Benton County Circuit Court Judge Joan Demarest has announced she will not seek re-election next year. Her current term expires Jan. 4, 2027.
Judge Demarest said, “It has been an honor to serve the people of Benton County. In the final months of my term, in addition to my regular duties, I will focus on advancing our new Adult Treatment Court, which starts January 14, 2026.”
Demarest was appointed in 2019 by then-Governor Kate Brown to fill the vacancy created by Judge David Connell’s retirement. She was elected to the position in 2020.
Demarest sees Adult Treatment Court, and most experts agree, as a problem-solving court designed to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior—most often substance use disorders. Participants receive structured, evidence-based treatment, close judicial oversight, and accountability as an alternative to traditional punitive measures. The goal of Treatment Courts is to help participants develop tools to address other factors that contribute to criminal behavior such as housing, mental health, education, and employment.
“Our community has really pulled together to make this happen, and I am especially grateful to the County Commissioners, the Sheriff, and the District Attorney for their commitment and teamwork. Cultivating community partnerships and careful observance of best practices will keep ATC going strong into the future.”
Electing a new Judge
The filing deadline for candidates for Benton County Circuit Court Judge Position 3 is March 10, 2026. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, residents of Oregon, members of the Oregon State Bar, and must be residents of or have their principal office in the 21st judicial district, Benton County, or an adjacent judicial district. The election will be held in May 2026, and if no candidate receives more than 50% of the votes, there will be a runoff in the November 2026 general election.
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