The Spokane County Public Defender's Office cannot represent anyone without first being appointed either by Spokane County Pre-Trial Services or by direct court appointment. Persons in custody will be seen by Pre-Trial Services to determine elegibility for appointment of counsel. Persons out of custody should follow the instructions below.
Applying for a Court Appointed Attorney
Applications for a Public Defender are taken at the Office of Pre-Trial Services. The process can be lengthy so we suggest that you contact the Children’s Waiting Room by calling 477-6815 to arrange for free childcare. The Children’s Waiting Room is located in the Broadway Centre Building at 1120 W Broadway (diagonally across from the Courthouse.)
You must apply in person - We encourage you to make application immediately after setting a court date. One of three determinations will be made at that time:
Appoint a Public Defender without fee
Appoint a Public Defender with a fee
Deny appointment of Public Defender (In most instances you have a right to appeal a denial, information will be provided to you.)
Where: Office of Pre-Trial Services
Second Floor of Public Safety Building (Go up the stairs and turn right)
1100 West Mallon
Spokane, WA 99260
Phone: 477-3960 Extension 4
When: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Documentation Needed
You may be asked to provide documentation of the following items:
Documentation of your status for assistance. Examples: AFDC Grant letter, Food Stamp Quest Card, Medical Coupon, Medicaid or SSI Grant letter.
Income Information
Current pay stubs
Spouse’s current pay stubs (only if you are charged with a crime where your spouse is not the victim)
For self employed - copy of last year’s income tax returns and income statements
Unemployment compensation
Documentation of any other income you receive that are reportable for federal tax purposes.
Basic Living Costs Information
Receipt for rent/mortgage
Current utility bills
Loan payments (Payments for car or truck/credit cards/consolidated debt/student loans etc)
Health care payments
Support payments or other court ordered obligations
Child Care Costs
NOTE: You must appear in court on the next scheduled court date whether or not you have met with your Public Defender.
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Applying for a Public Defender
