EXPERIENCE & LEADERSHIP

Judge McDowall began serving as a Judge Pro Tempore in 2013, presiding in Seattle Municipal Court, King County District Court, and King County Superior Court (Juvenile Division). As a Pro Tem Judge, she handled a wide range of cases and served in specialty courts, including Mental Health Court, Community Court, and Veterans Court, strengthening her ability to navigate complex cases with care and sound judgment.

In 2020, she was appointed as a full-time Judge on the Seattle Municipal Court.

Since joining the bench, Judge McDowall has earned the respect of attorneys, colleagues, and court staff for her preparation, diligence, and collaborative leadership. She has played an active role in court reform efforts, including:

• Advancing equity-focused reforms to reduce bias in court processes

• Helping modernize court operations and improve access to justice

• Working collaboratively with judges, staff, and stakeholders to strengthen public trust in the courts

Her work reflects a careful balance of legal rigor, practical experience, and compassion.

EXPANDING ACCESS TO JUSTICE

Judge McDowall believes that courts must work for everyone—not just those who understand the legal system or can afford representation. Throughout her career, she has focused on making the justice system more accessible, transparent, and fair for the people who rely on it.

As a judge, she works to ensure that everyone who enters her courtroom is treated with dignity and respect, and that court proceedings are clear and understandable. She prioritizes plain language from the bench, careful explanation of rights and procedures, and thoughtful consideration of the circumstances people bring into the courtroom.

Judge McDowall has also supported efforts within the court to modernize systems, improve access to information, and strengthen specialty courts that address underlying issues such as mental health, substance use, and veterans’ needs. These approaches help connect people to resources while maintaining accountability under the law.

Her commitment to access to justice reflects a simple principle: the legal system should serve the public—and it should be understandable, fair, and accessible to everyone.

DEDICATED TO SERVICE

In 1997, Judge McDowall moved to Seattle to join the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, where she served for more than a decade, ultimately as a Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney. She prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases at every level of Washington’s court system and handled complex appellate matters, including two cases before the Washington State Supreme Court.

During this time, she developed a deep understanding of how legal systems affect real people—and saw firsthand the inequities embedded in the criminal justice system. That experience shaped her commitment to fairness, integrity, and respect for everyone who enters a courtroom.

COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY

Outside the courtroom, Judge McDowall has long been engaged in community service—especially efforts that support children, families, and equity.

She was a founding member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at Our Lady of Fatima Parish School, working with parents, educators, and administrators to promote inclusive policies and curriculum. She volunteered for more than a decade as a Religious Education Catechist, teaching first-grade students, and has been an active supporter of women’s and children’s charities through Magnolia Moms.

Judge McDowall also served on the Board of Directors of Magnolia Little League, leading the softball division from 2013–2017. Under her leadership, participation nearly tripled. In recognition of that work, she was named Little League International Softball Volunteer of the Year.

ROOTED IN SEATTLE

Judge McDowall has lived in Seattle since 1997. She and her husband are raising four children here and remain deeply connected to the community she serves.