Josh was raised in the Pacific Northwest, growing up in the greater Seattle-Tacoma area, before graduation from Decatur High School in Federal Way Washington.  He attended both Gonzaga University and Central Washington University for undergraduate studies and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science in 2002.  From 2002-2005 he found his way back to Gonzaga University to obtain his Law Degree and graduated with honors before moving to Longview Washington to begin his legal career.

In Longview Josh got his start with the County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office before moving to Walstead Mertsching in 2006. While an associate there he handled general civil cases and unlawful detainer actions.  After a short period of time he decided that he wanted more experience in the courtroom and to hone his jury trial skills so he moved on to the County Office of Public Defense. As a public defender Josh handled all manner of criminal cases in every court in Cowlitz County, representing indigent defendants charged with everything from DUI to serious felony matters.  His dogged determination and willingness to try cases resulted in numerous acquittals on serious cases including high level domestic violence assault charges, kidnapping charges, and rape charges, saving clients decades in prison for crimes they didn’t commit.

In addition Josh makes Longview his home. He lives here with his wife of ten years and his three children.  He attends church here as a member of Calvary Community Church and previously served on their trustee board and as a volunteer in their youth ministries programs.