Mary Butler (Partner-Seattle, WA) has been appointed by the Governor of Washington to the Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings’ Tort Study Committee, effective June 1, 2026. The Tort Study Committee is charged with evaluating Washington's civil justice system for tort claims brought against the state and its officers, employees, and volunteers acting in their official capacities. The committee will develop recommendations to improve the state's processes, with an emphasis on efficiency, transparency, and accountability to its people.
In notifying Mary of her appointment, the Governor recognized the committee's important role in examining the state's civil justice system. He noted that Mary's expertise and leadership would be instrumental in advancing its work. She indeed brings significant leadership experience to this role, currently serving on the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers Board of Directors, and having served as past president of the Puget Sound Marine Claims Association, among other positions.
“Washington's civil justice system touches people, public agencies, and communities in moments that often matter deeply. I am honored to bring my experience representing local agencies and public employees, among others, to this important work, and I look forward to helping develop practical, balanced recommendations that promote fairness, strengthen public trust, and ensure the system works with integrity for all Washingtonians.”