FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACT PLAN
APPENDIX B
I. ADMINISTRATION OF APPELLATE PANEL
A. The Federal Public Defender shall maintain a list of qualified individuals to handle appointments on appeal. The list shall include individuals with a proven commitment to the defense function, who are learned in the practice of federal criminal law and have demonstrated excellence in writing skills.
Upon request from the district court or the Court of Appeals, the Federal Public Defender shall select an attorney from the Appellate Panel and assign her or him to a case with due regard to the complexity of the issues on appeal and the equitable distribution of cases to all Panel members. The Federal Public Defender shall facilitate formal appointment and processing for selected counsel.
B. In selecting individuals for placement on the Appellate Panel, the Federal Public Defender shall take steps to assure appropriate diversity and geographic balance within the Western District of Washington.