Justice Barbara Madsen marks 33 years on Washington Supreme Court with farewell remarks

The Washington State Supreme Court used the end of its oral-argument session to acknowledge Justice Barbara Madsen's retirement after 33 years on the bench.

The presiding justice announced that Madsen will retire effective April 3 and noted the coincidence with the International Day of Women Judges. The court thanked the clerk's office for confirming that Madsen's first argument on the court was State v. Gaines on Jan. 12, 1993, and highlighted her long record of leadership on gender and access-to-justice initiatives.

Justice Madsen addressed the courtroom, recalling starting law school in 1974 and the skepticism women faced at the time. She named mentors and supporters including Senator Jonathan Wetzel, Barbara Janick and Norma Huggins, and credited others such as Mayor Charles Royer for early opportunities. Madsen said she ran for the Supreme Court to bring a broader perspective and recounted being elected five times.

"We all need to see ourselves in the success of others who look like us," she said, expressing hope that more women will continue to build the history of the court. Colleagues joined in thanks; following the remarks the court adjourned.

Why it matters: Justice Madsen's retirement closes a 33-year tenure that included leadership roles and sustained work on gender and justice issues; her departure will be followed by the appointment or election process that fills the vacancy.