title: RCW 2.48.090

text:
If an applicant under RCW 2.48.070 through 2.48.110 is, at the time he or she applies for admission to practice law in the state of Washington, no longer in the armed forces of the United States, he or she may establish the requirements of the proviso in RCW 2.48.070 as follows:
(1) If he or she shall have been an enlisted person, by producing documentation he or she is a veteran as defined by RCW 41.04.007, and by the certificates of at least two active members of the Washington state bar association.
(2) If he or she shall have been an officer, by an affidavit showing that he or she is a veteran as defined in RCW 41.04.007, and by the certificates of at least two active members of the Washington state bar association.
[ 2024 c 146 s 7; 2011 c 336 s 64; 1945 c 181 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 138-7C.]
Notes:
Intent—2024 c 146: See note following RCW 73.04.005.

catchline: Admission of veterans—Establishment of requirements if discharged.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 2.48.110

text:
An applicant applying for admission to practice law under the provisions of RCW 2.48.070 through 2.48.090, shall pay the same fees as are required of residents of the state of Washington seeking admission to practice law by examination.
[ 1945 c 181 s 5; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 138-7E.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Admission of veterans—Fees of veterans.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 2.48.130

text:
The annual membership fees for active members shall be payable on or before February 1st of each year. The board of governors may establish the amount of such annual membership fee to be effective each year: PROVIDED, That written notice of any proposed increase in membership fee shall be sent to active members not less than sixty days prior to the effective date of such increase: PROVIDED FURTHER, That the board of governors may establish the fee at a reduced rate for those who have been active members for less than five years in this state or elsewhere.
[ 1957 c 138 s 1; 1953 c 256 s 1; 1933 c 94 s 9; RRS s 138-9.]

catchline: Membership fee—Active.


title: RCW 2.48.140

text:
The annual membership fee for inactive members shall be the sum of two dollars, payable on or before the first day of February of each year.
[ 1955 c 34 s 1; 1933 c 94 s 10; RRS s 138-10.]

catchline: Membership fee—Inactive.


title: RCW 2.48.150

text:
Applicants for admission to the bar upon accredited certificates or upon examination, not having been admitted to the bar in another state or territory, shall pay a fee of twenty-five dollars and all other applicants a fee of fifty dollars. Said admission fees shall be used to pay the expenses incurred in connection with examining and admitting applicants to the bar, including salaries of examiners, and any balance remaining at the close of each biennium shall be paid to the state treasurer and be by him or her credited to the general fund.
[ 2011 c 336 s 65; 1933 c 94 s 11; RRS s 138-11.]
Notes:
Rules of court: Admission—APR 3(d).

catchline: Admission fees.


title: RCW 2.48.160

text:
Any member failing to pay any fees after the same become due, and after two months' written notice of his or her delinquency, must be suspended from membership in the state bar, but may be reinstated upon payment of accrued fees and such penalties as may be imposed by the board of governors, not exceeding double the amount of the delinquent fee.
[ 2011 c 336 s 66; 1933 c 94 s 12; RRS s 138-12.]

catchline: Suspension for nonpayment of fees.


title: RCW 2.48.166

text:
The Washington state supreme court may provide by rule that no person who has been certified by the department of social and health services as a person who is in noncompliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order as provided in RCW 74.20A.320 may be admitted to the practice of law in this state, and that any member of the Washington state bar association who has been certified by the department of social and health services as a person who is in noncompliance with a support order or a residential or visitation order as provided in RCW 74.20A.320 shall be immediately suspended from membership. The court's rules may provide for review of an application for admission or reinstatement of membership after the department of social and health services has issued a release stating that the person is in compliance with the order.
[ 1997 c 58 s 810.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: 1997 c 58 s 886 requiring a court to order certification of noncompliance with residential provisions of a court-ordered parenting plan was vetoed. Provisions ordering the department of social and health services to certify a responsible parent based on a court order to certify for noncompliance with residential provisions of a parenting plan were vetoed. See RCW 74.20A.320.
Intent—1997 c 58: "The legislature intends that the license suspension program established in chapter 74.20A RCW be implemented fairly to ensure that child support obligations are met and that parents comply with residential and visitation orders. However, being mindful of the separations of powers and responsibilities among the branches of government, the legislature strongly encourages the state supreme court to adopt rules providing for suspension and denial of licenses related to the practice of law to those individuals who are in noncompliance with a support order or a residential or visitation order." [ 1997 c 58 s 809.]
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.

catchline: Admission to or suspension from practice—Noncompliance with support order—Rules.


title: RCW 2.48.170

text:
No person shall practice law in this state subsequent to the first meeting of the state bar unless he or she shall be an active member thereof as hereinbefore defined: PROVIDED, That a member of the bar in good standing in any other state or jurisdiction shall be entitled to appear in the courts of this state under such rules as the board of governors may prescribe.
[ 2011 c 336 s 67; 1933 c 94 s 13; RRS s 138-13.]
Notes:
Rules of court: Admission—APR 5.

catchline: Only active members may practice law.


