This post is part six of the “From the Archives” blog series, a 12‑part exploration of how the Seattle Municipal Court’s (SMC) work, people, and spaces have evolved over time. This month, we turn our attention to the milestones that have shaped our community—moments of dedication, service, and continuity that… [ Keep reading ]
Nearly 100 community members from across Seattle and King County visited Seattle Municipal Court (SMC)’s Community Resource Day on Aug. 21 at the Rainier Community Center in Columbia City. As in previous years, SMC staff supported attendees with setting up payment plans for Seattle traffic tickets, addressing outstanding warrants, and answering… [ Keep reading ]
This post is part of “From the Archives,” a 12-part series exploring how the Seattle Municipal Court’s work, people, and spaces have evolved over time. While courtrooms are the most visible symbol of the institution, much of what keeps the court operational happens far beyond public view. Two longtime employees,… [ Keep reading ]
For nearly 50 years, the U.S. has celebrated Law Day every May—a tradition first established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958 and officially designated by Congress in 1961. While Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) does not formally observe Law Day on May 1, the court hosts its own annual celebration later in the month, offering students and families… [ Keep reading ]
This post is the second in a 12-part series called “From the Archives” which explores different themes in the court’s history—highlighting how the work, the people, and the spaces have evolved over time. Click here to read part one. What the Work Looked Like Before digital case systems, court operations at Seattle… [ Keep reading ]
Fatoumata Diallo and Halima Mohamed recently wrapped up a monthslong job shadowing opportunity with Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) employees. They were participants in Legal Pathways at UW-Tacoma, a new initiative funded by the Washington State Legislature, that aims to help students interested in pursuing legal careers. Fatoumata recently sat down… [ Keep reading ]
For many people, the notion of coming to court or being involved in the judicial system is anxiety-inducing—especially for defendants. Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) has a resource available to help individuals who are going or have been through the court—its Community Resource Center, a service hub located in the courthouse… [ Keep reading ]
Seattle Municipal Court Assistant Presiding Judge Andrea Chin was recently honored by the Asian Bar Association of Washington (ABAW) with the Judge of the year award at their annual gala. Judge Chin received this award in recognition of her many accomplishments in the legal community and for her unwavering support and… [ Keep reading ]
On Friday, October 20th, Seattle Municipal Court Probation was honored with one of four Innovating Justice Awards by the Washington State Court’s Board For Judicial Administration. The award is given to individuals or groups who have provided exceptional leadership in helping courts deliver innovative and responsive justice by promoting race equity… [ Keep reading ]
Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) has developed three explainer videos as additional tools for guiding court-involved individuals through court processes and procedures. At SMC, we understand that receiving a ticket or being summoned to court can be a stressful time, and that court processes may be difficult to navigate. We are… [ Keep reading ]
