Bid guide
How to bid on Felony Public Defender services for Franklin County Superior Court
What Franklin County is buying and why it matters
Franklin County is seeking qualified Washington attorneys to provide felony public defense services in its Superior Court. This opportunity is for an immediate opening and involves handling all felony cases (Class A, B, and C) except for homicides and persistent offender cases.
The county plans to award one contract, which will run from the award date through December 31, 2026. The base annual compensation is $156,560 for up to 140 cases, paid in monthly installments. Additional compensation includes a trial per diem of $800 per day or $400 per half day. This is a significant opportunity for attorneys looking to secure a stable contract for public defense work.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) does not have a fixed closing date. Franklin County states that the contract may be awarded immediately. Therefore, early or immediate submission of your application is strongly recommended.
The listed deadline of October 03, 2026 at 10:28 PM ET is provisional. It is crucial to confirm the current status of this solicitation on the Franklin County bid postings page before preparing and submitting your response, as the opportunity may close at any time once a suitable candidate is found.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is ideal for attorneys admitted to practice law in the State of Washington. Applicants must either already have, or be prepared to establish, a confidential law office within the Tri-Cities area (Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco).
This is a professional services contract suitable for individual attorneys or small law firms specializing in criminal defense, particularly those with experience in felony cases. The contract offers a consistent caseload and compensation for a defined period.
How to respond
To access the full solicitation details, you need to view the original source on the Franklin County bid postings page. All posting and related-document links will be available there.
To apply, submit a letter of interest detailing your background, experience, and professional accomplishments, along with a current resume. You may also include optional letters of reference. Electronic submission is strongly encouraged and should be emailed with "RFQ Response-FCSC Felony" in the subject line. Mailed applications are also accepted at the address provided in the solicitation.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Given the immediate nature of this opening, submit your qualifications as soon as possible. Focus your letter of interest on demonstrating your specific experience with felony cases in Washington State and your ability to meet the caseload requirements.
Ensure your resume is up-to-date and clearly highlights relevant legal experience and any professional accomplishments pertinent to public defense. If you choose to include references, select those who can speak directly to your capabilities in criminal defense. Clearly state how you meet the requirement for a confidential law office in the Tri-Cities area.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Franklin County; the original posting controls.