reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.60 - Federal Court Local Law Certificate Procedure Act. › 2.60.030 - Practice and procedure.

RCW 2.60.030
Practice and procedure.
Certificate procedure shall be governed by the following provisions:
(1) Certificate procedure may be invoked by a federal court upon its own motion or upon the motion of any interested party in the litigation involved if the federal court grants such motion.
(2) Certificate procedure shall include and be based upon the record and may include a supplemental record.
(3) Certificate procedure costs shall be equally divided between plaintiff and defendant, subject to reallocation as between or among the parties by the federal court involved.
(4) The appellant or moving party in the federal court shall file and serve upon its adversary its brief on the question certified within thirty days after the filing of the record in the supreme court. The appellee or responding party in the federal court shall file and serve upon its adversary its brief within twenty days after receipt of appellant's or moving party's brief and a reply brief shall be filed within ten days. Time for filing record, supplemental record or briefs may be extended for cause.
(5) Oral argument as in other causes on the merits may be had upon request of the supreme court or upon application of any interested party in the certificate procedure.
(6) The supreme court shall forward to the federal court utilizing certificate procedure its opinion answering the local law question submitted.
(7) The supreme court may adopt rules of practice and procedure to implement or otherwise facilitate utilization of certificate procedure.
[ 1965 c 99 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.020 - Membership—Terms.

RCW 2.64.020
Membership—Terms.
The commission shall consist of eleven members. One member shall be a judge selected by and from the court of appeals judges; one member shall be a judge selected by and from the superior court judges; one member shall be a judge selected by and from the limited jurisdiction court judges; two members shall be selected by the state bar association and be admitted to the practice of law in this state; and six members shall be nonlawyers appointed by the governor. The term of each member of the commission shall be four years.
[ 2005 c 15 § 1; 1989 c 367 § 2; 1987 c 186 § 2; 1981 c 268 § 3.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—2005 c 15: "This act takes effect January 1, 2006, if the proposed amendment to Article IV, section 31 of the state Constitution (Senate Joint Resolution No. 8207, changing the membership of the commission on judicial conduct) is validly submitted to and is approved and ratified by the voters at the next general election. If the proposed amendment is not approved and ratified, this act is void in its entirety." [ 2005 c 15 § 2.] Senate Joint Resolution No. 8207 was approved and ratified by the voters at the November 8, 2005, general election.
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
Terms of additional members—1987 c 186 § 2: "Notwithstanding RCW 2.64.020, the initial term of one of the members added to the commission on judicial conduct by section 2, chapter 186, Laws of 1987 shall end on June 16, 1990, and the term of the other member shall end on June 16, 1991, as determined by lot." [ 1987 c 186 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.030 - Disqualification—Vacancies—Limitations on terms—Alternates—Removal.

RCW 2.64.030
Disqualification—Vacancies—Limitations on terms—Alternates—Removal.
Commission membership shall terminate if a member ceases to hold the position that qualified him or her for appointment. Vacancies caused by disqualification or resignation shall be filled by the appointing authority for the remainder of the term. No person may serve more than two consecutive four-year terms. A person may be reappointed after a lapse of one year. A member, rather than his or her successor, shall continue to participate in any hearing in progress at the end of his or her term, or when the member ceases to hold the position that qualified him or her for appointment. The appointing authority shall appoint an alternate to serve during a member's temporary disability, disqualification, or inability to serve. No member may otherwise be removed from the commission before the end of his or her term except upon good cause found by the appointing authority.
[ 1981 c 268 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.040 - Compensation and travel expenses.

RCW 2.64.040
Compensation and travel expenses.
Commission members and alternate members shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.250 and shall be reimbursed for travel expenses under RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
[ 1984 c 287 § 8; 1981 c 268 § 5.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings—Severability—Effective date—1984 c 287: See notes following RCW 43.03.220.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.050 - Employment of personnel—Expenditures authorized.

RCW 2.64.050
Employment of personnel—Expenditures authorized.
The commission may employ personnel, including attorneys, and make any other expenditures necessary for the effective performance of its duties and the exercise of its powers. The commission may hire attorneys or others by personal service contract to conduct initial proceedings regarding a complaint against a judge or justice. Commission employees shall be exempt from the civil service law, chapter 41.06 RCW.
[ 1989 c 367 § 3; 1981 c 268 § 6.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.055 - Disciplinary actions authorized.

