Hendrickson receives justice award

Wahkiakum District Court Administrator Kristy Hendrickson received the Washington Courts Innovating Justice Award for dedicated work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Wahkiakum County lacks broadband internet in most areas, so it was challenging to establish remote operations. Ms. Hendrickson set up remote options for people who otherwise lacked them, worked with stakeholders to add dockets to clear caseload backlogs, and developed new procedures for interpreter access, access to counsel at hearings, and digital exhibit exchange.

The office employs just four persons, including the judge. Two were medically required to work off-site for nearly a year; the other transferred to another court, leaving Ms. Hendrickson as the only person on site for several months. She arranged secure daily exchange of paper files.

The Washington State Board of Judicial Administration recognized this dedicated Court Administrator who for more than a year kept Wahkiakum District Court functioning smoothly amid significant challenges. In a ceremony held May 21, Washington State Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven González thanked Ms. Hendrickson for her efforts in ensuring access to justice. Ms. Hendrickson told Justice González it was an honor to have been selected, and immediately returned to her office to thank other staff for the team effort she said resulted in the award.