Letter to Spokane Chapter JACL

In the next few weeks, Governor Jay Inslee will appoint a Spokane attorney to fill the position of judge left open with the unfortunate passing of the Honorable James Triplett. Spokane County’s Superior Court has lacked in diversity with the only minority still on the bench Judge Ellen Kalama Clarke retired. There is an opportunity for Governor Inslee to rectify this by appointing Ward Andrews as a judge.

Ward is a highly qualified, longtime Spokane attorney who is of Japanese ancestry. He has
practiced primarily as a defense lawyer representing individuals who have been sued in civil litigation. His reputation amongst his peers is stellar. Even those on the other side of the lawsuits have recognized that despite being a vigorous advocate for his clients, Ward does so with the utmost integrity and compassion. He never loses sight of his ethical obligations to the legal system and considers his reputation for honesty and morality his greatest assets. These characteristics are invaluable for judges. They must preside with impartiality and objectivity over every individual who comes before the court. Ward has consistently demonstrated he has the ability to do so.

Ward is also someone who has been devoted to his family. His daughters benefited from a
father who understood the importance of being involved in their personal growth and
development. He spent many hours involved in their academic and sporting activities.
Throughout, no matter what occurred, he remained their greatest fan. He is also a dedicated husband and provider who understands how important comprise, respect and balance are to a relationship. These same characteristics are very important for judges in addition to the compassion and understanding necessary to deal with often times very difficult cases or individuals.

Spokane County’s judiciary and the public it serves can benefit from Ward’s Japanese ancestry. Among other things., his understanding of issues such as racism or inequality will place him in a unique position to fully understand and appreciate these problems should they come before him as a judge.

I hope you will give strong consideration to supporting Ward as he goes through the process of appointment by Governor Inslee. He will be an asset to the bench and our community. Thank you.

Mark Kamitomo - Spokane Attorney
Lisa Dickinson - Spokane Attorney