Government
[Editor's note: This Candidate Statement was published without edits from The Highline Journal]
I'm a longtime White Center resident, and I've spent my legal career advocating for those who need it most.
I began my career as a prosecutor, protecting victims of domestic violence. I then spent six years as a public defender, defending constitutional rights and representing people struggling with addiction, mental illness, poverty, and other challenges. Today, I represent children in the child welfare system, advocating for their safety and well-being while helping them navigate difficult family circumstances.
In each of these roles, I've seen how the legal issues presented in court are often just the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the surface are problems involving addiction, mental illness, trauma, poverty, and family instability. Truly helping people requires understanding these underlying problems and helping people address them. Working directly with clients and helping them navigate the legal system has prepared me to bring a nuanced understanding of these challenges to the bench.
My experience has also shown me the limits of what courts can accomplish alone. Many challenges require support and accountability that no court order can provide. Treatment providers, families, and community organizations help people overcome obstacles, make lasting changes, and avoid repeated involvement in the justice system. Communities also reinforce expectations of lawful behavior, personal responsibility, and respect for others. That's why I believe courts should maintain strong relationships with community partners who support recovery, rehabilitation, and successful reintegration.
Equally important is the relationship between the court and the community itself. Judges should spend time outside the courtroom listening to residents, learning about their concerns, and engaging with people whose experiences with the justice system have left them feeling unheard. These efforts help judges understand the communities they serve and build the trust essential to an effective justice system.
Consider someone experiencing domestic violence who is deciding whether to call the police or seek a protection order. Taking that step can put them at risk of retaliation from their abuser. They are placing their safety in the hands of a system they must trust to respond effectively. If that system fails them, they may be left in an even more dangerous situation. Seeking protection is therefore an extraordinary act of trust, and our courts have a responsibility to earn that trust.
As a judge, I will make community engagement an ongoing part of my work. I will listen to residents, work to strengthen partnerships with community organizations and service providers and bring what I learn back to the courtroom to inform thoughtful, individualized decisions. I will work to make the court more accessible while remaining committed to fairness, accountability, and public safety.
I have been endorsed by unions, political organizations, elected officials, and community members. I would be honored to earn your vote.
Home - Merfeld for Judge
Noel Merfeld is running against Renee Walls for Judge in King County District Court Southwest Division, Position 5.
The Highline Journal extended the same invitation to both candidates. Publication is provided at no charge and does not constitute an endorsement.
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