Tools for Measuring Caseloads Under the Washington Supreme Court’s Caseload Limits
Calculating compliance with the WA Supreme Court’s caseload limits can be complex—especially when attorneys manage a mix of case types or regularly cover attorney-of-the-day calendars. These Excel calculators are optional tools created by OPD to help simplify that process.
Disclaimer:
These calculators are based on the previous caseload standards adopted by the Washington Supreme Court in 2012.
OPD is developing new resources that reflect the updated court rule changes. Updated tools will be posted when available.
Mixed Criminal / Juvenile Caseloads ▼
Mixed Caseloads including Dependencies ▼
Misdemeanor Cases +
Attorney-of-the-Day Calendar Time ▼
Misdemeanor Case Weights +
Attorney-of-the-Day Calendar Time ▼
How to Use the Calculators
These calculators are designed to be straightforward and require no math on your end.
1. Enter data only in white cells
Gray, blue, and yellow cells are locked and contain formulas that auto-calculate totals.
2. Set your public defense work percentage
At the top of the sheet (line 3):
- Full-time public defense → leave at 100%
- Part-time public defense → change to the percentage of time you spend (e.g., 50%)
3. Input your new case assignments
Enter the number of new cases per case type for each month.
4. Use “Calendar Hours” when applicable
Some calculators include a Calendar Hours row.
This converts hours of attorney-of-the-day or other calendar work into case-equivalent units (e.g., arraignments, probation calendars).
Need a custom calculator?
OPD can create calculators for other groupings of case types.
Email a Public Defense Improvement at opd@opd.wa.gov
Questions?
360-586-3164 ext. 147