Judicial Candidate Ratings

During Pierce County elections, there is often little information available about candidates who are running for judge. As a service to voters and elected officials who make judicial appointments, the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association (TPCBA) rates judicial candidates. The TPCBA’s Judicial Qualifications Committee evaluates each candidate and they are given a rating of “Exceptionally Well Qualified,” “Well Qualified,” “Qualified,” or “Not Qualified.”

Information is collected from the legal community and beyond and is used to rate the candidates on the following criteria:

  • Judicial temperament

  • Judgment and common sense

  • Intellect and ability

  • Compassion and understanding

  • Knowledge of the law

  • Integrity and honesty

  • Professional reputation

  • Physical and mental health

  • Industry and work habits

  • Writing and research skills

  • Decisiveness

  • Fairness and objectivity

  • Courtesy and patience

  • Any other factor that might affect the  Candidates ability to serve as a judge