Washington § 36.26.070 - Duty to represent indigent defendants.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 36.26.070 — Duty to represent indigent defendants., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 36.26.070. Duty to represent indigent defendants.

The public defender must represent, without charge to any accused, every indigent person who is or has been arrested or charged with a crime for which court appointed counsel for indigent defendants is required either under the Constitution of the United States or under the Constitution and laws of the state of Washington:
(1) If such arrested person or accused, having been apprised of his or her constitutional and statutory rights to counsel, requests the appointment of counsel to represent him or her; and
(2) If a court, on its own motion or otherwise, does not appoint counsel to represent the accused; and
(3) Unless the arrested person or accused, having been apprised of his or her right to counsel in open court, affirmatively rejects or intelligently repudiates his or her constitutional and statutory rights to be represented by counsel.
[ 2009 c 549 s 4043; 1984 c 76 s 18; 1969 c 94 s 7.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 36.26.070

What does Revised Code of Washington § 36.26.070 cover?

Section 36.26.070 ("Duty to represent indigent defendants.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 36.26.070?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 36.26.070" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 36.26.070 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.