Monasmith to fill Superior Court vacancy

October 5, 2011

Gov. Chris Gregoire announced on Monday that she will appoint Patrick Monasmith to the Superior Court serving Stevens, Pend Oreille and Ferry counties. Monasmith is a former court commissioner for Stevens County, and has extensive experience in private practice.
He will fill the judgeship being vacated by the retirement of Rebecca Baker.
“Patrick’s broad legal background is exactly what is necessary to effectively serve as Superior Court judge,” Gregoire said. “I welcome Patrick to this position, and know those he works with will appreciate and respect his passion to serve the community.”
“I am deeply honored by this appointment, and humbled by the confidence placed in me by Gov. Gregoire and my peers,” said Monasmith. “It will be my great privilege to serve the citizens of the Tri-Counties as their next Superior Court judge."
Monasmith graduated from Colville High School. He later earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho before graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law.
He began his legal career in 1984, when he became a staff attorney with the Spokane County Public Defender Office. Two years later he joined the practice of Goicoechea Law Office before joining O’Neal & Delaney, P.S. as an associate. In 1989, Monasmith formed the firm of Skok & Monasmith, P.S. in Chewelah, where he has practiced law for more than 20 years.
“Patrick Monasmith’s proven temperament, his breadth of experience and his energy make him an ideal fit for the demands of our tri-county judicial district,” Baker said.
“Mr. Monasmith will show strong leadership,” said fellow Superior Court Judge Allen Nielson. “I look forward to working with him.”