| Press Release |
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| October 9, 2006 |
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Martha Walters sworn in to Oregon Supreme Court
Walters is an exceptional replacement, says Governor Kulongoski
Salem, Oregon —Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski today praised Martha Lee Walters at her Oregon State Supreme Court investiture.
"Ms. Walters is a passionate and dedicated lawyer with an intense intellectual interest in the law. She has a broad spectrum of experience representing individuals, small businesses and government," the Governor said. "She comes to this position with a keen intellect, ideal temperament and an outstanding reputation in the legal community."
Walters fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice R. William Riggs.
Walters graduated from the University of Oregon School of Law in 1977 and has nearly 30 years' experience in civil litigation, labor law and municipal law in Lane County. She served as President of Walters Chanti & Zennache Attorneys at Law in Eugene, Oregon prior to her appointment.
Walters also chairs the Executive Committee of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws, a prestigious body that works with states to draft legislation providing legal clarity, uniformity and consistency among the states. Walters was originally appointed in 1992 by Governor Barbara Roberts to represent Oregon in the Conference.
A member of the Oregon Law Commission, Walters received the Public Justice Award from the Oregon Trial Lawyers Association.
Walters is widely acclaimed for her representation of disabled professional golfer Casey Martin in his lawsuit against the PGA Tour over the Tour's refusal to allow Martin to use a golf cart. The case went to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that federal law required the PGA to accommodate Martin by allowing him to ride a golf cart.
"Ms. Walters is an outstanding legal analyst who comes from a unique background, and we are lucky to have her serve on the court," the Governor said. "She is a real person who has a sense of what is happening on the ground, and she cares deeply about Oregon, the laws and the people. She has a unique blend of brilliant intellect and deep, down-to-earth compassion for individuals. I am also very pleased to appoint a woman to the Oregon Supreme Court. It is important to have judges of varied backgrounds and experiences. We need to continue to strive to diversify both the bar and bench in Oregon so they better reflect the population they serve."
Walters resides in the Eugene area and is married with two grown children.
Media Contacts:
Lonn Hoklin: 503.378.6169
Charlie Burr: 503.378.6496
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