Welcome to Skagit County

July 1st, 2008

Skagit County cuts reliance on outside legal counsel

SKAGIT COUNTY – For the first time since at least 1994, Skagit County is no longer actively employing outside law firms on any significant legal matters. “One of my central campaign promises was to reduce the County’s reliance on outside legal counsel, and I believe that promise has been kept,” said Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney Richard Weyrich. “Our in-house Civil Division attorneys have done a superb job picking up the additional workload,” said Weyrich.

A 2006 Select Budget Advisory Committee identified outsourced legal costs as a significant factor impacting the County’s budget. In 2005 alone, Skagit County spent over $2,000,000 on Seattle law firms. “In a world of decreased tax revenues and unfunded mandates from state and federal government, the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney is proud to help the County meet its budget challenges,” Weyrich added.

The County retains several outside law firms on retainer to provide advice in specialized matters such as land use, water rights and flood control. None are actively employed in significant legal matters at present.

For further information, contact:

Will Honea
Chief Civil Deputy
Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney
360-336-9460