Division Responsibilities & Services
The District Court division of the Pierce County Department of Assigned Counsel (DAC) represents adult indigent defendants facing misdemeanor allegations in
Pierce County District Court. A misdemeanor offense carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. A gross misdemeanor offense carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. These cases are prosecuted by the Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney.
When a person is arraigned in Pierce County District Court on a criminal charge, the judge may independently determine eligibility for appointment of counsel, or the judge may refer for further screening by the Pierce County Clerk's Office, 930 Tacoma Avenue South, Room 110.
If you qualify for a public defender, DAC will enter a Notice of Appearance. DAC will notify you who the attorney will be and how you can contact your attorney.
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