Judge Diana Ruff announced on Jan. 23 that she will resign effective June 30, 2026. Her departure creates a vacancy the governor will fill by appointment.
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Gov. Bob Ferguson is seeking applicants to fill an upcoming vacancy on the Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Court.
Judge Diana Ruff announced on Jan. 23 that she will resign effective June 30, 2026. Her departure creates a vacancy the governor will fill by appointment.
Ruff has served on the bicounty Superior Court since 2022. Former Gov. Jay Inslee appointed her to replace a retiring judge.
Background on Judge Diana Ruff
Ruff earned her Juris Doctor from Gonzaga University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and journalism. Before joining the Superior Court bench, Ruff worked as a superior court commissioner. She handled family law, probate, guardianship and juvenile cases.
Earlier in her career, Ruff spent more than five years as a deputy prosecuting attorney in Benton County. She also practiced civil litigation with a local law firm.
Application Process
The governor’s office is accepting applications from qualified members of the Washington State Bar Association.
Applicants must submit the Uniform Judicial Evaluation Questionnaire. The form is available through the governor’s judicial appointments portal.
Applicants must also provide a resume of no more than three pages, an information waiver and at least two letters of recommendation.
Bar Ratings Encouraged
The governor’s office strongly encourages applicants to seek ratings from their judicial district bar association. Officials also encourage submissions from statewide affinity bar associations.
Applicants may submit ratings after filing their applications. The governor’s office recommends sending them as soon as possible.
Deadline Set for March 9
Applicants must submit all required materials by Monday, March 9, 2026.
The appointed judge will take office after Ruff leaves the bench at the end of June.
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