Public Defense Program

Mission Statement and Purpose

The City of Vancouver provides contracted public defense attorneys to qualifying individuals who are charged with misdemeanor crimes within the city limits. This Public Defense program promotes justice and equity for these people by providing legal counsel who advocate for their objectives, interests and dignity.

For Defendants and Those Charged with a Misdemeanor within the City of Vancouver

How do I apply for a Public Defender?

Qualifying

Individuals who want an attorney appointed must financially qualify pursuant to Washington state statute. Clark County courts determine whether a person qualifies for the appointment of an attorney at the City’s expense. A financial statement will be completed when the person first appears in court. The judge then decides whether to appoint an attorney. If an attorney is appointed, the judge may order the defendant to repay some or all of the public defense cost at the conclusion of the case.

A person wanting assigned legal council must provide the court staff income, debt, and asset (house, vehicle, pension) information at his or her first court appearance (which comes after the initial arraignment). This should include bringing the following income information to court to assist in screening for eligibility for appointment of an attorney, if possible: wage slips, including spouse’s wage slips if married; proof of eligibility for food stamps, Social Security, unemployment or other government benefits; and bank account balance(s).

Representation

The City contracts with private Attorneys to provide City public defense services. These attorneys can only represent a person if a judge appoints them to a case.

The City’s mission is to ensure effective and cost-efficient legal representation is available to persons who are eligible for court-appointed counsel, consistent with the Washington and United States Constitutions, laws, and state standards of justice.

Clients of indigent defense attorneys who have concerns or complaints about City contracted attorney representation are encouraged to complete a Client Complaint Form. For time-sensitive matters, please email: PublicDefense@cityofvancouver.us

Indigent Defense Program Client Complaint Form Update 4-26

Contracting as a Public Defense Attorney with the City of Vancouver

Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Public Defense Attorney Services

The City of Vancouver is seeking qualified attorneys to provide professional public defense services for indigent individuals charged with misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses in district court.

Scope of Services

Selected contractors will be responsible for providing comprehensive legal representation, including but not limited to:

Client consultation and case evaluation
Court appearances and trial representation
Legal research, motion practice, and negotiations
Ensuring compliance with constitutional, statutory, and City and Washington State Bar Association standards for indigent defense.

Minimum Qualifications

Active membership in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association, which may be through reciprocity from Oregon
Demonstrated experience in criminal defense, particularly in municipal or district court
Familiarity with City/WSBA indigent defense standards
Ability to manage caseloads in compliance with state guidelines

Contract Terms

The City anticipates awarding contracts with a term of two years with options to extend, with compensation structured as $500/case, or $1,000 if it requires a trial.

Submission Requirements

Interested applicants must submit:

Letter of interest
Resume
Description of relevant experience
References

Deadline for Submission

Ongoing recruitment

Submission Method

Please submit materials to: Katherine.Kelly@cityofvancouver.us

The City of Vancouver is an equal opportunity contractor and encourages applications from diverse and historically underrepresented legal professionals.