UNDERSTAND

"I'm pleased the committee recognized the urgency of this issue and voted to move the bill forward," says Mendoza. "This is an important step toward improving access to justice for families, victims, and everyone who relies on our court system."
Mendoza says Yakima County has waited a long time for relief in the court system.
A press release says data from the Administrative Office of the Courts shows Yakima County is among the fastest-growing counties in Washington, with thousands of cases exceeding "recommended time standards."

AN OVERBURDENED SYSTEM IMPACT PEOPLE AND FAMILIES

Mendoza says court delays impact "victims waiting for resolution, families stuck in limbo, and defendants navigating an overburdened system."
So who would pay for the new judge? The annual cost of is an estimated $220,000, shared between the state and Yakima County.
HB 2412 awaits referral for further action in the House.