8 Things to Know Before Running for Local Office
September 27, 2023
Run for Local Court Judge in Bellingham, WA
Election Date: Aug 5, 2025Filing Deadline: May 9, 2025
Election Details
- Office level: city
- Length of term: 4 years
- Commitment level: N/A
- Affiliation: nonpartisan
- Typical salary: N/A
- Filing period: May 5, 2025 - May 9, 2025
- Positions: Bellingham City Municipal Court JudgeBellingham City Municipal Court Judge
Job description
Local Court Judges are responsible for adjudicating cases in civil and criminal courts at the trial-level, such as small-claims court or drug court.
Eligibility requirements
Candidates must be registered voters of Whatcom County and an attorney admitted to practice law before the courts of record of the State of Washington.
FAQ
How often is Local Court Judge elected?
The position of Local Court Judge is typically elected every 4 years.
What does it mean for an election to be nonpartisan?
Nonpartisan elections do not require candidates to declare a party affiliation.
What are the filing requirements to get on the ballot in Bellingham, WA?
Filing fee is 1% of the salary of the position. A candidate who lacks sufficient assets or income at the time of filing to pay the filing fee required by this section shall submit with his or her declaration of candidacy a filing fee petition. The petition shall contain not less than a number of signatures of registered voters equal to the number of dollars of the filing fee. The signatures shall be of voters registered to vote within the jurisdiction of the office for which the candidate is filing.
Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?
Submit paperwork to the County Auditor's office.
Where is the filing office?
311 Grand Ave Suite 103, Bellingham WA 98225.
How can I get in touch with the filing office?
You can contact the filing office by calling 360-778-5102.
How do I get started running for Local Court Judge?
You can start running for Local Court Judge by checking to ensure you meet all filing deadlines and requirements. Next, you can prepare to file for office and start planning your campaign strategy. Get in touch with our team of campaign experts for help with any step of the campaign process!
Is there a primary or runoff election for this office?
The next election for Local Court Judge includes a primary, but not a runoff election.
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