Triplet named to Superior Court

Spokane County Court Commissioner James Triplet had to keep the secret all Sunday night: He’d been chosen by Gov. Chris Gregoire to replace Neal Rielly as Superior Court judge.

“She swore me to secrecy until she could make the announcement,” Triplet said of the governor. “It’s both an honor and a privilege to get this appointment.”

Gregoire picked Triplet over fellow finalists Mark Vovos, a prominent defense attorney, and former Spokane Mayor Dennis Hession.

“There was some stiff competition out there,” Triplet said. “I’ve been a full-time court commissioner since 2004, so I feel I’m prepared for the next step in my career.”

Gregoire said Triplet will bring innovation to the court: “As commissioner, he continually worked to provide understanding and accessibility to the general public regarding our court system.”