Civil Commitment

RCW 71.09 

As required by state statute, OPD contracts with attorneys statewide to represent indigent respondents who have a right to legal counsel in civil commitment proceedings under Chapter 71.09 RCW.  

In accordance with statutes, court rules and court orders, OPD also administers payments for investigators, expert witnesses and other necessary professional services.

Additional Information:

• Billing Information

• Special Commitment Center   

• Reports
  • 2020 -Chapter 71.09 RCW Indigent Defense Representation Program [PDF]

  • 2019 -Chapter 71.09 RCW Indigent Defense Representation Program [PDF]

  • 2018 -Chapter 71.09 RCW Indigent Defense Representation Program [PDF]

RCW 10.77- NGRI 

Proposal for Administration of Defense Services For Indigent Persons Involved in Proceedings Under Chapter 10.77 RCW (Criminally Insane)

Pursuant to a proviso in the 2022 supplemental state operating budget, OPD developed a Proposal to provide indigent defense in post-commitment insanity acquittal cases under Chapter 10.77 RCW. If approved by the Legislature, OPD would contract with qualified attorneys to provide representation in ongoing legal proceedings for persons who are found “not guilty by reason of insanity” and committed to state psychiatric care.  View full proposal [PDF] 

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