VABAW Congratulates the Honorable Tam T. Bui - First Vietnamese American Elected to Washington State Court of Appeals

December 4, 2025

The Vietnamese-American Bar Association of Washington (VABAW) proudly congratulates Judge Tam T. Bui on her historic election to the Washington State Court of Appeals, Division I, District 2, on November 4, 2025.

Judge Bui's victory marks a momentous milestone in our state's legal history. She becomes the first Vietnamese American ever elected to the Washington State Court of Appeals—a testament to her exceptional qualifications, tireless dedication to justice, and the trust she has earned from voters across the region.

Judge Bui's journey to the appellate bench embodies the promise of the American dream. Arriving in Washington State as a child refugee on April 29, 1975—the day before the Fall of Saigon—she has devoted her life to public service and the pursuit of justice for all. A proud graduate of the University of Washington and Seattle University School of Law, she began her legal career as an appellate attorney at the Washington Appellate Defender Association, representing indigent clients before the very court she will now serve.

For nearly two decades, Judge Bui has served with distinction on the Snohomish County District Court bench, where she established the county's first Mental Health Court in 2012 and championed access to justice for all who appeared before her. Her commitment to community service is equally remarkable—from teaching civics to high school students at Jackson High School to mentoring law students and new judges at the Washington Judicial College.

The overwhelming support Judge Bui received from the legal community—including endorsements from over 150 Washington judges and seven of the nine Washington Supreme Court justices—reflects the profound respect she has earned throughout her career.

As VABAW celebrates its 20th anniversary and the Vietnamese-American community commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon, Judge Bui's election stands as a powerful reminder of how far our community has come. Her achievement inspires the next generation of Vietnamese-American lawyers and demonstrates that the doors to the highest levels of public service are open to those who pursue excellence with integrity and dedication.

VABAW extends its warmest congratulations to Judge Bui, her family, and all who supported her campaign. We look forward to her continued service to justice and the people of Washington State.

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The Vietnamese-American Bar Association of Washington (VABAW) was established in 2005 to provide mutual support for attorneys in the advancement of their careers and serve as a trusted guide for students aspiring to the legal profession.

For more information, visit www.vabaw.com.