Governor Jay Inslee today announced the appointment of Brian Coughenour to the Clallam County Superior Court. Coughenour is currently the court’s commissioner and a Chief Judge for the Lower Elwha Clallam Tribe. He has served in both roles since 2001.
“Brian has served Clallam County in various roles for nearly 40 years, his dedication to the community is evident,” Inslee said. “His work ethic and commitment to the law will make him an excellent addition to the bench.”
Prior to his work as a commissioner and tribal judge, Coughenour was a solo practitioner in Port Angeles focusing on criminal, civil and family law work. Coughenour received his law degree from the University of Pittsburg Law School in 1975 and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Thiel College in 1972.
Coughenour will replace retiring Judge George L. Wood, who has served on the court with distinction since 1983. Coughenour’s appointment will take effect on June 1, 2015.