He became a Judge of the Superior Court of Whatcom County, Washington in 1901.

[1] Neterer received a recess appointment from President Woodrow Wilson on March 4, 1913, to a seat on the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington vacated by Judge Clinton Woodbury Howard.

He was nominated to the same position by President Wilson on July 2, 1913.

He was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 21, 1913, and received his commission the same day.

His service terminated on February 2, 1943, due to his death.