RCW 2.64.055
Disciplinary actions authorized.
The commission is authorized to impose the following disciplinary actions, in increasing order of severity: (a) Admonishment; (b) reprimand; or (c) censure. If the conduct of the judge or justice warrants more severe disciplinary action, the commission may recommend to the supreme court the suspension or removal of the judge or justice.
[ 1989 c 367 § 4.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.057 - Investigation of conduct occurring prior to, on, or after December 4, 1980.

RCW 2.64.057
Investigation of conduct occurring prior to, on, or after December 4, 1980.
The commission is authorized to investigate and consider for probative value any conduct that may have occurred prior to, on, or after December 4, 1980, by a person who was, or is now, a judge or justice when such conduct relates to a complaint filed with the commission against the same judge or justice.
[ 1989 c 367 § 5.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.060 - Administration of oaths—Powers as to witnesses, papers, books, etc.—Subpoenas.

RCW 2.64.060
Administration of oaths—Powers as to witnesses, papers, books, etc.—Subpoenas.
Each member of the commission, and any special master appointed by the commission, may administer oaths. The commission may summon and examine witnesses and compel the production and examination of papers, books, accounts, documents, records, certificates, and other evidence for the determination of any issue before or the discharge of any duty of the commission. The commission shall also issue subpoenas at the request and on behalf of any judge or justice under inquiry. All subpoenas shall be signed by a member of the commission or a special master appointed by the commission. Subpoenas shall be served and witnesses reimbursed in the manner provided in civil cases in superior court.
[ 1981 c 268 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.070 - Refusal to obey subpoena—Powers of superior court.

RCW 2.64.070
Refusal to obey subpoena—Powers of superior court.
If a person refuses to obey a subpoena issued by the commission or refuses to answer any proper question during a hearing or proceeding, the superior court of any county in which the hearing or proceeding is conducted or in which the person resides or is found shall have jurisdiction, upon application by the commission, to order the person to appear before the commission, to produce evidence if so ordered, or to give testimony concerning the matter under investigation. Failure to obey the order of the court may be punished as contempt.
[ 1981 c 268 § 8.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.080 - Privilege from suit.

RCW 2.64.080
Privilege from suit.
Members and employees of the commission, including any lawyers or special masters temporarily employed by the commission, are absolutely privileged from suit in any action, civil or criminal, based upon any disciplinary proceedings or upon other official acts as members or employees of the commission. Statements made to the commission or its investigators or other employees are absolutely privileged in actions for defamation. This absolute privilege does not apply to statements made in any other forum.
[ 1981 c 268 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.092 - Administrative procedure act not applicable.

RCW 2.64.092
Administrative procedure act not applicable.
The adjudicative proceedings, judicial review, and civil enforcement provisions of chapter 34.05 RCW, the administrative procedure act, do not apply to any investigations, initial proceedings, public hearings, or executive sessions involving the discipline or retirement of a judge or justice.
[ 1989 c 367 § 7.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.094 - Suspension of judge or justice.

RCW 2.64.094
Suspension of judge or justice.
If the commission adopts a recommendation that a judge or justice be removed, the judge or justice shall be suspended, with salary, from his or her judicial position upon filing of the recommendation with the supreme court and until a final determination is made by the supreme court.
[ 1987 c 186 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.096 - Disclosure of material tending to negate determination.

RCW 2.64.096
Disclosure of material tending to negate determination.
Whenever the commission determines that there is probable cause to believe that a judge or justice has violated a rule of judicial conduct or that the judge or justice suffers from a disability which is permanent or likely to become permanent and which seriously interferes with the performance of judicial duties, the commission shall disclose to the judge or justice any material or information within the commission's knowledge which tends to negate the determination of the commission, except as otherwise provided by a protective order.
[ 1989 c 367 § 10.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.100 - Proposed operating budgets—Reports to legislature.

