Judge Joe Burrowes has been appointed to fill a vacant seat with the Board of Governors for the Washington State District and Municipal Court Judges' Association.

Burrowes is the presiding judge for Benton County District Court. He has been on the bench since 2007.

In a news release to the Herald, Burrowes said he is honored to receive the appointment and looks forward to serving on the board to further promote access to justice and the public's right to experience fair and impartial courts.

Burrowes also serves as co-chairman of the Judicial Education Committee and the Washington State Bar Association Rules Committee.