Obtaining a Public Defender

If you have been charged with a crime and cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for a public defender.

How Do I Get a Public Defender for a Seattle Municipal Court Case?

The City of Seattle contracts with King County Public Defense for public defender services.

You have the right to be represented by an attorney at all stages of the proceedings. A public defender will be appointed to represent you unless you hire a private attorney. If you hire private counsel, appointed counsel will withdraw. If a public defender has not yet been appointed in your case, please contact the Office of the Public Defender (DPD) at (206) 296-7662 to request an appointment 
 
If you decide to hire an attorney on your own. Please visit the King County Public Defense Resources page for more information on other legal resources. 

King County Public Defense Divisions

Associated Counsel for the Accused (ACA)            (206) 624-8105
The Defender Association (TDA)                           (206) 477-8700
Northwest Defenders (ND)                                   (206) 674-4700

How to Make a Complaint Against a Public Defender

If you have concerns with the public defender assigned to you, contact King County Public Defense and ask for the Misdemeanor Practice Director. If your concerns have not been addressed, please call the Seattle Municipal Court at (206) 386-1543.