Published September 30 2025
Community invited to learn about new therapeutic court held at the Bellevue Library
To build stronger and safer communities and help prevent repeated criminal behavior, King County District Court , the City of Bellevue and the King County Library System’s Bellevue Library are collaborating to implement a community court in Bellevue. The three agencies will hold a grand opening for the court Tuesday, Oct. 7, 1- 2:30 p.m. at the Bellevue Library (1111 110th Ave. NE).
Bellevue Community Court is an alternative court for eligible, non-violent, less serious (misdemeanor) cases. It works to identify and address the underlying challenges people face that often contribute to criminal activity. The goal is to hold them accountable, while helping them improve their personal situations and become productive community members. Other King County District Court community courts operate in Auburn, Redmond and Shoreline-Kenmore.
Bellevue Community Court is held Tuesdays 2–4 p.m. at the Bellevue Library. A new Bellevue Community Resource Center is collocated with Community Court to enable participants and others to access multiple services – such as mental health and substance-use counseling and job search assistance – all in one place.
“Like traditional court, Community Court has a judge, a prosecutor and a defense attorney,” said King County District Court Judge Lisa O’Toole, who presides over Bellevue Community Court. “An assessment is conducted of the facts of each non-violent case, and the circumstances of the person who has been charged, to identify their life challenges and strengths. Community Court holds people accountable for their actions, while also providing them the tools to improve their lives, give back to the community and restore their relationship with the community.”
“Community Court is about removing barriers and improving outcomes,” said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson. “Participants are supported with accountability and resources to address their underlying needs and reduce recidivism.”
"Libraries connect communities to essential resources, empowering individuals through self-directed learning and support,” said Heidi Daniel, King County Library System executive director. “KCLS is proud to work with King County District Court and our partners at the City of Bellevue to expand access and create positive change in our region."
Community members who would like to volunteer to help at community court or at the resource center can contact court coordinator Andrew Lorenzen (alorenzen@kingcounty.gov).
This is a joint news release from the City of Bellevue, King County District Court and the King County Library System.