Featured News

  • Jan 27, 2025

    Applications for the Criminal Defense Training Academy are due February 18th, 2025. CDTA is designed for newer lawyers but is open to anyone who practices public defense in Washington. To apply for CDTA, follow this link.

  • Full Court Press
    Dec 1, 2024
    Awareness of the Blake decision and relief opportunities is growing in-state and across state borders, through grassroots community efforts. These dedicated outreach efforts between the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), the Office of Public Defense (OPD), courts and legal aid groups have been instrumental in raising awareness, and we're just getting started.
  • Lady Justice statue and law books- stock image.
    Nov 26, 2024
    As directed by the Washington Legislature, the Office of Public Defense reports on its implementation of SB 5046. This report identifies systemic barriers and recommends reforms to improve access to justice through the personal restraint petition (PRP) process.

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Larry Jefferson - Director
Larry Jefferson

From the Director

The Office of Public Defense believes in providing justice through service to our community, prioritizing equity and excellence in all we do. Ensuring justice means embracing a multidisciplinary approach to providing public defense services, ensuring that each individual is met where they are at with the help they need in their case. 

This core value propels our team of dedicated advocates to address the far-reaching causes and consequences of justice involvement. We are dedicated to collaborating across disciplines, pooling diverse expertise and perspectives to accomplish our mission.

We want to extend our sincerest gratitude to our partners and supporters, who are integral to our efforts to break down the barriers that stand in the way of access to justice for all. Together, we can champion a system that ensures justice for every individual, family, and community in the State of Washington.

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