Assigned Counsel (Public Defender)

NOTICE

Out of the abundance of caution for your safety, and due to the limited space in our lobby to ensure social distancing, we have closed our reception area for in-person business. We are available via telephone, between the hours of 8:30-4:30, at (253) 798-6062. If you do not have a phone, please knock on the door and take a seat in the hallway. A staff member will come out to meet with you.

In the event you are experiencing flu like symptoms, PLEASE ALERT OUR STAFF PERSON.

Please feel free to call this number with any questions or concerns regarding any matters. If you are here to meet with your attorney either contact your attorney directly or call (253) 798-6062, and we will assist you in rescheduling your appointment. For updated information regarding court changes, policies, and procedures please check the websites listed below.

Responsibilities & Services

The Department of Assigned Counsel (DAC) is responsible for the delivery of mandated legal services to indigent persons accused of crimes in the Pierce County Superior Court; Pierce County District Courts; Municipal Courts in Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Fircrest and Ruston; and Pierce County Juvenile Court delinquency proceedings. DAC also provides constitutionally mandated legal services to indigent parents involved in Juvenile Court dependency and termination proceedings and to persons detained for involuntary civil commitment proceedings at Western State Hospital and other evaluation and treatment facilities.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Assigned Counsel is to provide and administer the public defense delivery system in Pierce County in a manner that assures eligible people receive professional and effective representation while efficiently utilizing public resources.

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