SCJA President Scott
Michael Scott was appointed to the King County Superior Court by Governor Jay Inslee in April 2018. Prior to his appointment, Judge Scott practiced civil litigation for over 35 years, representing clients in complex commercial disputes and many other types of civil cases. He also devoted substantial time to pro bono public interest matters, including significant civil rights cases. In his community, Judge Scott served as a Bainbridge Island School Board member and as a Bainbridge Island City Council member.
During his tenure on the King County bench Judge Scott has served as Assistant Chief Criminal Judge and Chief Civil Judge. He has also served on his Court’s Executive Committee, and as chair of its Courts and Community Committee and Personnel Committee.
Judge Scott has been one of the SCJA’s members on the State Board for Judicial Administration (BJA) since 2019, where he has served as chair of the BJA’s Policy and Action Committee and its Legislative Committee. Judge Scott has also served on the Washington Pattern Jury Instruction Committee since 2019 and was co-chair of the Committee from 2020 to 2024.
Judge Scott is the proud father of two daughters and a son, and very happy grandfather of four grandchildren.
SCJA President Scott's Message
Dear colleagues,
It is an honor to serve as President of the Superior Court Judges’ Association for the 2026-2027 term. I am grateful for the trust my colleagues across Washington’s counties, large and small, have placed in me. I look forward to working on your behalf and alongside you in the year ahead.
The work of Washington’s Superior Courts is essential to the lives, safety, and rights of the people we serve. Whether in a small rural county or a large urban one, every judge faces the challenge of delivering justice fairly, efficiently, and with dignity for all who come before us.
As SCJA President, my commitment is to represent all Superior Court judges in our engagement with the legislative and executive branches, with our partners within the judicial branch, and with the communities we serve. I will work to ensure that courts across the state have the resources, support, and visibility needed to fulfill our vital role. I approach this work with humility and deep respect for the dedication I see in every courthouse in our state.
The SCJA is strongest when its members are active and collaborative. I invite your ideas, your concerns, and your partnership. Thank you for the work you do every day, and for the opportunity to serve you in this role.
~ Judge Michael R. Scott
King County Superior Court