Oregonians will soon be able to turn to one of the state’s most experienced judges when they have concerns about their experiences in the court system.
The Oregon Judicial Department announced last week that Judge Debra K. Vogt of the Lane County Circuit Court will serve as the agency’s first ombudsman beginning in August. In that role, she’ll accept and respond to public comments “regarding court experiences” and provide mentoring and education to judges, according to an agency news release. Her position will serve as a neutral third-party who can review concerns about a judge’s conduct in court and answer questions from people who use the court’s services.
“It’s been an incredible privilege to serve my community as a judge in the Lane County Circuit Court,” Vogt said in a statement. “I’m honored to have been selected for this unique opportunity to work with the public and the judicial conference. As ombudsman, I look forward to working on behalf of Oregonians to ensure everyone has access to fair and impartial justice.”
Other Oregon agencies have similar watchdog roles that allow the independent official to help Oregonians file grievances with public bodies. The Oregon Judicial Department’s position results from a 2025 state law that required the creation of the Office of the Ombudsman while increasing judges’ salaries. Lawmakers framed the law as a way to support accountability within the justice system…