Standard 14.1

As amended throough October 10, 2024

Standard 14.1

In order to assure that indigent accused receive the effective assistance of counsel to which they are constitutionally entitled, attorneys providing defense services shall meet the following minimum professional qualifications:

A. Satisfy the minimum requirements for practicing law in Washington as determined by the Washington Supreme Court; and

B. Be familiar with the statutes, court rules, constitutional provisions, and case law relevant to their practice area; and

C. Be familiar with the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct; and

D. Be familiar with the Performance Guidelines for Criminal Defense Representation approved by the Washington State Bar Association; when representing youth, be familiar with the Performance Guidelines for Juvenile Defense Representation approved by the Washington State Bar Association; and when representing respondents in civil commitment proceedings, be familiar with the Performance Guidelines for Attorneys Representing Respondents in Civil Commitment Proceedings approved by the Washington Bar Association; and

E. Be familiar with the Washington State Guidelines for Appointed Counsel in Indigent Appeals; and

F. Be familiar with the consequences of a conviction or adjudication, including possible immigration consequences and the possibility of civil commitment proceedings based on a criminal conviction; and

G. Be familiar with mental health issues and be able to identify the need to obtain expert services; and

H. Complete seven hours of continuing legal education within each calendar year in courses relating to their public defense practice.

Adopted effective 10/1/2012; Amended effective 4/24/2018; 2/1/2021; 9/1/2021.