Thank you for taking the time to read about why I am running for election in 2026 to be a King County District Court Judge.

I am a lifelong resident of Washington State and have lived and worked in King County for thirty years. Both my legal and life experiences have uniquely qualified me to serve as a District Court Judge in these challenging times, and I hope to earn your vote.

I’ve spent my entire legal career working in critical roles that serve the King County Court system: as a victim advocate supporting domestic violence and sexual assault victims, as a prosecutor, public defender, criminal defense attorney, and civil litigator. And since 2022, elected judges across King County have asked me to serve as a Judge Pro Tem in their courts. This balanced experience is one of the reasons I have gained such broad support for my campaign to become an elected District Court Judge.

People from our communities come to the District Court seeking fairness, hope, and resolution. I am running for District Court Judge because I believe every person – no matter their background or their story – deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and humanity. I will work every day to uphold the law with integrity, while also recognizing the role that equity, rehabilitation and accountability to the community play in a just legal system. My own life experiences have prepared me well to connect with those who come before the Court dealing with issues around addiction, untreated mental health issues, and family challenges. I invite you to read more about my background here. I will bring both empathy and accountability to this role.

I have worked hard for the last 18 years to earn the respect of attorneys, judges, clients, and the community at large. I am eager to continue my career in public service with my election to the District Court bench. Between now and November 2026, I will be travelling throughout East King County to connect with as many voters as possible. I hope to earn your vote. Thank you.

Denice Gagner