Courts

Public Defender

Mission Statement/Purpose:
The City of Spokane Public Defender’s Office represents eligible people facing a loss of liberty from criminal charges within the City of Spokane. Our department is an independent voice that promotes justice and equity for our clients and advocates for their objectives, interests and dignity. We seek to address racial disproportionality in the local criminal legal system on issues of incarceration and sentencing, eligibility for programmatic alternatives and case resolution.

City of Spokane Public Defender’s Office

The City Public Defender's Office handles misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors charged within the City limits for persons who are determined to be unable to afford to hire private counsel. The County Public Defender's Office handles felonies and juvenile cases. A person seeking representation by an attorney from the City Public Defender's Office should apply at Municipal Probation on the second floor of the Public Safety Building located at 1100 West Mallon Avenue, Spokane, WA 99260. Applications for a public defender are also taken at city arraignment dockets.

How do I apply for a Public Defender?

You may qualify to be represented by the City Public Defender's Office in a criminal (misdemeanor) matter. To apply for public defense, submit your application at the City Probation Office on the 2nd floor of the Public Safety Building located at 1100 West Mallon Avenue, Spokane, WA 99260. You will be asked to provide information about your finances to determine your eligibility for public defense. If eligible, you will be given instructions for scheduling an appointment with a City Public Defender.

City Probation:
Probation Website
509.622.5800