title: RCW 2.48.180

text:
(1) As used in this section:
(a) "Legal provider" means an active member in good standing of the state bar, and any other person authorized by the Washington state supreme court to engage in full or limited practice of law;
(b) "Nonlawyer" means a person to whom the Washington supreme court has granted a limited authorization to practice law but who practices law outside that authorization, and a person who is not an active member in good standing of the state bar, including persons who are disbarred or suspended from membership;
(c) "Ownership interest" means the right to control the affairs of a business, or the right to share in the profits of a business, and includes a loan to the business when the interest on the loan is based upon the income of the business or the loan carries more than a commercially reasonable rate of interest.
(2) The following constitutes unlawful practice of law:
(a) A nonlawyer practices law, or holds himself or herself out as entitled to practice law;
(b) A legal provider holds an investment or ownership interest in a business primarily engaged in the practice of law, knowing that a nonlawyer holds an investment or ownership interest in the business;
(c) A nonlawyer knowingly holds an investment or ownership interest in a business primarily engaged in the practice of law;
(d) A legal provider works for a business that is primarily engaged in the practice of law, knowing that a nonlawyer holds an investment or ownership interest in the business; or
(e) A nonlawyer shares legal fees with a legal provider.
(3)(a) Unlawful practice of law is a crime. A single violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
(b) Each subsequent violation of this section, whether alleged in the same or in subsequent prosecutions, is a class C felony punishable according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(4) Nothing contained in this section affects the power of the courts to grant injunctive or other equitable relief or to punish as for contempt.
(5) Whenever a legal provider or a person licensed by the state in a business or profession is convicted, enjoined, or found liable for damages or a civil penalty or other equitable relief under this section, the plaintiff's attorney shall provide written notification of the judgment to the appropriate regulatory or disciplinary body or agency.
(6) A violation of this section is cause for discipline and constitutes unprofessional conduct that could result in any regulatory penalty provided by law, including refusal, revocation, or suspension of a business or professional license, or right or admission to practice. Conduct that constitutes a violation of this section is unprofessional conduct in violation of RCW 18.130.180.
(7) In a proceeding under this section it is a defense if proven by the defendant by a preponderance of the evidence that, at the time of the offense, the conduct alleged was authorized by the rules of professional conduct or the admission to practice rules, or Washington business and professions licensing statutes or rules.
(8) Independent of authority granted to the attorney general, the prosecuting attorney may petition the superior court for an injunction against a person who has violated this chapter. Remedies in an injunctive action brought by a prosecuting attorney are limited to an order enjoining, restraining, or preventing the doing of any act or practice that constitutes a violation of this chapter and imposing a civil penalty of up to five thousand dollars for each violation. The prevailing party in the action may, in the discretion of the court, recover its reasonable investigative costs and the costs of the action including a reasonable attorney's fee. The degree of proof required in an action brought under this subsection is a preponderance of the evidence. An action under this subsection must be brought within three years after the violation of this chapter occurred.
[ 2003 c 53 s 2; 2001 c 310 s 2. Prior: 1995 c 285 s 26; 1989 c 117 s 13; 1933 c 94 s 14; RRS s 138-14.]
Notes:
Rules of court: RLD 1.1(h).
Intent—2003 c 53: "The legislature intends by this act to reorganize criminal provisions throughout the Revised Code of Washington to clarify and simplify the identification and referencing of crimes. It is not intended that this act effectuate any substantive change to any criminal provision in the Revised Code of Washington." [ 2003 c 53 s 1.]
Effective date—2003 c 53: "This act takes effect July 1, 2004." [ 2003 c 53 s 423.]
Purpose—2001 c 310: "The purpose of this act is to respond to State v. Thomas, 103 Wn. App. 800, by reenacting and ranking, without changes, legislation relating to the crime of unlawful practice of law, enacted as sections 26 and 27, chapter 285, Laws of 1995." [ 2001 c 310 s 1.]
Effective date—2001 c 310: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 14, 2001]." [ 2001 c 310 s 5.]
Effective date—1995 c 285: See RCW 48.30A.900.
Practicing law with disbarred attorney: RCW 2.48.220(9).

catchline: Definitions—Unlawful practice a crime—Cause for discipline—Unprofessional conduct—Defense—Injunction—Remedies—Costs—Attorneys' fees—Time limit for action.


title: RCW 2.48.190

text:
No person shall be permitted to practice as an attorney or counselor at law or to do work of a legal nature for compensation, or to represent himself or herself as an attorney or counselor at law or qualified to do work of a legal nature, unless he or she is a bona fide resident of this state and has been admitted to practice law in this state: PROVIDED, That any person may appear and conduct his or her own case in any action or proceeding brought by or against him or her, or may appear in his or her own behalf in the small claims department of the district court: AND PROVIDED FURTHER, That an attorney of another state may appear as counselor in a court of this state without admission, upon satisfying the court that his or her state grants the same right to attorneys of this state.
[ 2023 c 102 s 2; 1987 c 202 s 107; 1921 c 126 s 4; RRS s 139-4. Prior: 1919 c 100 s 1; 1917 c 115 s 1.]
Notes:
Rules of court: Admission—APR 5.
Reviser's note: Last proviso, see later enactment, RCW 2.48.170.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.

catchline: Qualifications on admission to practice.


