Spokane's Court Backlog: Crisis Ahead
Spokane News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · The Daily News Now!
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Show Notes
Spokanes city court faces a record-breaking caseload, exacerbated by new state rules limiting public defenders case capacity. This mismatch is causing a serious backlog, with cases potentially delayed or dismissed due to strict speedy trial deadlines. The public defenders office has already reached its limit, sending out over one hundred sixty notices stating theyre unable to take on more cases without breaking the law. With ninety percent of defendants unable to afford private attorneys, the strain on the system is significant, threatening rights to quick trials and public safety. City leaders are implementing solutions, including hiring law student interns, pushing for additional public defender funding, and boosting pay to attract better talent. Theyre also screening charges early, expanding diversion programs, and guiding officers towards services instead of citations. However, chief public defender Nick Anthos warns that the current staff may need to triple over the next ten years to keep up with the growing demands.
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