RCW 2.64.100
Proposed operating budgets—Reports to legislature.
The commission shall prepare and present to the legislature proposed operating budgets for the commission in accordance with the provisions of chapter 43.88 RCW. The commission shall report to the legislature in the manner required by law, with due regard for the confidentiality of proceedings before the commission.
[ 1981 c 268 § 11.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.111 - Exemption from public disclosure—Records subject to public disclosure, when.

RCW 2.64.111
Exemption from public disclosure—Records subject to public disclosure, when.
All pleadings, papers, evidence records, and files of the commission, including complaints and the identity of complainants, compiled or obtained during the course of an investigation or initial proceeding involving the discipline or retirement of a judge or justice, are exempt from the public disclosure requirements of chapter 42.56 RCW during such investigation or initial proceeding. As of the date of a public hearing, all those records of the initial proceeding that were the basis of a finding of probable cause are subject to the public disclosure requirements of chapter 42.56 RCW.
[ 2005 c 274 § 201; 1989 c 367 § 6.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.113 - Confidentiality—Violations.

RCW 2.64.113
Confidentiality—Violations.
The commission shall provide by rule for confidentiality of its investigations and initial proceedings in accordance with Article IV, section 31 of the state Constitution.
Any person violating a rule on confidentiality is subject to a proceeding for contempt in superior court.
[ 1989 c 367 § 9.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.64 - Commission on Judicial Conduct. › 2.64.115 - Application of open public meetings act—Exemptions.

RCW 2.64.115
Application of open public meetings act—Exemptions.
The commission is subject to the open public meetings act, chapter 42.30 RCW. However, investigations, initial proceedings, public hearings, and executive sessions involving the discipline or retirement of a judge or justice are governed by this chapter and Article IV, section 31 of the state Constitution and are exempt from the provisions of chapter 42.30 RCW.
[ 1989 c 367 § 8.]
NOTES:
Contingent effective date—1989 c 367: See note following RCW 2.64.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.010 - Judicial information system committee—Fees.

RCW 2.68.010
Judicial information system committee—Fees.
The judicial information system committee, as established by court rule, shall determine all matters pertaining to the delivery of services available from the judicial information system. The committee may establish a fee schedule for the provision of information services and may enter into contracts with any person, public or private, including the state, its departments, subdivisions, institutions, and agencies. However, no fee may be charged to county or city governmental agencies within the state of Washington using the judicial information system for the business of the courts.
[ 1989 c 364 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.020 - Judicial information system account.

RCW 2.68.020
Judicial information system account.
There is created an account in the custody of the state treasurer to be known as the judicial information system account. The administrative office of the courts shall maintain and administer the account, in which shall be deposited all moneys received from in-state noncourt users and any out-of-state users of the judicial information system and moneys as specified in RCW 2.68.040 for the purposes of providing judicial information system access to noncourt users and providing an adequate level of automated services to the judiciary. The legislature shall appropriate the funds in the account for the purposes of the judicial information system. The account shall be used for the acquisition of equipment, software, supplies, services, and other costs incidental to the acquisition, development, operation, and administration of information services, telecommunications, systems, software, supplies, and equipment, including the payment of principal and interest on items paid in installments. During the 2011-2013 fiscal biennium, the judicial information system account may be appropriated to support the state law library. During the 2013-2015 fiscal biennium, the judicial information system account may be appropriated to support the information systems and other activities in the administrative office of the courts.
[ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 § 950; 2012 2nd sp.s. c 7 § 913. Prior: 2009 c 564 § 1802; 2009 c 564 § 918; 2005 c 282 § 11; 1994 c 8 § 1; 1989 c 364 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2013 2nd sp.s. c 4: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [June 30, 2013]; except for section 952 of this act which takes effect August 1, 2013, section 968 of this act which takes effect June 30, 2013; sections 978 and 996 of this act which take effect July 28, 2013; and sections 991 and 992 of this act which take effect July 1, 2013." [ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 § 1904.]
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 7: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 2, 2012]." [ 2012 2nd sp.s. c 7 § 938.]
Effective date—2009 c 564: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 19, 2009]." [ 2009 c 564 § 1812.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.030 - Schedule of user fees.