title: RCW 2.48.200

text:
No person shall practice law who holds a commission as judge in any court of record, or as sheriff or coroner; nor shall the clerk of the supreme court, the court of appeals, or of the superior court or any deputy thereof practice in the court of which he or she is clerk or deputy clerk: PROVIDED, It shall be unlawful for a deputy prosecuting attorney, or for the employee, partner, or agent of a prosecuting attorney, or for an attorney occupying offices with a prosecuting attorney, to appear for an adverse interest in any proceeding in which a prosecuting attorney is appearing, or to appear in any suit, action or proceeding in which a prosecuting attorney is prohibited by law from appearing, but nothing herein shall prohibit a prosecuting attorney or a deputy prosecuting attorney from appearing in any action or proceeding for an interest divergent from that represented in the same action or proceeding by another attorney or special attorney in or for the same office, so long as such appearances are pursuant to the duties of prosecuting attorneys as set out in RCW 36.27.020 and such appearances are consistent with the code of professional responsibility or other code of ethics adopted by the Washington state supreme court, but nothing herein shall preclude a judge or justice of a court of this state from finishing any business undertaken in a court of the United States prior to him or her becoming a judge or justice.
[ 1992 c 225 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 19 s 3; 1971 c 81 s 13; 1921 c 126 s 5; RRS s 139-5.]
Notes:
Rules of court: Judicial ethics—CJC.
Administrator for the courts, assistant not to practice law: RCW 2.56.020.
Attorney general, deputies, assistants—Private practice of law prohibited: RCW 43.10.115, 43.10.120, 43.10.125; but see RCW 43.10.130.
Clerk not to practice law: RCW 2.32.090.
Coroner not to practice law: RCW 36.24.170.
Judges may not practice law: State Constitution Art. 4 s 19 and RCW 2.06.090, 35.20.170; but see RCW 2.28.040.
Prosecuting and deputy prosecuting attorneys—Private practice prohibited in certain counties: RCW 36.27.060.
Sheriff not to practice law: RCW 36.28.110.

catchline: Restrictions on practice by certain officers.


title: RCW 2.48.220

text:
An attorney or counselor may be disbarred or suspended for any of the following causes arising after his or her admission to practice:
(1) His or her conviction of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, in which case the record of conviction shall be conclusive evidence.
(2) Willful disobedience or violation of an order of the court requiring him or her to do or forbear an act connected with, or in the course of, his or her profession, which he or she ought in good faith to do or forbear.
(3) Violation of his or her oath as an attorney, or of his or her duties as an attorney and counselor.
(4) Corruptly or willfully, and without authority, appearing as attorney for a party to an action or proceeding.
(5) Lending his or her name to be used as attorney and counselor by another person who is not an attorney and counselor.
(6) For the commission of any act involving moral turpitude, dishonesty, or corruption, whether the same be committed in the course of his or her relations as an attorney or counselor at law, or otherwise, and whether the same constitute a felony or misdemeanor or not; and if the act constitute a felony or misdemeanor, conviction thereof in a criminal proceeding shall not be a condition precedent to disbarment or suspension from practice therefor.
(7) Misrepresentation or concealment of a material fact made in his or her application for admission or in support thereof.
(8) Disbarment by a foreign court of competent jurisdiction.
(9) Practicing law with or in cooperation with a disbarred or suspended attorney, or maintaining an office for the practice of law in a room or office occupied or used in whole or in part by a disbarred or suspended attorney, or permitting a disbarred or suspended attorney to use his or her name for the practice of law, or practicing law for or on behalf of a disbarred or suspended attorney, or practicing law under any arrangement or understanding for division of fees or compensation of any kind with a disbarred or suspended attorney or with any person not a licensed attorney.
(10) Gross incompetency in the practice of the profession.
(11) Violation of the ethics of the profession.
[ 2011 c 336 s 68; 1921 c 126 s 14; 1909 c 139 s 7; RRS s 139-14.]
Notes:
Rules of court: RLD 1.1.

catchline: Grounds of disbarment or suspension.


title: RCW 2.48.230

text:
The code of ethics of the American Bar Association shall be the standard of ethics for the members of the bar of this state.
[ 1921 c 126 s 15; RRS s 139-15. Prior: 1917 c 115 s 20.]
Notes:
Rules of court: See Code of Professional Responsibility, also Code of Judicial Conduct.
Reviser's note: RCW 2.48.190, 2.48.200, 2.48.220, and 2.48.230 are the only sections of the earlier act relating to the admission, regulation, disbarment, etc., of attorneys which are thought not to be embraced within the general repeal contained in the state bar act of 1933.

catchline: Code of ethics.


title: RCW 2.50.010

text:
Legal aid is the rendition, without compensation, of professional services by an active member of the Washington State Bar Association to or for any indigent person unable to pay a reasonable attorney's fee determined in accordance with the established code of legal ethics.
[ 1939 c 93 s 1; RRS s 10007-201. Formerly RCW 74.36.010.]

catchline: Legal aid defined.


title: RCW 2.50.020

text:
The promotion of organized legal aid is hereby declared to be in the public interest.
[ 1939 c 93 s 2; RRS s 10007-202. Formerly RCW 74.36.020.]

catchline: Public interest.


