On Thursday, April 3, 2025, the Washington State Supreme Court announced the briefing schedule for the case involving the suspension of Bremerton Municipal Court Judge Tracy S. Flood. The Court received the case record from the Commission on Judicial Conduct on April 2, 2025, and detailed the timeline for the submission of legal documents by the involved parties.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Judge Tracy S. Flood,” with case number 202239-1.
The Court has directed that Judge Flood must file and serve her opening brief by May 2, 2025. Following this, the Commission on Judicial Conduct is required to submit its brief within 30 days of receiving the Appellant’s brief. Judge Flood will then have an additional 30 days to file a reply brief after the Respondent’s submission.
This case arises from serious allegations against Judge Flood, who was suspended from her judicial position on January 17, 2025, after findings of unprofessional conduct toward court staff. The Washington State Commission on Judicial Conduct has also recommended her removal from the bench. The ongoing proceedings stem from complaints that date back to 2023, alleging that Judge Flood created a hostile work environment characterized by disrespectful and condescending treatment of her staff.
The disciplinary action against Judge Flood followed a lengthy investigation that revealed multiple violations of judicial conduct codes. The allegations included significant mismanagement within her court, including delays in court operations and improper handling of court funds. The commission noted the adverse impact of her actions on court personnel and operations, which included a notable turnover among court staff.
As part of the Court’s process, a date for oral arguments will be established, likely scheduled for the fall term of the Court, depending on the timing of the briefs’ submissions. This indicates the Court’s intent to address the matter with urgency, given the implications for judicial integrity and the proper functioning of the municipal court.
The Supreme Court’s decision to establish a briefing schedule underscores the importance of addressing the allegations against Judge Flood thoroughly and transparently. It reflects the judiciary’s commitment to uphold the standards of conduct expected from its members and to maintain public confidence in the judicial system.
The situation surrounding Judge Flood has drawn significant attention, particularly as she was noted for her historic election in 2021 as the first Black woman to serve as a judge in Kitsap County. However, the recent findings by the Commission on Judicial Conduct have raised serious concerns about her qualifications to continue in her role.
Legal representatives for Judge Flood have been vocal in their defense, suggesting that the backlash she has faced may be influenced by racial bias, arguing that her staff’s complaints are rooted in discomfort with her leadership as a Black woman. Despite these claims, the commission found no substantial evidence supporting the argument that her race played a role in the complaints against her conduct.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