RCW 2.68.030
Schedule of user fees.
The judicial information system committee shall develop a schedule of user fees for in-state noncourt users and all out-of-state users of the judicial information computer system and charges for judicial information system products and licenses for the purpose of distributing and apportioning the full cost of operation and continued development of the system among the users. The schedule shall generate sufficient revenue to cover the costs relating to (1) the payment of salaries, wages, other costs including, but not limited to the acquisition, operation, and administration of acquired information services, supplies, and equipment; and (2) the development of judicial information system products and services. As used in this section, the term "supplies" shall not be interpreted to delegate or abrogate the state purchasing and material control director's responsibilities and authority to purchase supplies as provided in chapter 43.19 RCW.
[ 1989 c 364 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.040 - Judicial information system account—Increase in fines, penalties, assessments—Exception.

RCW 2.68.040
Judicial information system account—Increase in fines, penalties, assessments—Exception.
(1) To support the judicial information system account provided for in RCW 2.68.020, the supreme court may provide by rule for an increase in fines, penalties, and assessments, and the increased amount shall be forwarded to the state treasurer for deposit in the account:
(a) Pursuant to the authority of RCW 46.63.110(3), the sum of ten dollars to any penalty collected by a court pursuant to supreme court infraction rules for courts of limited jurisdiction;
(b) Pursuant to RCW 3.62.060, a mandatory appearance cost in the initial sum of ten dollars to be assessed on all defendants; and
(c) Pursuant to RCW 46.63.110(6), a ten-dollar assessment for each account for which a person requests a time payment schedule.
(2) Notwithstanding a provision of law or rule to the contrary, the assessments provided for in this section may not be waived or suspended and shall be immediately due and payable upon forfeiture, conviction, deferral of prosecution, or request for time payment, as each shall occur.
(3) The supreme court is requested to adjust these assessments for inflation.
(4) This section does not apply to the additional monetary penalty under RCW 46.20.500.
(5) This section does not apply to the additional monetary fine under RCW 46.61.110, 46.61.145, 46.61.180, 46.61.185, 46.61.190, and 46.61.205.
(6) This section does not apply to the additional monetary penalties under RCW 46.61.165.
(7) In addition to any amount prescribed by rule under subsection (1)(a) of this section as an assessment on traffic infractions dedicated for the judicial information system, there shall be assessed $2 on each traffic infraction. The additional $2 shall be forwarded to the state treasurer for deposit in the driver licensing technology support account, created under RCW 46.68.067, to be used to support information technology systems used by the department of licensing to communicate with the judicial information system, manage driving records, and implement court orders.
[ 2021 c 240 § 14. Prior: 2019 c 467 § 6; 2019 c 403 § 12; 2019 c 65 § 6; 1994 c 8 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2021 c 240: See note following RCW 46.63.060.
Finding—Intent—2019 c 467: See note following RCW 46.20.289.
Finding—Intent—Effective date—2019 c 403: See notes following RCW 46.04.071.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 65: See notes following RCW 46.81A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.050 - Electronic access to judicial information.

RCW 2.68.050
Electronic access to judicial information.
The supreme court, the court of appeals and all superior and district courts, through the judicial information system committee, shall:
(1) Continue to plan for and implement processes for making judicial information available electronically;
(2) Promote and facilitate electronic access to the public of judicial information and services;
(3) Establish technical standards for such services;
(4) Consider electronic public access needs when planning new information systems or major upgrades of information systems;
(5) Develop processes to determine which judicial information the public most wants and needs;
(6) Increase capabilities to receive information electronically from the public and transmit forms, applications and other communications and transactions electronically;
(7) Use technologies that allow continuous access twenty-four hours a day, seven days per week, involve little or no cost to access, and are capable of being used by persons without extensive technology ability; and
(8) Consider and incorporate wherever possible ease of access to electronic technologies by persons with disabilities.
[ 1996 c 171 § 3.]
NOTES:
Captions not law—1996 c 171: "Section captions used in this act do not constitute any part of the law." [ 1996 c 171 § 16.]
Effective dates—1996 c 171: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 28, 1996], except for section 8 of this act, which takes effect June 30, 1997." [ 1996 c 171 § 19.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.68 - Judicial Information System. › 2.68.060 - Duties of the administrative office of the courts.

