Friday, October 23, 2026
The City of Lacey is seeking qualified attorneys to represent indigent defendants in misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases.
Counsel handles cases whenever a public defender has a conflict. The city announced the opportunity through a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued on Thursday, Oct. 22.
Applications are open to law firms, nonprofit entities and public agencies, with submissions due by 5 p.m. on Nov. 20.
Lacey is responsible for providing public defense to people who meet financial criteria. According to the RFP, the city is committed to quality, effective and accessible services for defendants in custody or out of custody.
Starting in 2027, the city anticipates about 20 conflict cases a year. However, monthly assignments are not guaranteed and can fluctuate.
The selected provider will work under a two-year agreement beginning on Jan. 1, 2027. The city also has the option to lengthen the contract at its discretion.
Once appointed, attorneys represent defendants through the conclusion of their cases. Their work includes client and witness interviews, legal research, court filings, negotiations with prosecutors, sentencing advocacy and court appearances.
Representation may happen in person or through virtual and telephone appearances when permitted by the city and court.
Attorneys must also meet clients at Nisqually Detention and Corrections Center, Thurston County Correctional Facility or other facilities used by the city. Lacey contracts with Thurston County District Court for Municipal Court services and with the Nisqually Indian Tribe for jail services.
In addition to conflict cases, the city may consider proposals for representation under the Rules for Appeals from Courts of Limited Jurisdiction. Those services will be requested when necessary, and they require a separate compensation proposal.
All providers must comply with current Washington State Bar Association Standards for Indigent Defense Services and future revisions.
The draft agreement also outlines annual caseload reductions for public defenders. Cases per attorney are projected to decrease to 372 in 2027 from 400 in 2026. The reductions are forecast to continue through 2036, ending at an estimated 120 cases.
Proposals must outline relevant public defense experience, attorney qualifications and ability to accommodate fluctuating assignments.
Applicants must also disclose potential conflicts of interest, previous professional disciplinary actions and public contracts terminated for cause within the past 10 years.
City staff will evaluate submissions on completeness, experience, ability to perform required services and proposed compensation.
Compensation remains subject to negotiation. However, the city will reimburse necessary and reasonable investigative and expert services when authorized.
Once the contract begins, selected providers must submit monthly case reports documenting appointments, completed cases and outcomes.
Interested applicants have until Oct. 29 to submit questions. The city will post responses on Nov. 5.
To learn more about the contract and how to apply, visit the City of Lacey website.
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