Get relief from LFOs
If you were convicted of a crime in Washington State, you can ask a judge to cancel (waive) non-restitution interest that has built up and reduce the Legal Financial Obligations (LFOs) that the judge imposed on you at sentencing. (Forms and instructions)
1. Fast facts
Legal financial obligations (LFOs) are the costs, fees, fines, and victim restitution, plus 12% interest, that courts put on criminal defendants at the time of sentencing. Private collection agencies are authorized by law to add another 19% to 50%.
The court rules have changed to provide some relief from LFOs. You can read the rule at General Rule 39. The amount of relief you can get depends on the type of conviction, the types of LFOs assessed, and your financial resources. You must file a Petition and follow a court process to get this relief.
Living With Conviction provides legal information and help related to LFOs including the Justice in Motion app that can help you complete the forms in this guide. Civil Survival also has information about reducing LFOs and can help you get a free copy of your WA state criminal history report.