RCW 2.68.060
Duties of the administrative office of the courts.
The administrative office of the courts, under the direction of the judicial information system committee, shall:
(1) Develop a judicial information system information technology portfolio consistent with the provisions of RCW 43.105.341;
(2) Participate in the development of an enterprise-based statewide information technology strategy;
(3) Ensure the judicial information system information technology portfolio is organized and structured to clearly indicate participation in and use of enterprise-wide information technology strategies;
(4) As part of the biennial budget process, submit the judicial information system information technology portfolio to the chair and ranking member of the ways and means committees of the house of representatives and the senate, the office of financial management, and the consolidated technology services agency.
[ 2015 3rd sp.s. c 1 § 403; 2015 c 225 § 4; 2010 c 282 § 7.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2015 3rd sp.s. c 1 §§ 401-405, 409, 411, and 412: See note following RCW 2.36.057.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.005 - Office of public defense established.

RCW 2.70.005
Office of public defense established.
In order to implement the constitutional and statutory guarantees of counsel and to ensure effective and efficient delivery of indigent defense services funded by the state of Washington, an office of public defense is established as an independent agency of the judicial branch.
[ 2008 c 313 § 2; 1996 c 221 § 1.]
NOTES:
Findings—2008 c 313: "(1) The legislature finds that the office of public defense:
(a) Operates in an efficient and economical manner, with adequate cost controls in place;
(b) Meets established goals and targets; and
(c) Does not substantially duplicate services offered by other agencies or the private sector.
(2) Termination of the office of public defense would have substantial and wide-reaching ramifications on the court system in Washington state. The right to counsel is a constitutional right, and provision of counsel for indigent defendants is a government responsibility." [ 2008 c 313 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.010 - Director—Appointment—Qualifications—Salary.

RCW 2.70.010
Director—Appointment—Qualifications—Salary.
The supreme court shall appoint the director of the office of public defense from a list of three names submitted by the advisory committee created under RCW 2.70.030. Qualifications shall include admission to the practice of law in this state for at least five years, experience in providing indigent defense services, and proven managerial or supervisory experience. The director shall serve at the pleasure of the supreme court and receive a salary to be fixed by the advisory committee.
[ 2008 c 313 § 3; 1996 c 221 § 2.]
NOTES:
Findings—2008 c 313: See note following RCW 2.70.005.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.025 - Director—Indigent defense services—Civil commitment of sexually violent predators.

RCW 2.70.025
Director—Indigent defense services—Civil commitment of sexually violent predators.
In providing indigent defense services for sexually violent predator civil commitment cases under chapter 71.09 RCW, the director shall:
(1) In accordance with state contracting laws, contract with persons admitted to practice law in this state and organizations employing persons admitted to practice law in this state for the provision of legal services to indigent persons;
(2) Establish annual contract fees for defense legal services within amounts appropriated based on court rules and court orders;
(3) Ensure an indigent person qualified for appointed counsel has one contracted counsel appointed to assist him or her. Upon a showing of good cause, the court may order additional counsel;
(4) Consistent with court rules and court orders, establish procedures for the reimbursement of expert witness and other professional and investigative costs;
(5) Review and analyze existing caseload standards and make recommendations for updating caseload standards as appropriate;
(6) Annually, with the first report due December 1, 2013, submit a report to the chief justice of the supreme court, the governor, and the legislature, with all pertinent data on the operation of indigent defense services for commitment proceedings under this section, including:
(a) Recommended levels of appropriation to maintain adequate indigent defense services to the extent constitutionally required;
(b) The time to trial for all commitment trial proceedings including a list of the number of continuances granted, the party that requested the continuance, the county where the proceeding is being heard, and, if available, the reason the continuance was granted;
(c) Recommendations for policy changes, including changes in statutes and changes in court rules, which may be appropriate for the improvement of sexually violent predator civil commitment proceedings.
[ 2012 c 257 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 c 257: See note following RCW 2.70.020.
Indigent defense services—Scope of representation: RCW 71.09.045.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.027 - Director—Commitment to psychiatric care—Postcommitment public defense services for indigent persons.