title: RCW 2.50.040

text:
The board of county commissioners (hereinafter called the county board) is empowered to find by resolution the existence of a necessity in such county for organized legal aid. Such resolution shall specify the amount of county funds thereby to be allocated for and expended in the operation of a legal aid bureau during the period of the fiscal year or the remainder thereof. Within ten days after the passage of such a resolution, the commissioners shall cause a certified copy to be transmitted to the board of governors of the Washington State Bar Association (hereinafter called the bar board).
[ 1939 c 93 s 4; RRS s 10007-204. Formerly RCW 74.36.040.]

catchline: Declaration of necessity by board of county commissioners.


title: RCW 2.50.050

text:
A legal aid bureau (hereinafter called the bureau), is an agency for the rendition of organized legal aid to indigent persons resident in the county, consisting of one director, who shall be an attorney resident in the county, and who shall be in good standing and active membership in the Washington State Bar Association, together with such professional and other personnel, such office facilities, and other equipment, as may be determined by the bar board and be financed by the county board.
[ 1939 c 93 s 5; RRS s 10007-205. Formerly RCW 74.36.050.]

catchline: Legal aid bureau defined.


title: RCW 2.50.060

text:
Upon receipt of a certified copy of such resolution the bar board is empowered and, within sixty days thereafter, is obligated to create and continue a legal aid bureau as soon and as long as the necessary funds so allocated are made available by the county board, all expenditures for the bureau to be limited to county funds so supplied, except only as hereinafter authorized. The bar board is vested with the ultimate power to control by its rules and regulations such bureau, the immediate supervision of which in actual operation shall be by the bar board itself or by a committee of its selection.
[ 1939 c 93 s 6; RRS s 10007-206. Formerly RCW 74.36.060.]

catchline: Board of governors—Authority.


title: RCW 2.50.070

text:
The legal aid county committee (hereinafter called the committee), if created and continued by resolution of the bar board, shall consist of three members chosen by the bar board as follows: A member of the bar board, who shall be chair, a judge of the superior court of the county, and an active member of the Washington state bar association, resident in the county.
[ 2011 c 336 s 69; 1939 c 93 s 7; RRS s 10007-207. Formerly RCW 74.36.070.]

catchline: Legal aid county committee created.


title: RCW 2.50.080

text:
Among the powers to supervise the actual operation of any such bureau, which shall be exercised either by the bar board itself or in its discretion by the committee, are the following:
(1) To appoint and remove at will the director and to fix the amount of his or her salary not in excess of two hundred dollars per month;
(2) To engage and discharge all other employees of the bureau and to fix their salaries or remuneration;
(3) To assist the director in supplying the free services of attorneys for the bureau;
(4) To cooperate with the dean of any law school now or hereafter established within this state respecting the participation of law students in the rendition of services by the bureau under the guidance of the director—however, by this provision, no law student shall be deemed authorized to represent as an attorney in a court of record any legal aid client;
(5) To require of the director periodically written statements of account and written reports upon any and all subjects within the operation of the bureau;
(6) To prescribe rules and regulations, always subject to the bar board, for determination of the indigent persons who are entitled to legal aid, for determination of the kinds of legal problems and cases subject to legal aid, and for determination of all operative legal aid policies not inconsistent with this chapter;
(7) To advise the county board, for its budget upon its written request, as to the estimated amount of county funds reasonably required to effectively operate the bureau for the ensuing fiscal year;
(8) To receive county funds allocated by the county board for the bureau, and to render an account thereof at the times and in the manner reasonably required by the county board;
(9) To disburse such county funds, after receipt thereof, solely for the purposes contemplated by this chapter.
[ 2011 c 336 s 70; 1939 c 93 s 8; RRS s 10007-208. Formerly RCW 74.36.080.]

catchline: Supervision.


title: RCW 2.50.090

text:
For the purpose of promoting organized legal aid, the bar board is empowered to receive and disburse, at its discretion, a nominal registration fee (not in excess of fifty cents), which it may require of legal aid applicants, and also donations in any sum of private funds.
[ 1939 c 93 s 9; RRS s 10007-209. Formerly RCW 74.36.090.]

catchline: Registration fees and private funds.


title: RCW 2.50.100

text:
No legal aid shall be rendered by or through any bureau as to any matter which, in the opinion of the director or the committee is not a proper subject of legal aid. No legal aid shall be given concerning matters relating to claims or litigation commonly handled on a contingent fee basis, nor to the defense of criminal charges in court.
[ 1939 c 93 s 10; RRS s 10007-210. Formerly RCW 74.36.100.]

catchline: Limitation of legal aid.


title: RCW 2.50.110

text:
No attorney's fee shall be charged to or received from any legal aid client as to any legal aid matter handled by or through the bureau. All attorneys' fees and court costs collected from any third party by the bureau in the name of any legal aid client shall become a part of the bureau's operation funds.
[ 1939 c 93 s 11; RRS s 10007-211. Formerly RCW 74.36.110.]

catchline: Attorneys' fees.


title: RCW 2.50.120

text:
The county board in its discretion shall allocate funds for the purposes of the bureau from county funds available for public assistance and relief received from the levy of three mills as provided in section 17, chapter 180, Laws of 1937.
[ 1939 c 93 s 12; RRS s 10007-212. Formerly RCW 74.36.120.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: 1937 c 180 s 17 was repealed by 1939 c 216 s 35.

