Information

Type: Deliberation

Department: RISK - Risk

Directors' Update: Oct. 29, 2025

Business Meeting: Nov. 4, 2025

Summary:

Approve Public Defense contract with Sound Defenders, PLLC represented by Heather Villani for District Court.

Publications:

Cover Letter To:

Additional Copies To: Natalie Mauermann, Sherri Dokken

Resolution

WHEREAS, Lewis County is committed to providing effective legal representation to indigent individuals in accordance with constitutional mandates and state laws; and

WHEREAS, RCW 10.101.030 requires counties to adopt standards for the delivery of public defense services; and

WHEREAS, Lewis County has established local standards for public defense services codified in Chapter 2.40 of the Lewis County Code, ensuring compliance with state requirements; and

WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of Lewis County to enter into a Public Defense Service Contract with Sound Defenders, PLLC as per the attached Exhibit for calendar year 2025; and

WHEREAS, this contract specifies attorney qualifications, caseload standards, compensation and provisions for support services to ensure effective representation.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) hereby approves the attached Public Defender contract with Sound Defenders, PLLC for the amounts outlined in Appendix A for a term through Dec. 31, 2025; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the County Manager is authorized to execute the contract, attached hereto as Exhibit A, on behalf of Lewis County.

DONE IN OPEN SESSION this 4th day of November, 2025.