RCW 2.70.027
Director—Commitment to psychiatric care—Postcommitment public defense services for indigent persons.
In providing postcommitment public defense services for indigent persons who are committed to state psychiatric care following acquittal by reason of insanity under chapter 10.77 RCW, the director shall:
(1) In accordance with state contracting laws, contract with persons admitted to practice law in this state and with government or nongovernment organizations employing persons admitted to practice law in this state;
(2) Establish annual contract fees for public defense legal services within amounts appropriated;
(3) Ensure an indigent person qualified for public defense counsel has contracted counsel appointed to assist him or her;
(4) Consistent with applicable statutes, court orders, and court rules, establish office policies and procedures for the payment of expert costs, other professional and investigative costs, and litigation costs;
(5) Review and analyze existing caseload standards and make recommendations for updating caseload standards as appropriate for this area of legal practice; and
(6) Periodically, as needed, submit reports to the chief justice of the supreme court of the state of Washington, the governor, and the legislature. The purpose of such reports is to communicate new information regarding public defense services for persons who are committed following acquittal by reason of insanity under chapter 10.77 RCW and to recommend changes in statutes and court rules for the improvement of insanity commitment and postcommitment proceedings.
[ 2023 c 120 § 3.]
NOTES:
Intent—2023 c 120: "Out of concern for inconsistent practices for providing postcommitment right to counsel services, the legislature directed the Washington state office of public defense to develop a statewide proposal to administer the right to counsel for persons acquitted by reason of insanity and committed to state psychiatric care.
In response to the office's proposal, the legislature intends that the office of public defense shall administer a program of statewide public defense services to ensure the right to counsel for indigent persons who are committed to state psychiatric care following acquittal by reason of insanity. The legislature intends that the office shall administer these postcommitment public defense services in a manner that provides for statewide effectiveness, efficiency, and equity." [ 2023 c 120 § 1.]
Effective date—2023 c 120: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 20, 2023]." [ 2023 c 120 § 15.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.030 - Advisory committee—Membership—Duties—Travel and other expenses.

RCW 2.70.030
Advisory committee—Membership—Duties—Travel and other expenses.
(1) There is created an advisory committee consisting of the following members:
(a) Three persons appointed by the chief justice of the supreme court, who shall also appoint the chair of the committee;
(b) Two nonattorneys appointed by the governor;
(c) Two senators, one from each of the two largest caucuses, appointed by the president of the senate; and two members of the house of representatives, one from each of the two largest caucuses, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives;
(d) One person appointed by the court of appeals executive committee;
(e) One person appointed by the Washington state bar association;
(f) One person appointed by the Washington state association of counties; and
(g) One person appointed by the association of Washington cities.
(2) During the term of his or her appointment, no appointee may: (a) Provide indigent defense services funded by a city, a county, or the state, except on a pro bono basis; (b) serve as a judge except on a pro tem basis or as a court employee; or (c) serve as a prosecutor or prosecutor employee.
(3) Members of the advisory committee shall receive no compensation for their services as members of the committee, but may be reimbursed for travel and other expenses in accordance with state law.
(4) The advisory committee shall:
(a) Meet at least quarterly;
(b) Review at least biennially the performance of the director, and submit each review to the chief justice of the supreme court;
(c) Receive reports from the director;
(d) Make policy recommendations, as appropriate, to the legislature and the supreme court;
(e) Approve the office's budget requests;
(f) Advise the director regarding administration and oversight of the office's program areas; and
(g) Carry out other duties as authorized or required by law.
[ 2008 c 313 § 5; 2005 c 111 § 1; 1996 c 221 § 4.]
NOTES:
Findings—2008 c 313: See note following RCW 2.70.005.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.040 - Employees—Civil service exemption.

RCW 2.70.040
Employees—Civil service exemption.
All employees of the office of public defense shall be exempt from state civil service under chapter 41.06 RCW.
[ 1996 c 221 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.060 - Parents for parents program—"Parent ally" defined.

