HB 2039 - DIGEST

     Creates a death penalty appellate unit within the office of public defense to:  (1) Provide legal representation to indigent defendants under a sentence of death who have a constitutional right to counsel in filing and prosecuting direct appeals challenging the trial court convictions and sentences; and

     (2) provide legal representation to indigent defendants under a sentence of death who have a statutory right to counsel under RCW 10.73.150 to file and prosecute motions or petitions for collateral attack of the trial court convictions and sentences and who request counsel.

     Transfers all powers, duties, and functions of the supreme court and the office of the administrator for the courts pertaining to the appointment of attorneys in death penalty appellate cases to the office of public defense beginning January 1, 2000.