catchline: County funds.


title: RCW 2.50.125

text:
A city of any class or any code city may appropriate funds in any amount for the purposes of this chapter.
[ 1974 ex.s. c 5 s 1.]

catchline: Cities authorized to appropriate funds.


title: RCW 2.50.130

text:
The county board is empowered to find by resolution the nonexistence of a necessity in such county for organized legal aid. Within ten days after the passage of such a resolution the county board shall cause a certified copy to be transmitted to the bar board. Upon receipt of a certified copy of such resolution the bar board is empowered and, within sixty days thereafter, is obligated to discontinue the legal aid bureau—unless it is subsequently maintained in the discretion of the bar board and financed by funds other than county funds. Nothing in this chapter shall prevent a county board from adopting successive resolutions declaring the existence or nonexistence of a necessity for organized legal aid, but no bureau actually created as a result of such a resolution shall be discontinued by a resolution of revocation within sixty days thereafter.
[ 1939 c 93 s 13; RRS s 10007-213. Formerly RCW 74.36.130.]

catchline: Revocation of declaration of necessity.


title: RCW 2.50.140

text:
No county funds shall be expended for legal aid except in accordance with this chapter, but nothing in this chapter shall limit the powers of the Washington State Bar Association, or its board of governors, to promote or render legal aid independent of county financial support.
[ 1939 c 93 s 14; RRS s 10007-214. Formerly RCW 74.36.140.]

catchline: Washington State Bar Association not restricted.


title: RCW 2.50.150

text:
The provisions of section 6 of chapter 180 of the Laws of 1937 shall not be applicable to a bureau or a committee as authorized by this chapter, or to the bar board or the Washington State Bar Association.
[ 1939 c 93 s 15; RRS s 10007-215. Formerly RCW 74.36.150.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: 1937 c 180 s 6 was repealed by 1939 c 216 s 35.

catchline: Certain other acts not applicable.


title: RCW 2.50.160

text:
The provisions of this chapter are not exclusive. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as placing a limitation on the establishment of alternative methods or systems for providing legal aid. Counties are hereby authorized to expend county funds for the establishment of such methods or systems of providing legal aid as shall be deemed in the public interest by the county legislative body.
[ 1972 ex.s. c 109 s 1.]

catchline: Chapter not exclusive—Counties authorized to provide legal aid.


title: RCW 2.53.005

text:
The legislature finds that the provision of civil legal aid services to indigent persons is an important component of the state's responsibility to provide for the proper and effective administration of civil and criminal justice. The legislature further finds that state-funded legal aid services should be administered by an independent office of civil legal aid located within the judicial branch and subject to formal continuing oversight that includes bipartisan legislative representation.
[ 2005 c 105 s 1.]

catchline: Findings.


title: RCW 2.53.010

text:
(1) There is created a civil legal aid oversight committee consisting of the following members:
(a) Three persons appointed by the supreme court from a list of nominees submitted by the access to justice board, one of whom at the time of appointment is income eligible to receive state-funded civil legal aid;
(b) Two persons appointed by the board for judicial administration;
(c) Two senators, one from each of the two largest caucuses, appointed by the president of the senate; and two members of the house of representatives, one from each of the two largest caucuses, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives;
(d) One person appointed by the Washington state bar association; and
(e) One person appointed by the governor.
(2) During the term of his or her appointment, an appointee may not be employed by a state-funded legal aid provider.
(3) Members shall each serve a three-year term, subject to renewal for no more than one additional three-year term. The oversight committee shall develop rules that provide for the staggering of terms so that, after the first three years of the committee's existence, the terms of one-third of the members expire each year. Members of the oversight committee receive no compensation for their services as members of the oversight committee, but may be reimbursed for travel and other expenses in accordance with rules adopted by the office of financial management.
(4) The oversight committee shall: Oversee the activities of the office of civil legal aid created in RCW 2.53.020; review the performance of the director of the office of civil legal aid; and may, from time to time, make recommendations to the supreme court, the access to justice board, and the legislature regarding the provision of civil legal aid funded through RCW 2.53.030.
[ 2005 c 105 s 4.]

catchline: Civil legal aid oversight committee.


title: RCW 2.53.020

text:
(1) There is created an office of civil legal aid as an independent agency of the judicial branch.
(2) Activities of the office of civil legal aid shall be carried out by a director of civil legal aid services. The director of civil legal aid services shall be appointed by the supreme court from a list of three names forwarded by the access to justice board. Qualifications for the director include admission to practice law in this state for at least five years; experience in representation of low-income people in civil matters, which experience may be in the form of volunteer representation; knowledge of and demonstrated commitment to promoting access to the civil justice system for indigent persons; and proven managerial or supervisory experience. The director shall serve at the pleasure of the supreme court and receive a salary to be fixed by the oversight committee.
(3) The director shall:
(a) Contract with one or more qualified legal aid providers to provide civil legal aid services authorized by RCW 2.53.030;
(b) Monitor and oversee the use of state funding to ensure compliance with this chapter;
(c) Report quarterly to the civil legal aid oversight committee established in RCW 2.53.010 and the supreme court's access to justice board on the use of state funds for legal aid; periodically assess the most prevalent civil legal problems experienced by low-income people in Washington state and the capacity of the state-funded legal aid system to meet the legal needs arising from such problems; and report biennially on the status of access to the civil justice system for low-income people eligible for state-funded legal aid; and
(d) Submit budget requests.
(4) The office shall not provide direct representation of clients.
[ 2018 c 21 s 1; 2005 c 105 s 5.]