RCW 2.70.060
Parents for parents program—"Parent ally" defined.
For the purposes of RCW 2.70.070 through 2.70.090, "parent ally" means a parent who has successfully resolved the issues that led the parent's child into the care of the juvenile dependency court system, resulting in family reunification or another permanency outcome, and who has an interest in working collaboratively to improve the lives of children and families.
[ 2020 c 33 § 3; 2015 c 117 § 2.]
NOTES:
Intent—2020 c 33: See note following RCW 74.13.715.
Intent—2015 c 117: "Early outreach and education helps shift the attitudes of parents involved in the dependency court system from anger and resentment to acknowledgment and acceptance, enhances parents' engagement in court-ordered plans in the dependency system, and increases the likelihood of family reunification. The parents for parents program has been shown to increase the number of family reunifications, where appropriate, while decreasing the length of time needed to establish permanence. The program currently exists in nine counties: Grays Harbor/Pacific, King, Kitsap, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, and Thurston/Mason. It is the legislature's goal to continue to support the program in these counties, standardize the parents for parents curriculum among counties in which it is currently utilized, and replicate the program statewide by the end of the 2019–2021 biennium." [ 2015 c 117 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.070 - Parents for parents program—Goal—Structured peer mentoring.

RCW 2.70.070
Parents for parents program—Goal—Structured peer mentoring.
(1) The goal of the parents for parents program is to increase the permanency and well-being of children in foster care through peer mentoring that increases parental engagement and contributes to family reunification.
(2) The parents for parents program may provide structured peer mentoring for families entering the dependency court system, administered by parent allies.
[ 2020 c 33 § 4; 2015 c 117 § 3.]
NOTES:
Intent—2020 c 33: See note following RCW 74.13.715.
Intent—2015 c 117: See note following RCW 2.70.060.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.080 - Parents for parents program—Components of program.

RCW 2.70.080
Parents for parents program—Components of program.
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, components of the parents for parents program, provided by parent allies, may include:
(1) Outreach and support to parents at dependency-related hearings, beginning with the shelter care hearing;
(2) A class that educates parents about the dependency system they must navigate in order to have their children returned, empowers them with tools and resources they need to be successful with their case plan, and provides information that helps them understand and support the needs of their children;
(3) Ongoing individual peer support to help parents involved with the child welfare system;
(4) Structured, curriculum-based peer support groups.
[ 2020 c 33 § 5; 2015 c 117 § 4.]
NOTES:
Intent—2020 c 33: See note following RCW 74.13.715.
Intent—2015 c 117: See note following RCW 2.70.060.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.090 - Parents for parents program—Funding, administration—Program advisors.

RCW 2.70.090
Parents for parents program—Funding, administration—Program advisors.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the parents for parents program shall be funded through the office of public defense and centrally administered through a pass-through to a Washington state nonprofit-lead organization that has extensive experience supporting parent allies.
(2) Through the contract with the lead organization, each local program must be locally administered by the county superior court or a nonprofit organization that shall serve as the host organization.
(3) Local stakeholders representing key child welfare systems shall serve as parents for parents program advisors. Examples of local stakeholders include the department of children, youth, and families, the superior court, attorneys for the parents, assistant attorneys general, and court-appointed special advocates or guardians ad litem.
(4) A parent ally lead shall provide program coordination and maintain local program information.
(5) The lead organization shall provide ongoing training to the host organizations, statewide program oversight and coordination, and maintain statewide program information.
[ 2020 c 33 § 6; 2018 c 58 § 66; 2015 c 117 § 5.]
NOTES:
Intent—2020 c 33: See note following RCW 74.13.715.
Effective date—2018 c 58: See note following RCW 28A.655.080.
Intent—2015 c 117: See note following RCW 2.70.060.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.100 - Parents for parents program—Evaluation—Reports to the legislature.

RCW 2.70.100
Parents for parents program—Evaluation—Reports to the legislature.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, a research entity with experience in child welfare research shall conduct an evaluation of the parents for parents program. The evaluation design must meet the standards necessary to determine whether parents for parents can be considered a research-based program.
(2) A preliminary report to the legislature must be provided by December 1, 2016. At a minimum, the preliminary report must include statistics showing rates of attendance at court hearings and compliance with court-ordered services and visitation. The report must also address whether participation in the program affected participants' overall understanding of the dependency court process.
(3) A subsequent report must be delivered to the legislature by December 1, 2019. In addition to the information required under subsection (2) of this section, this report must include statistics demonstrating the effect of the program on reunification rates and lengths of time families were engaged in the dependency court system before achieving permanency.
[ 2015 c 117 § 6.]
NOTES:
Intent—2015 c 117: See note following RCW 2.70.060.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.110 - Identifying information of youth.

