Become a member

If you are practicing any amount of criminal defense, you owe it to yourself and your clients to be a part of WACDL.
 
WACDL's publications, educational programs, and committees provide the support you need to stay informed about, succeed in, and influence the practice of criminal law.


 


 

Auto-Renewal Policy

You asked and we heard you! To ensure uninterrupted access to all the benefits of your membership, we have implemented an auto-renewal process. When you input your card information, your membership will automatically renew on its anniversary date each year, and your card will be charged accordingly.

If you prefer to opt out of the auto-renewal, please contact our office at memberservices@wacdl.org

Thank you for being a valued member of our community!

Membership Dues

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of support to criminal defense attorneys throughout the state. To strengthen the services we offer, we have made the necessary decision to increase membership dues. We have implemented very limited dues increases since 2018-2019, including through the COVID-19 pandemic. The present dues increase is tied to the present revenue needs of the organization and our desire to provide a higher level of member support.

 With your support, we can continue to enhance and expand our services, including:
  • Submitting Amicus Briefs: Providing critical legal perspectives in key cases.
  • Advocating for Reform in Olympia: Championing due process and justice.
  • Hosting Timely and Relevant CLEs: Ensuring you stay informed and equipped with the latest legal knowledge.
  • Exclusive Listserv: Connecting you with fellow members for insights and advice.
  • Strike Force: Providing immediate assistance for urgent legal matters.
  • Upcoming Mentorship Program: Facilitating guidance and support through our new mentorship initiative.
  • Monthly State Caselaw Updates: Providing you with timely insights into the evolving legal landscape.
  • Scholarship Opportunities to NCDC and WACDL Programming: Supporting your professional development and growth
Your continued commitment and support make these vital services possible. 

If membership dues pose a financial hardship, please reach out to our office. We do not want the membership rates to be a barrier to being a part of WACDL’s community.

For any questions or assistance, please feel free to reach out to us at memberservices@wacdl.org.

Membership Types

LAWYERS

  • Private Practice ($375): Individuals in their first or second year of legal practice  may use the code 1&2PRIVATE for $200 off their membership.
  • Public Defender ($195): This category is for individuals who obtain all their income from assigned cases (e.g., no private cases). Those in their first or second year of legal practice may use the code 1&2PUBLIC for $20 off their membership.
  • Public Defender Firm ($175 per person): For firms with at least 5 public defenders joining WACDL.
  • Law Professor ($210): For full-time law professors.
  • Law Student ($20): For full-time or part-time law students.
  • Retired ($190): For retired lawyers who are no longer taking paid cases.


ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Associate members are non-lawyers involved with the criminal justice system. Please select the appropriate associate member category:

  • working full-time in a public defender office ($160)
  • staff of a law office ($210)
  • other ($245)
CONTRIBUTING LAWYERS

Care about our work and eager to further support our mission? We encourage you to renew your membership as a Patron or Sustaining Member. Contributing Members are noted in WACDL's Annual Report and will receive exclusive updates on WACDL's programmatic work. As a patron member, you receive a 25% discount on all of WACDL's online CLE programs, and a 50% discount on the annual conference registration fee.
 
  • Sustaining ($610) 
  • Patron ($985)