Seattle-Tacoma Judges Largely Forego Gavel Use, Study Finds
The Stranger newspaper explored the surprising reality that judges in Seattle-Tacoma's court system, including the Washington State Supreme Court, rarely, if ever, use gavels. Contrary to popular depiction in media, judges reportedly prefer to maintain courtroom order through speaking softly,…
Seattle Tacoma, WA, August 3, 2026 —
Contrary to dramatic portrayals in film and television, judges in the Seattle-Tacoma court system, including those on the Washington State Supreme Court, seldom, if ever, employ gavels during proceedings. An exploration by The Stranger newspaper reveals that the common image of a judge pounding a gavel to command attention or restore order is largely a media fabrication.
The study indicates that judges in these courts primarily rely on a more subdued approach to maintaining decorum. Instead of a forceful rap of a gavel, judicial officers reportedly find that speaking softly is a more effective method for controlling the courtroom environment. In instances where a gavel is used, it is typically the bailiff who wields it, not the judge.
Despite the lack of practical use in daily court sessions, many judges do possess gavels. These instruments are often ceremonial in nature, acquired as gifts or collected over time. While these gavels may be displayed in chambers or on benches, they are not part of the active judicial process.
This finding highlights a disconnect between the public’s perception of courtroom procedure, heavily influenced by media depictions, and the actual practices employed by legal professionals in the region. The traditional symbol of judicial authority, the gavel, appears to be largely ornamental rather than functional in the Seattle-Tacoma judicial landscape.
Story summarized from the original created by Vivian McCall on www.thestranger.com, see more information here.