RCW 2.70.110
Identifying information of youth.
Subject to the rules of discovery, the office of public defense is authorized to collect identifying information for any youth who speaks with a consulting attorney pursuant to RCW 13.40.740; provided, however, that such records are exempt from public disclosure.
[ 2021 c 328 § 4.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2021 c 328: See note following RCW 13.40.740.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.200 - Representation of persons charged with violating certain counterfeit substances, controlled substances, cannabis, or legend drug provisions.

RCW 2.70.200
Representation of persons charged with violating certain counterfeit substances, controlled substances, cannabis, or legend drug provisions.
(1) Subject to amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the office of public defense may provide reimbursement of eligible expenses or contract directly with indigent defense providers for consultation and representation services for indigent adults facing pending charges or charged with violations of RCW 69.50.4011(1) (b) or (c), 69.50.4013, 69.50.4014, or 69.41.030(2) (b) or (c), or charged with offenses involving allegations of possession or public use of a controlled substance, counterfeit substance, or legend drug, in courts of limited jurisdiction in counties with a population of 500,000 or less and cities with a population of 200,000 or less. The county or city may enter into an agreement with the office of public defense for reimbursement of eligible expenses or designate the office of public defense to contract directly with indigent defense providers for consultation and representation services in their jurisdiction.
(2) Nothing in this section creates an entitlement to counsel at state expense or a right by counties or cities for the provision of services by the office of public defense that would exceed the amounts appropriated for this specific purpose.
[ 2023 sp.s. c 1 § 39.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.70 - Office of Public Defense. › 2.70.900 - Transfer of certain powers, duties, and functions of the department of social and health services.

RCW 2.70.900
Transfer of certain powers, duties, and functions of the department of social and health services.
(1) All powers, duties, and functions of the department of social and health services and the special commitment center pertaining to indigent defense under chapter 71.09 RCW are transferred to the office of public defense.
(2)(a) The office of public defense may request any written materials in the possession of the department of social and health services and the special commitment center pertaining to the powers, functions, and duties transferred, which shall be delivered to the custody of the office of public defense. Materials may be transferred electronically and/or in hard copy, as agreed by the agencies. All funds, credits, or other assets held in connection with the powers, functions, and duties transferred shall be assigned to the office of public defense.
(b) Any appropriations made to the department of social and health services for carrying out the powers, functions, and duties transferred shall, on July 1, 2012, be transferred and credited to the office of public defense.
(3) Notwithstanding July 1, 2012, if implementation of office of public defense contracts would result in the substitution of counsel within one hundred eighty days of a scheduled trial date, the director of the office of public defense may continue defense services with existing counsel to facilitate continuity of effective representation and avoid further continuance of a trial. When existing counsel is maintained, payment to complete the trial shall be prorated based on standard contract fees established by the office of public defense under RCW 2.70.025 and, at the director's discretion, may include extraordinary compensation based on attorney documentation.
[ 2012 c 257 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2012 c 257: See note following RCW 2.70.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 2 - Courts of Record › Chapter 2.72 - Office of Public Guardianship and Conservatorship. › 2.72.005 - Intent.

RCW 2.72.005
Intent.
(1) In establishing an office of public guardianship and conservatorship, the legislature intends to promote the availability of guardianship, conservatorship, and alternate services that provide support for decision making for individuals who need them and for whom adequate services may otherwise be unavailable. The legislature reaffirms its commitment to treat liberty and autonomy as paramount values for all Washington residents and to authorize public guardianship and conservatorship only to the minimum extent necessary to provide for health or safety, or to manage financial affairs, when the legal conditions for appointment of a guardian or conservator are met. It does not intend to alter those legal conditions or to expand judicial authority to determine that any individual may be subject to guardianship or conservatorship.
(2) The legislature further recognizes that decision-making assistance for people who have limited capacity can preserve individual liberty and provide effective support responsive to individual needs and wishes. The legislature also recognizes that these services may be less expensive than guardianship and conservatorship for the state, the courts, and for individuals with limited capacity and their families.
[ 2020 c 312 § 401; 2019 c 215 § 1; 2007 c 364 § 1.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2020 c 312: See note following RCW 11.130.915.