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Criminal Defense Training Academy (CDTA) Application- Fall 2026- Ellensburg, WA

Apply now to join the 2026 Fall CDTA!

Application Deadline:
August 15th, 2026
*We will add late applications to a waitlist depending on space availability.

EVENT DETAILS-

WHAT:
The Criminal Defense Training Academy (CDTA) is a five-day interactive training program designed to help you build fundamental skills for representing persons charged with crimes. For example, we will practice client interviewing, cross-examining witnesses, and making objections at trial. The training will consist of lectures by subject matter experts and interactive training activities in small groups. You will work, have fun, and build connections with other students and faculty.
To learn more about CDTA, check out our CDTA Graduates Pages: https://opd.wa.gov/attorneys/continuing-legal-education/criminal-defense-training-academy


WHEN:
This year’s CDTA will happen over two sessions:
  • Session I: September 17 & 18, 2026
  • Session II: October 14, 15, & 16, 2026
*Attendance at both sessions is mandatory

WHERE:
Central Washington University
400 E University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926

COST:
$100.00 for participation in the complete 5-day program which includes lunch for each day and a training sweatshirt.
*Travel arrangements and expenses will be the participant's responsibility.

HOW TO APPLY:
Submitting this application does not guarantee you a spot in the program.
The CDTA has a competitive application process; only 36 applicants will be selected to participate. You will be notified of whether you have been selected soon after that. Waitlist notifications will happen on a rolling basis until space is filled. Payment is required after you receive notice of being selected.
All Washington attorneys working in public defense are welcome to apply, but selection priority will be given to those who are:
  • Newer to public defense practice;
  • From geographic locations that have fewer training opportunities; and
  • Committed to engaging in an interactive learning environment.

CLE:
25-30 CLE credits, including ethics. (PENDING)
All program participants will receive a CDTA certificate, be listed among the 2025 graduating class on www.opd.wa.gov, and receive a program sweatshirt.
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CONTACT:
Travis Stearns- travis.stearns@opd.wa.gov
(360) 979-6540
Cassidy Sartin- cassidy.sartin@opd.wa.gov
(564) 250-2940

1.Full Name as it appears on your active (or pending) WSBA Bar license:(Required.)
2.WSBA Bar Number:
(enter "Pending" if applicable)(Required.)
3.Postal address:(Required.)
4.Email address:(Required.)
5.I work in:(Required.)
6.My practice is:(Required.)
7.Describe your current caseload including case types, and private pay vs. public defense cases
(e.g., In a year I get approx. 200 public defense cases at Springfield Municipal Court. I also typically get 1-2 private pay felonies per month. I sometimes take family law cases):(Required.)
8.Court(s) in which I receive public defense appointments (please specify city or county name):(Required.)
9.Number of years practicing law:(Required.)
10.Number of years you have had public defense cases:(Required.)
11.Have you attended the CDTA before?
12.Describe why you are interested in attending the Criminal Defense Training Academy and what you hope to do with what you learn:(Required.)