GR 9 Cover Sheet

Suggested Changes to CrR 3.4 and CrRLJ 3.4

(A) Name of Proponent: Washington Defender Association

(B)  Spokesperson: Magda Baker, Misdemeanor Resource Attorney, Washington Defender Association

(C) Purpose: The Washington Defender Association (WDA) suggests changes to CrR 3.4 and CrRLJ 3.4 that would allow criminal defendants to appear through their attorneys for some of the hearings they are currently required to attend in person. These changes would allow the court system to function more efficiently and minimize some of the disruptive impacts participating in the court process has on many defendants. Fewer required physical appearances for defendants would lead to fewer missed court dates that require costly bench warrants and delay resolution of cases. For many low and moderate income defendants, attending multiple court hearings may cause them to miss work or school or to struggle to provide care for children or elderly family members. Travel and transportation to some courts may also be difficult or impossible for defendants without drivers licenses, cars or financial resources. Individuals who miss court dates are at risk for new criminal charges arising from missed court appearances. These proposed changes will help prevent indigent defendants from being unnecessarily pulled deeper into the criminal justice system. The proposed changes will help make the court process more effective and efficient for the court and all parties involved.