Bellingham Municipal Court reports 33% increase in case loads for 2024

The Bellingham Municipal Court's state of the court address highlighted a significant increase in case filings and the ongoing challenges faced by the court system. Judge Deborah Lev and Commissioner Nicholas Henry presented a comprehensive overview during the City Council meeting on April 14, 2025, revealing that the court handled nearly 24,000 cases in 2024—a staggering 33% increase from the previous year.

Judge Lev emphasized the court's mission to administer justice effectively, noting that the caseload included serious offenses such as 392 DUIs and 355 domestic violence cases. The court's focus remains on prioritizing criminal hearings, which accounted for the majority of their time, while also addressing a notable rise in parking infractions, which have surged in recent years.

Commissioner Henry provided context on the types of charges processed, including misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors, and discussed the court's efforts to implement therapeutic courts aimed at rehabilitation rather than incarceration. These programs, such as the domestic violence and wellness courts, have shown promise in reducing recidivism by addressing underlying issues faced by offenders.

The court also reported a significant increase in individuals on probation, with an average of 630 monitored monthly, reflecting a 22% rise from 2023. This uptick in cases has led to calls for additional judicial resources, with Judge Lev advocating for a third judicial officer to manage the growing workload effectively.

In closing, the court officials expressed their commitment to improving community safety and justice while navigating the challenges posed by increased case numbers. They highlighted the need for more courtroom space and resources to ensure fair and timely hearings for all individuals involved in the judicial process.