Name: Joseph Wilson
Title: Judge
Court: Snohomish Cnty Superior Court
County: Snohomish
Discipline: Censure
Method of Resolution: Stipulation
Discipline Date: 11/20/2020
Canons Violated:Canon 1: Rules 1.1 and 1.2 and Canon 2: Rules 2.3(A) & (B), 2.6(A),2.7 and 2.8(A) &(B)
Summary: From an agreed statement of facts, Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Joseph Wilson stipulated that he violated Canon 1 (Rules 1.1 and 1.2) and Canon 2 (Rules 2.3(A) & (B), 2.6(A), 2.7 and 2.8(A) & (B)) of the Code of Judicial Conduct. Judge Wilson violated the Code by 'using language and manifesting a demeanor that was indecorous, undignified, impatient and discourteous' and in two instances, in addition to being indecorous, created the appearance he was biased and/or prejudiced against a defendant. Additionally, Judge Wilson stipulated that in two instances, he violated the Code by refusing to consider a defense attorney's argument and/or not allowing that attorney to make a record and by not deciding matters assigned to him. The Commission censured Judge Wilson and ordered him to complete two hours of relevant ethics training, to participate in behavioral coaching, and to promptly read the Code.
Case Documents Available:
Certificate of Completion and Order filed 4/19/2024.
Stipulation, Agreement and Order of Censure filed 11/20/2020.