catchline: Office of civil legal aid—Director's duties.


title: RCW 2.53.025

text:
(1) The statewide children's legal representation program is established within the office of civil legal aid. The children's legal representation program shall ensure the provision of standards-based representation informed by best practice models, rigorous data analysis, race and other equity considerations that cause or perpetuate racial and other disparities in the child welfare system, involvement of stakeholders, including youth and young adults impacted by the system.
(2) The statewide children's legal representation program is responsible for implementation of RCW 13.34.212 and 2.53.045 except that it is the court's responsibility to appoint attorneys in dependency proceedings.
[ 2021 c 210 s 5.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 210: See note following RCW 13.34.090.

catchline: Statewide children's legal representation program.


title: RCW 2.53.030

text:
(1)(a) The legislature recognizes the ethical obligation of attorneys to represent clients without interference by third parties in the discharge of professional obligations to clients. The legislature further finds that the prevalence of civil legal problems experienced by low-income people in Washington state exceeds the capacity of the state-funded legal aid system to address. To ensure the most beneficial use of state resources, the legislature finds it appropriate to authorize legal assistance with respect to civil legal problems that directly affect important rights and basic needs of individual low-income residents and their families and to define certain limits on the use of state moneys appropriated for civil legal aid. Accordingly, moneys appropriated for civil legal aid pursuant to this section shall not be used for legal representation that is either outside the scope of or prohibited by this section.
(b) Nothing in this section is intended to limit the authority of existing entities, including but not limited to the Washington state bar association, the public disclosure commission, the state auditor, and the federal legal services corporation to resolve issues within their respective jurisdictions.
(2) Any money appropriated by the legislature for civil legal aid to indigent persons pursuant to this section shall be administered by the office of civil legal aid established under RCW 2.53.020, and shall be used solely for the purpose of contracting with qualified legal aid programs for legal representation of indigent persons in matters relating to: (a) Domestic relations and family law matters, (b) governmental assistance and services, (c) health care, (d) housing and utilities, (e) mortgage foreclosures, (f) consumer, financial services, credit, and bankruptcy, (g) employment, (h) rights of residents of long-term care facilities, (i) wills, estates, and living wills, (j) elder abuse, (k) guardianship, (l) disability rights, (m) education including special education, (n) administrative agency decisions, and (o) discrimination prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
(3) For purposes of this section, a "qualified legal aid program" means a not-for-profit corporation incorporated and operating exclusively in Washington which has received basic field funding for the provision of civil legal aid to indigents from the federal legal services corporation or that has received funding for civil legal aid for indigents under this section before July 1, 1997.
(4) When entering into a contract with a qualified legal aid provider under this section, the office of civil legal aid shall require the provider to provide legal aid in a manner that maximizes geographic access throughout the state and meets generally accepted standards for the delivery of civil legal aid.
(5) Funds distributed to qualified legal aid programs under this section may not be used directly or indirectly for:
(a) Lobbying.
(i) For purposes of this section, "lobbying" means any personal service, advertisement, telegram, telephone communication, letter, printed or written matter, or other device directly or indirectly intended to influence any member of congress or any other federal, state, or local nonjudicial official, whether elected or appointed:
(A) In connection with any act, bill, resolution, or similar legislation by the congress of the United States or by any state or local legislative body, or any administrative rule, rule-making activity, standard, rate, or other enactment by any federal, state, or local administrative agency;
(B) In connection with any referendum, initiative, constitutional amendment, or any similar procedure of the congress, any state legislature, any local council, or any similar governing body acting in a legislative capacity; or
(C) In connection with inclusion of any provision in a legislative measure appropriating funds to, or defining or limiting the functions or authority of, the recipient of funds under this section.
(ii) "Lobbying" does not include the response of an employee of a legal aid program to a written request from a governmental agency, an elected or appointed official, or committee on a specific matter. This exception does not authorize communication with anyone other than the requesting party, or agent or employee of such agency, official, or committee.
(b) Grass roots lobbying. For purposes of this section, "grass roots lobbying" means preparation, production, or dissemination of information the purpose of which is to encourage the public at large, or any definable segment thereof, to contact legislators or their staff in support of or in opposition to pending or proposed legislation; or contribute to or participate in a demonstration, march, rally, lobbying campaign, or letter writing or telephone campaign for the purpose of influencing the course of pending or proposed legislation.
(c) Class action lawsuits.
(d) Participating in or identifying the program with prohibited political activities. For purposes of this section, "prohibited political activities" means (i) any activity directed toward the success or failure of a political party, a candidate for partisan or nonpartisan office, a partisan political group, or a ballot measure; (ii) advertising or contributing or soliciting financial support for or against any candidate, political group, or ballot measure; or (iii) voter registration or transportation activities.
(e) Representation in fee-generating cases. For purposes of this section, "fee-generating" means a case that might reasonably be expected to result in a fee for legal aid if undertaken by a private attorney. The charging of a fee pursuant to subsection (6) of this section does not establish the fee-generating nature of a case.
A fee-generating case may be accepted when: (i) The case has been rejected by the local lawyer referral services or by two private attorneys; (ii) neither the referral service nor two private attorneys will consider the case without payment of a consultation fee; (iii) after consultation with the appropriate representatives of the private bar, the program has determined that the type of case is one that private attorneys do not ordinarily accept, or do not accept without prepayment of a fee; or (iv) the director of the program or the director's designee has determined that referral of the case to the private bar is not possible because documented attempts to refer similar cases in the past have been futile, or because emergency circumstances compel immediate action before referral can be made, but the client is advised that, if appropriate and consistent with professional responsibility, referral will be attempted at a later time.
(f) Organizing any association, union, or federation, or representing a labor union. However, nothing in this subsection (5)(f) prohibits the provision of legal aid to clients as otherwise permitted by this section.
(g) Picketing, demonstrations, strikes, or boycotts.
(h) Engaging in inappropriate solicitation. For purposes of this section, "inappropriate solicitation" means promoting the assertion of specific legal claims among persons who know of their rights to make a claim and who decline to do so. Nothing in this subsection precludes a legal aid program or its employees from providing information regarding legal rights and responsibilities or providing information regarding the program's services and intake procedures through community legal education activities, responding to an individual's specific question about whether the individual should consult with an attorney or take legal action, or responding to an individual's specific request for information about the individual's legal rights or request for assistance in connection with a specific legal problem.
(i) Conducting training programs that: (i) Advocate particular public policies; (ii) encourage or facilitate political activities, labor or antilabor activities, boycotts, picketing, strikes, or demonstrations; or (iii) attempt to influence legislation or rule making. Nothing in this subsection (5)(i) precludes representation of clients as otherwise permitted by this section.
(6) The office of civil legal aid may establish requirements for client participation in the provision of civil legal aid under this section, including but not limited to copayments and sliding fee scales.
(7)(a) Contracts entered into by the office of civil legal aid with qualified legal aid programs under this section must specify that the program's expenditures of moneys distributed under this section:
(i) Must be audited annually by an independent outside auditor. These audit results must be provided to the office of civil legal aid; and
(ii) Are subject to audit by the state auditor.
(b)(i) Any entity auditing a legal aid program under this section shall have access to all records of the legal aid program to the full extent necessary to determine compliance with this section, with the exception of confidential information protected by the United States Constitution, the state Constitution, the attorney-client privilege, and applicable rules of attorney conduct.
(ii) The legal aid program shall have a system allowing for production of case-specific information, including client eligibility and case type, to demonstrate compliance with this section, with the exception of confidential information protected by the United States Constitution, the state Constitution, the attorney-client privilege, and applicable rules of attorney conduct. Such information shall be available to any entity that audits the program.
(8) The office of civil legal aid must recover or withhold amounts determined by an audit to have been used in violation of this section.
(9) The office of civil legal aid may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2021 c 58 s 1; 2018 c 21 s 2; 2005 c 105 s 3; 1997 c 319 s 2; 1995 c 399 s 62; 1992 c 54 s 4. Formerly RCW 43.08.260.]
Notes:
Intent—1997 c 319: "It is the intent of the legislature to promote the provision of civil legal services to indigent persons, subject to available funds. To the extent that funds are appropriated for civil legal services for the indigent, the legislature intends that civil legal services be offered within an oversight framework that ensures accountability." [ 1997 c 319 s 1.]
Effective date—1992 c 54: See note following RCW 36.18.020.

