Jaime Hawk, Candidate for Supreme Court Justice, Position 3

[Editor's note: This Candidate Statement was published without edits from The Highline Journal]

Judge Jaime Hawk has been a state and national legal leader for over 20 years and is a candidate for the Washington State Supreme Court, Position 3. As a Superior Court Judge, federal public defender, and an attorney with the ACLU of Washington, she has protected our rights and freedoms, including serving on the Supreme Court Minority and Justice Commission.

Currently serving as a Superior Court Judge, Judge Hawk has presided over hundreds of criminal, civil, and family law cases, as well as appeals from lower courts. She has never had a trial overturned for legal error. Above all, Judge Hawk follows the law and applies it fairly. More than 125 current and retired judges from across Washington, along with 9 current and retired Supreme Court justices, have endorsed Judge Hawk for this reason.

Raised by a single mom, Judge Hawk was the first in her family to attend college, graduating with honors from Gonzaga University Law School. In work before law school, Judge Hawk supported domestic violence survivors and found them safe shelter.

As an attorney, Judge Hawk fought in the courtroom for those who could not afford a lawyer. She handled trials and appeals, and defended Washingtonians against overreach from the federal government. She is the first attorney with the ACLU of Washington to become a judge. Based on her legal leadership, judicial qualifications, and history of standing up for the rights of Washingtonians, Judge Hawk earned the endorsement of both Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal and Governor Bob Ferguson.

Judge Hawk is a trusted, experienced legal leader. Senators Murray and Cantwell appointed her to their bipartisan federal judge selection committee. Additionally, the American Bar Association selected her to observe Guantanamo Bay military hearings, and later chose her to assist families at the border torn apart by Trump-era immigration policies.

Judge Hawk has received endorsements from leaders throughout South King County and elected officials across the state seeking an experienced and independent justice on the Supreme Court. She is endorsed by State Senator Tina Orwall, King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, and local community organizations. 

Judge Hawk will bring a strong, independent voice to the Supreme Court. Endorsed by Planned Parenthood, the National Women’s Political Caucus, and the State Labor Council, she understands the concerns of women and working families and will bring that perspective to the Court.

Throughout her career, Judge Hawk has been a committed and effective advocate for immigrant children, voting rights, veterans, and women’s rights. She has been endorsed by a diverse group of over 100 organizations, including independent Tribal Nations, teachers, firefighters, and nurses, along with The Seattle Times and The Stranger. This wide breadth of support underscores Judge Hawk’s dedication and proven track record toward advancing fairness and justice for every person in the state of Washington.

Judge Hawk’s highest priority on the Supreme Court will be protecting our rights and the rule of law. We need her leadership on the Court. Learn more at JudgeHawk.com.

Judge Jaime Hawk for Washington Supreme Court

At a critical moment for our courts, Judge Jaime Hawk will protect your rights and the rule of law on the Washington State Supreme Court.

Hawk for Justice

Jaime Hawk is running against David Stevens. [The Highline Journal has not received a candidate statement from David Stevens.]

The Highline Journal extended the same invitation to both candidates. Publication is provided at no charge and does not constitute an endorsement.