Debra L. Burchett Censured Suspended Removed

Cowlitz County District Court Judge Debra Burchett issued a judgment in favor of a counterclaim that no party had ever actually filed in the case. When the Washington Commission on Judicial Conduct asked her to explain how a judgment could exist for a legal claim that was never asserted, Burchett was unable to account for it.

Separately, the Commission found Burchett had gone off the record during a traffic infraction hearing without stating a reason, then returned on the record and dismissed the case — again without explanation.

The Washington Supreme Court accepted the Commission's recommendation, censuring Burchett and suspending her from the bench for 10 days without pay. As part of resolving the case, Burchett agreed she would not run for reelection, seek future judicial office, or perform any judicial duties again without the Commission's express permission.