News Releases
Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 21, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke appoints Stonier to Cowlitz County Superior Court judgeship

OLYMPIA - Gov. Gary Locke has appointed Cowlitz County Prosecuting Attorney James J. Stonier to that county's Superior Court bench.

Stonier ran unopposed for the seat. The appointment allows him to fill the vacant position this fall instead of waiting until January. He will replace Judge Randolph Furman, who resigned earlier this year.

"Jim has a strong history of public service. He has worked in the legal profession for almost 30 years and has been Cowlitz County's prosecuting attorney for the past six years" Locke said. "He knows the community well and I am confident he will be a strong addition to the bench."

"I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to appoint such a qualified candidate. Jim's strong legal background will allow him to make an immediate difference," the governor added.

Stonier is a graduate of the University of Washington School of Law. He also has a degree in labor law from New York University. Before becoming a prosecutor, he served for 21 years as a judge advocate in the United States Navy.

He also has served on several committees, including the Governor's Organized Crime Advisory Board and the Cowlitz County Youth Violence Prevention Council.

Stonier's appointment is effective November 1.

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