2025-07-15 Public Defense updatePublic Defense Update
July 15, 2025
3 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Brummer, Commissioner Pollock, Commissioner Swope, County Manager Ryan
Barrett, Judge Wade Samuelson, Shad Hail, Judge Andrew Toynbee, Judge RW Buzzard, Clerk Scott
Tinney, Brad Banks, Paul, Natalie Mauermann, Rachel Hunt, Becky Butler, Paul Jewell, Chris Baum,
Dahkota Harmanson, Monique Shedd, Jonathan Meyer, David Bailey, Brittany Halverson, Jake Clark,
Derek Young, Undersheriff Engelbertson, Rep. Peter Abbarno, Rachel Tiller
Guest(s): Unnamed guest
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Public comment: None.
Paul Jewell reviewed state-mandated changes to caseload standards, which decrease the caseloads by
about two-thirds, roughly tripling the direct costs to counties.
Chris Baum and Derek Young noted that Supreme Court testimony on the topic appeared to come from
attorneys who work with counties that do not have smooth-running operations. They noted that Lewis
County’s program operates well.
Becky Butler said the 10 percent cut to caseload standards outlined in Supreme Court Order 25700-A-
1644 is effective Jan. 1.
Commissioner Pollock made a motion to proceed with the 10 percent caseload reduction effective
Jan. 1, 2026, in compliance with Supreme Court Order 25700-A-1644. Commissioner Swope seconded.
Motion passed 3-0.
Becky Butler discussed Supreme Court Order 25700-A-1653, which shortens the timeframe for
arraigning criminal defendants and requesting bail. The order shortens the timeline to three days
instead of 14 days.
Becky outlined the process by which the county can update county code regarding public defense.
Meeting adjourned at 4:05 p.m.