Defense Improvement Funds
Washington State offers grants to help cities and counties improve public defense services. These funds are used for real, measurable improvements.
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Cities can apply every two years through a competitive process.
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Counties that apply receive a pro-rata share of available state funding based on the formula and criteria in RCW 10.101.070.
More than $1 million is distributed annually by the Office of Public Defense.
Extraordinary Criminal Justice Costs
Chapter 43.330.190 RCW establishes a procedure for counties to request reimbursement for costs incurred in aggravated murder cases. Our office processes the petitions in consultation with the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys and the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, and submits a prioritized list of petitions that are recommended for funding to the Legislature.
Simple Possession Advocacy and Representation Program (SPAR)
Chapter 2.70.200 RCW authorizes OPD to reimburse localities for eligible public defense costs related to representation on simple drug possession or public use charges in courts of limited jurisdiction. Our Simple Possession Advocacy and Representation (SPAR) Program administers and disburses these funds.