2006 Seattle Elections

General Elections Voters' Guide

Seattle Municipal Court Judge Position 1 - Edsonya Charles

Edsonya Charles - Nonpartisan

My name is Edsonya Charles, and it has been my privilege to serve as your Seattle Municipal Court Judge since 2004.

Access to Justice - I dedicate myself to the principle of open access to justice for all. The Municipal Court is the “people’s court,” where average people are most likely to encounter the justice system. Everyone who comes before the court will have a free and open hearing. Not all will agree with what I decide at the end of the day, but they will know they were heard.

I have the depth of experience citizens expect from their judges.

After I earned my law degree from the University of Washington, I was a federal prosecutor, focusing on economic fraud cases. My proudest achievements including receiving the United States Department of Justice Special Achievement Award and twice receiving Al Gore’s Government Reinvention Hammer Award for my work in prosecuting criminals who lied and stole from working people.

Before being named to the bench, I advised Mayor Nickels on public safety and human service issues, and served as his deputy legal counsel.

Knowing the Law and the Challenges of Daily Life - In addition to knowing the law, I understand the tough issues confronting people in their daily lives. Before obtaining my law degree, I was executive director of the Seattle Human Services Coalition, a multi-racial, multi-cultural group committed to meeting the basic needs of Seattle-King County residents. In the past, I served on boards of organizations dedicated to the welfare of our city’s most vulnerable citizens. I currently serve as president of the Mount Zion Housing Development Council.

Protecting Society and Individual Rights - I currently preside over the Mental Health Court, a therapeutic court addressing the unique needs of mentally ill defendants. The world is not simply divided into victims and accused persons. It takes a compassionate mind as well as a legal mind to find the best resolution. On the court, I have worked to protect the safety of the public and the rights of the individual. My experience, my compassion, and my relentless pursuit of the truth serve me well in this work. Let me continue to work for you. I am asking for your vote so I can continue to serve you as your Seattle Municipal Court Judge.

Unopposed