Senator Usher confirms Judge Ashley Harada for Judicial Standards Commission

In a pivotal meeting of the Montana Senate Judiciary Committee on March 3, 2025, the confirmation of Judge Ashley Harada to the Judicial Standards Commission took center stage. Senator Barry Usher, representing Senate District 19, introduced the resolution, highlighting the vacancy left by Judge Spalding's retirement. Usher expressed strong support for Harada, noting her fairness and impartiality on the bench, qualities that have earned her admiration in Yellowstone County.

Judge Harada, who has served as a district court judge for nearly seven years, shared her background with the committee. Raised in Montana and a graduate of the University of Montana School of Law, she has extensive experience, including clerking for federal judges and managing a treatment court in Yellowstone County. Harada emphasized her commitment to serving the community and her desire to bring transparency and improvement to the Judicial Standards Commission.

Support for Harada's confirmation came from various proponents, including Chief Justice Corey Swanson, who underscored the importance of filling the commission's vacancy promptly. Swanson praised Harada's willingness to take on the extra duties associated with the role, which involves addressing ethical complaints against judges statewide.

Representative Carrie Seekins Crow, who chaired the search committee for the position, also voiced her support, commending Harada's dedication and community involvement. Bruce Spencer from the State Bar of Montana echoed these sentiments, expressing confidence in Harada's ability to contribute positively to the commission.

During the meeting, Harada addressed questions regarding her vision for the commission, advocating for clearer processes and greater transparency. She acknowledged the challenges faced by judges and the need for a respectful approach when handling complaints, emphasizing that all judges are human and capable of mistakes.

As the committee deliberated, the discussions highlighted the critical role of the Judicial Standards Commission in maintaining the integrity of Montana's judicial system. With Harada's confirmation pending, the meeting underscored the importance of leadership and accountability within the state's judiciary, setting the stage for potential reforms aimed at enhancing public trust in the legal system.