LYNNWOOD, WA (November 10, 2021) - On Monday, November 8, 2021, the City Council unanimously approved Mayor Nicola Smith's appointment of Valerie Bouffiou to serve as Lynnwood's next Municipal Court Judge. 

Judge Bouffiou brings with her 18 years of judicial and litigation experience. She has served as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and Administrative Law Judge. For the past 8 years, she has been serving as a Judge Pro Tem, serving 16 courts in Snohomish and King Counties. For the past 4 years, her Judge Pro Tem work has brought her to the Lynnwood Municipal Court. 

"I am thrilled to welcome Judge Valerie Bouffiou as our next Presiding Municipal Judge," said Mayor Nicola Smith. "After an in-depth search, with several very qualified applicants, Valerie's commitment to therapeutic justice and her stellar reputation in the region made her absolutely the right choice for Lynnwood. Judge Bouffiou's leadership will be a key component to the success of our new Community Justice Center."

"This is a time of tremendous opportunity for the City of Lynnwood to begin transforming the Municipal Court into a model of collaborative effort among the city's criminal justice stakeholders," stated Judge Valerie Bouffiou. "My judicial philosophy emphasizes compassionate justice balanced with accountability, and open communication, collaboration, and teamwork between the court, the city, and community stakeholders. I look forward to developing more therapeutic programs and providing a positive approach to reduce recidivism for our justice-involved community members."

Judge Valerie Bouffiou began her legal career as a Deputy Prosecutor in Snohomish County where she practiced in District, Juvenile, and Superior Court for over 7 years. With charges ranging from driving under the influence to murder, Judge Bouffiou handled countless criminal cases from investigation through trial. Working closely with the many stakeholders in the justice system, Judge Bouffiou earned a reputation as a fair, efficient and collaborative colleague. Judge Bouffiou also has experience as a criminal defense attorney, rounding out her broad perspective on the justice system. 

Judge Bouffiou is an active member of the community. She serves as a part-time faculty member in the paralegal program and Edmonds College and is a YMCA board member. She regularly volunteers for local school "Law Days" where she enjoys working as a team with law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, and teachers to create a positive relationship between students and their government. 

About the Municipal Court:

The Lynnwood Municipal Court is the judicial branch of the City of Lynnwood. The mission of the Municipal Court is to contribute to the quality of life in our community by fairly and impartially administering justice in a manner that preserves both the dignity and rights of the defendant as well as the residents of Lynnwood. The Lynnwood Municipal Court Judge is an appointed position.

Currently Presiding Judge Stephen E. Moore, has served as the Lynnwood Municipal Court since 2001. The City of Lynnwood wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Judge Moore for his dedicated service to our community.