King County Department Of Public Defense In Kent

This service offers legal representation to individuals who qualify based on their financial situation and are involved in specific criminal and civil cases.

Intake Process: To begin, simply call for a financial assessment over the phone; no prior appointment is needed. Cases will be evaluated to determine if the individual is indigent. Those deemed financially eligible will be assigned a public defender or a private attorney willing to take on court-appointed cases. Clients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis, with no appointments required. If a DPD screener has assigned you to a division, please wait four business days after your screening before calling that division to learn the name of your attorney. If you are unsure of your assigned division, contact DPD for assistance.

Fees: Individuals who have been arrested will be informed that they can receive an attorney at no cost if they cannot afford one. However, there may be fees for other services based on the client’s income.