Title: An act relating to superior court judges.

Brief Description: Authorizing three superior court judges in Clallam county.

Sponsors: Representatives Kessler, Buck, Kagi, Curtis and Takko.

Hearing Date: 1/10/06

Staff: Edie Adams (786-7180).

Background:

The Legislature sets by statute the number of superior court judges in each county. The state and the counties share the costs of the superior courts. Benefits and one-half of the salary of a superior court judge are paid by the state. The other half of the judge's salary and all other costs associated with a judicial position, such as capital and support staff costs, are borne by the county.

Periodically, the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) does a workload analysis of the superior courts to determine if additional judicial positions are needed.

Clallam County has two statutorily authorized judges. The workload analysis conducted by the AOC indicates a need for an additional judge for the county.

Summary of Bill:

One additional superior court judge is authorized in Clallam County.

The additional judicial position is effective only if Clallam County documents its approval of the additional position and agrees to pay for its share of the costs for the position without reimbursement from the state.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.