catchline: Public funds appropriated for civil legal aid to indigent persons—Use—Distribution formula—Audit—Rules.


title: RCW 2.53.045

text:
(1) Money appropriated by the legislature for legal services provided by an attorney appointed pursuant to RCW 13.34.212 must be administered by the office of civil legal aid established under RCW 2.53.020.
(2) The statewide children's legal representation program shall enter into contracts with attorneys and agencies for the provision of legal services under RCW 2.53.025 to remain within appropriated amounts.
(3) Prior to distributing state funds under subsection (2) of this section, the statewide children's legal representation program must verify that attorneys providing legal representation to children under RCW 13.34.212 meet the standards of practice, caseload limits, and training guidelines adopted by the children's representation work group established in section 9, chapter 210, Laws of 2021.
[ 2021 c 210 s 7; 2018 c 21 s 3; 2014 c 108 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 210: See note following RCW 13.34.090.
Finding—Construction—Effective date—2014 c 108: See notes following RCW 13.34.100.

catchline: Fund distribution for attorneys appointed in dependency proceedings.


title: RCW 2.53.050

text:
(1) Moneys appropriated by the legislature for legal services provided by an attorney appointed pursuant to RCW 59.18.640 must be administered by the office of civil legal aid established under RCW 2.53.020. The office of civil legal aid must enter into contracts with attorneys and agencies for the provision of legal services under RCW 59.18.640 to remain within appropriated amounts.
(2) The legislature recognizes that the office of civil legal aid needs time to properly implement the right to attorney legal representation for indigent tenants under and consistent with RCW 59.18.640. Within 90 days after April 22, 2021, the office of civil legal aid must submit to the appropriate legislative committees a plan to fully implement the tenant representation program under and consistent with RCW 59.18.640 within 12 months of April 22, 2021.
[ 2021 c 115 s 9.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—Application—Effective date—2021 c 115: See notes following RCW 59.18.620.

