New judge to preside over Superior Court

RITZVILLE – A new judge will be presiding the Adams County Superior Court beginning with the new year.

On Thursday, Dec. 14, Gov. Jay Inslee appointed K. Peter Palubicki to the bench, effective Jan. 1.

He replaces Judge Steve Dixon, who is retiring Dec. 31.

Palubicki is currently the Adams County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office chief deputy prosecuting attorney, a position he has held since 2017.

As chief deputy prosecuting attorney, Palubicki handles the most serious felonies in Adams County, the governor said is in appointment announcement. Throughout his career, Palubicki has served communities throughout Washington as a deputy prosecuting attorney, including Stevens and San Juan counties.

As the founder of Adams County Law Day in 2018, Palubicki has led ongoing efforts to encourage young students to take an interest in the law and to become more informed about their constitutional rights.

At the event, students gain a positive courthouse experience by participating in a mock trial. The program has grown into an annual multi-day event.

“Peter Palubicki is highly regarded and well prepared to serve the Adams County community in this role,” Inslee said. “I’m pleased that he will bring his work ethic, compassion and skills to the Adams County Superior Court bench.”

Palubicki earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Washington and law degree from the University of Washington School of Law.