The King County Council appointed Judge Paglisotti to the District Court bench in May of 2016, recognizing her work over 30+ years in varied roles within the justice system. She served indigent populations of King County as a public defender for 22+ years and worked with the youth of our community as both a juvenile corrections officer and probation counselor. Judges and attorneys alike praised her zealous advocacy for the disadvantaged, her knowledge of the law, and her strong but calm demeanor.

Judge Paglisotti was chosen to preside over the District Court’s first “community court”, an alternative problem-solving court aimed at helping low-level offenders who often cycle through the criminal justice system repeatedly. This innovative Court helps offenders reconnect with their community by providing links to housing, employment, education, mental health counseling and substance abuse services. Service to the community is required in lieu of jail time. Judge Paglisotti’s leadership has been instrumental in the Court’s initial success.

Judge Paglisotti was an active member of S.E.I.U. 925 and A.F.S.C.M.E. 2084 and is endorsed by the M.L. King County Labor Council. She is rated “Exceptionally Well Qualified” by the King County Bar Association and many independent minority bar associations.