Industrial Appeals Judge and former Deputy Prosecutor Neil Horibe is running for Pierce County District Court

For immediate release: 3/1/26

Neil Horibe, a current Industrial Appeals Judge and Pierce County District Court Judge pro tem announced his campaign for the open District Court Judge Pos 4. In the announcement, retiring Judge Lloyd Oaks declared his endorsement for Neil, citing his breadth of legal and judicial experience and knowledge of the law.

“Our District Court is the Court with which most Pierce County residents have contact. The Court implements the Rule of Law. People have a right to feel safe, and have a full and fair hearing in the courtroom. Neil has the experience and judicial temperament to do just that.”

Along with the sitting judge’s support, Neil has already earned the endorsement of 15 other Pierce County Judges including fellow District Court Judges Lineberry, McCann, Sussman, and Buttorff.

As an Industrial Appeals Judge, Neil presides over cases involving workplace injuries and workplace safety violations. Neil also served our community for 13 years as a Pierce County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney where he prosecuted some of the most dangerous criminals for murder, human trafficking, and child sexual assault. Part of this work included prosecuting domestic violence abusers in collaboration with the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center.

Neil is a committed community volunteer, having spent hundreds, if not thousands, of hours as a Reserve Police Officer protecting the community and participating in activities like National Night Out. Neil has also supported the YMCA High School Mock Trial competition for multiple years as a coach and a judge.

“I promise to always listen carefully, rule based on the law and the facts of the case, and to treat every person with dignity and respect. I humbly ask for your vote.”