Gov. Jay Inslee announced that he is appointing Gretchen Leanderson to Pierce County Superior Court. Leanderson has served in the Washington State Office of the Attorney General since 1988 where she is currently the Division Chief of the Attorney General’s Tacoma Division.

“Gretchen has extensive experience working on all kinds of legal issues and a reputation for being a top-notch manager,” Inslee said. “Her experience inside and outside of the courtroom shows an ongoing commitment to serving the people of Pierce County with the highest level of professionalism.”

“Gretchen Leanderson is an excellent choice for Pierce County Superior Court Judge,” said Attorney General Bob Ferguson. “During her 26-year career at the Attorney General’s Office, Gretchen has been a defender of Washington workers, vulnerable adults and neglected and abused children. Throughout it all she was an invaluable part of our team. She will be an outstanding judge.”

Prior to serving as the Division Chief in Tacoma, Leanderson worked in the AG’s Labor and Industry Section, Torts Division and Social and Health Services Division. She graduated from the University of Washington before earning her law degree at the University of Puget Sound.

“We are all looking forward to having Gretchen join our court,” said Presiding Judge Ronald Culpepper. “She is a well-respected attorney known for her hard work, organization, and sound judgment. She will serve the people of Pierce County well.”

Leanderson is replacing Judge Thomas Felnagle who is retiring after 22 years of distinguished service on the Pierce County Superior Court.