Harry S. Steinmetz is a seasoned attorney, former judge, and dedicated public servant with more than three decades of legal and community leadership experience. He is running for King County District Court to bring integrity, fairness, and a deep understanding of the law to the bench.
Harry S. Steinmetz
Candidate for King County District Court Judge, Southwest Division, Position 4
Phone:
+1 (206) 387-1333
Email:
Address:
PO Box 98163, Des Moines, WA. 98198
EXPERIENCE
Over a 36-year legal career, Harry has built a broad and balanced background across multiple areas of the justice system. He has served as a criminal defense attorney, representing individuals facing serious charges and ensuring their constitutional rights were protected. He has also worked as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, giving him insight into the responsibilities of the state in pursuing justice. This dual perspective has shaped his commitment to fairness and impartial decision-making.
Harry’s judicial experience includes serving as an Administrative Law Judge with the Washington State Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals, where he presided over hearings, managed complex caseloads, and issued well-reasoned decisions in workers’ compensation cases. He has also served as a Judge Pro Tem, further demonstrating his readiness to serve on the bench with professionalism and sound judgment.
In addition to his legal career, Harry has a strong record of public service. As Deputy Mayor and City Councilmember for Des Moines, he worked on public safety, municipal budgeting, and long-term policy planning. His time in elected office strengthened his understanding of how legal decisions affect communities, families, and local government.
Harry also brings experience from working behind the scenes in government, including serving as an Investigator for the Commission on Judicial Conduct and as a Staff Attorney to the Washington State Senate Judiciary Committee. These roles gave him valuable insight into judicial ethics, accountability, and the legislative process.
EDUCATION
A graduate of Santa Clara University School of Law, Harry has remained committed to the legal profession through bar association involvement and ongoing professional development.
Harry is running for King County District Court because he believes the court plays a critical role in everyday life. From traffic infractions and misdemeanors to civil disputes and protection orders, District Court is often the public’s first interaction with the justice system. Harry is committed to ensuring that every person who enters the courtroom is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
His campaign is grounded in the belief that justice requires both legal expertise and an understanding of the real-world impact of judicial decisions. With experience on both sides of the courtroom, on the bench, and in elected office, Harry Steinmetz is prepared to serve the people of King County with integrity, accountability, and sound judgment.
ENDORSEMENTS
State Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove
State Senator Tina Orwall, 33rd Legislative District
King County District Court Judge Matt York
King County District Court Judge Lisa O’Toole
Pierce County District Court Kevin McCann
Pierce County Superior Court Phil Thornton
Pierce County Superior Court Tom Quinlan
Des Moines City Council Member Pierre Blosse
Former Des Moines Mayor Traci Buxton
Former Des Moines Mayor Matt Mahoney
King County District Court Judge Kirstin Shotwell
King County District Court Judge Brian Todd
Seattle Municipal Court Judge Faye R. Chess