The Lewis County Public Defense Office is currently accepting applications from qualified attorneys to provide public defense services for individuals who are financially unable to retain private counsel.
Openings are available for public defenders and conflict attorneys in Lewis County Superior Court, District Court and Juvenile Court.
Lewis County Public Defense provides legal representation in felony and misdemeanor criminal, probation violation and juvenile offender cases for individuals who meet the financial eligibility requirements under RCW 10.101. Attorneys appointed through this program play a vital role in ensuring the constitutional rights of indigent defendants are protected.
Qualifications include:
• A current license to practice law in Washington state.
• Prior experience in criminal law.
• A minimum of one year in criminal trial experience.
• Compliance with the Washington state Indigent Defense Standards.
• Ability to ensure continuity of representation, provide timely communication and manage caseload effectively.
• Contractors must carry liability and errors & omissions insurance with a minimum of $500,000 per occurrence or claim.
Compensation for district court public defense attorneys is listed at $440 per case, while superior court attorneys make $1,000 per case and juvenile court attorneys bring in $400 per case. Conflict attorneys are compensated at an hourly rate dependent on qualifications.
Interested attorneys should submit a resumé detailing relevant legal experience; contact information for three professional references; a brief statement describing their approach to public defense, case management structure and availability; and proof of required insurance coverage.
Applicants can submit their application via email to public.defense@lewiscountywa.gov and are encouraged to specify in the subject line whether they are applying as a public defender or conflict attorney.
Applicants must be prepared to represent clients from appointment through all case phases, including trial, sentencing and appeals, as applicable. Selected candidates may be interviewed as part of the evaluation process. Lewis County reserves the right to reject any or all applications.
For more information, visit https://lewiscountywa.gov/departments/public-defense/.
