Legal/Judicial Experience: Pro Tem Commissioner, Lewis County Superior Court; Pro Tem Judge, Centralia Municipal Court; Lewis County Public Defense, October 2014-present;  Attorney, Lewis County Family Treatment Court, November 2014-present; Lewis County Deputy Prosecutor, July 2008-September 2014; Keith S. Douglass and Associates, Spokane, June 1999-January 2003.   

Other Professional Experience: Special Agent, Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), January 2003-June 2007.  

Education: Gonzaga University School of Law, J.D., June 1998-May 2001. University of Washington, September 1993-March 1998.  

Community Service: Relay for life, R.E. Bennett Elementary Mock Trial, Legal Aid, Drug Court Community Give Back, Member of Chehalis Rotary.

Statement: With well-balanced experience dedicated to public service as a Special Agent, Deputy Prosecutor and Public Defender, Joely O’Rourke is the right choice for Lewis County Superior Court Judge, Pos. 3. Known for her level temperament and ability to be thorough and fair, Joely has already sat as Pro Tem Commissioner in Lewis County Superior Court and Pro Tem Judge in Centralia Municipal Court. Joely is a native Washingtonian, and resides in Chehalis with her husband, Shane O’Rourke, and their son. Shane is also a local attorney and partner in Centralia Law Firm, Buzzard O’Rourke.

Following the tragic events of 9/11, Joely was drawn to a position with NCIS, where she felt she could serve her country. As a Deputy Prosecutor with Lewis County, Joely handled some of the most serious cases and assured offenders were held accountable. As a Public Defender, Joely is responsible for protecting the constitutional rights of those charged with criminal offenses.

Joely has served our community with Integrity. As a Superior Court Judge, she will continue to dedicate her career to public service. She will always uphold the Constitution, and ensure due process and fairness for all citizens of Lewis County.