Since 1983, we have been committed to improving the quality of the criminal defense bar in Washington and in working for improved funding for public defense.

WDA provides over 700 members with access to the most recent developments in criminal law through training seminars, publications, and its resource assistance.

WDA represents public defense issues in Olympia. WDA works actively to oppose legislation which would seriously undermine constitutional protections for people accused of crimes. WDA supports positive legislation which would help fund indigent defense services or otherwise assist public defense agencies in protecting the rights of the accused. In addition, we support efforts which would provide alternatives to incarceration when appropriate.

WDA was instrumental in the establishment of the State Task Force on Indigent Defense and has established standards for public defense services which have been endorsed by the Washington State Bar and referenced in legislation.