Public Defense Services for Mason County

Mason County is soliciting proposals from qualified attorneys, private law firms, nonprofit entities, and public agencies to provide comprehensive public defense services for indigent criminal defendants. The selected provider(s) will be responsible for full legal representation at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pretrial hearings, motions, trials, sentencing, review hearings, probation reviews, and appeals through the point of filing. Services also include meeting with clients in custody at the Mason County Jail in Shelton, Washington, conducting legal research, interviewing witnesses, negotiating with prosecutors, and preparing all necessary legal documentation. The county anticipates assigning approximately 1,165 cases annually. The proposed contract term is for an initial period of three years, commencing upon contract approval and concluding on December 31, 2029, with the option for mutual extension. Compensation is proposed at up to $2,000,000 annually, though alternative fee proposals are welcomed. Proposers must detail their fee structure, including provisions for non-routine services, and all associated overhead, support, and expenses. The selected provider will be considered an independent contractor and will not be eligible for employee benefits.