catchline: Fund distribution for attorneys appointed for indigent tenants.


title: RCW 2.53.055

text:
(1) Subject to amounts specifically appropriated for this purpose, the role of kinship care legal aid coordinator is hereby created at the office of civil legal aid. The office may contract with a separate nonprofit legal aid organization to satisfy the requirements of this section.
(2)(a) The kinship care legal aid coordinator shall consult with the following entities:
(i) The kinship care oversight committee as provided for in RCW 74.13.621;
(ii) The Washington state supreme court access to justice board's pro bono council;
(iii) The Washington state bar association moderate means program;
(iv) The department of social and health services, aging and long-term support administration; and
(v) The office of public defense.
(b) The kinship care legal aid coordinator shall work with entities stated in (a) of this subsection to identify and facilitate the development of local and regional kinship care legal aid initiatives, and further efforts to implement relevant recommendations from the kinship care oversight committee as provided for in RCW 74.13.621.
(3) The kinship care legal aid coordinator shall maintain the following duties:
(a) Develop, expand, and deliver training materials designed to help pro bono and low bono attorneys provide legal advice and assistance to kinship caregivers on matters that relate to their ability to meet physical, mental, social, educational, and other needs of children and youth in their care;
(b) Produce a biennial report outlining activities undertaken by the coordinator; legal aid resources developed at the statewide, regional, and local levels; and other information regarding development and expansion of legal aid services to kinship caregivers in Washington state. Reports are due to the department of children, youth, and families, department of social and health services, and relevant standing committees of the legislature by December 1st of each even-numbered year.
[ 2019 c 465 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 465: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect June 30, 2019." [ 2019 c 465 s 4.]

catchline: Kinship care legal aid coordinator.


title: RCW 2.53.900

text:
This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2005.
[ 2005 c 105 s 9.]

catchline: Effective date—2005 c 105.


title: RCW 2.56.010

text:
There shall be a state office to be known as the administrative office of the courts. The executive officer of the administrative office of the courts is the administrator for the courts, who shall be appointed by and hold office at the pleasure of the supreme court of this state. The administrator's salary shall be fixed by the supreme court.
[ 2005 c 282 s 5; 1984 c 20 s 1; 1979 ex.s. c 255 s 7; 1974 ex.s. c 156 s 1; 1969 c 93 s 1; 1957 c 259 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—1979 ex.s. c 255: See note following RCW 43.03.010.

catchline: Office created—Appointment of administrator.


title: RCW 2.56.020

text:
(1) The administrator for the courts, with the approval of the chief justice of the supreme court of this state, shall appoint and fix the compensation of such assistants as are necessary to enable performance of the power and duties vested in the administrative office of the courts.
(2) Neither the administrator nor any assistant shall engage in the private practice of law except as otherwise provided for in this section.
(3) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, nothing in this section prohibits the administrator or any assistant from:
(a) Performing legal services for himself or herself or his or her immediate family; or
(b) Performing legal services of a charitable nature.
(4) The legal services identified in subsection (3) of this section may not be performed if they would interfere with the duties of the administrator or any assistant and no services that are performed shall be deemed within the scope of employment.
[ 2005 c 282 s 6; 1957 c 259 s 2.]

catchline: Appointment, compensation of assistants—Administrator, assistants not to practice law.


title: RCW 2.56.030

text:
The administrator for the courts shall, under the supervision and direction of the chief justice:
(1) Examine the administrative methods and systems employed in the offices of the judges, clerks, stenographers, and employees of the courts and make recommendations, through the chief justice, for the improvement of the same;
(2) Examine the state of the dockets of the courts and determine the need for assistance by any court;
(3) Make recommendations to the chief justice relating to the assignment of judges where courts are in need of assistance and carry out the direction of the chief justice as to the assignments of judges to counties and districts where the courts are in need of assistance;
(4) Collect and compile statistical and other data and make reports of the business transacted by the courts and transmit the same to the chief justice to the end that proper action may be taken in respect thereto;
(5) Prepare and submit budget estimates of state appropriations necessary for the maintenance and operation of the judicial system and make recommendations in respect thereto;
(6) Collect statistical and other data and make reports relating to the expenditure of public moneys, state and local, for the maintenance and operation of the judicial system and the offices connected therewith;
(7) Obtain reports from clerks of courts in accordance with law or rules adopted by the supreme court of this state on cases and other judicial business in which action has been delayed beyond periods of time specified by law or rules of court and make report thereof to supreme court of this state;
(8) Act as secretary of the judicial conference referred to in RCW 2.56.060;
(9) Submit annually, as of February 1st, to the chief justice, a report of the activities of the administrator's office for the preceding calendar year including activities related to courthouse security;
(10) Administer programs and standards for the training and education of judicial personnel;
(11) Examine the need for new superior court and district court judge positions under an objective workload analysis. The results of the objective workload analysis shall be reviewed by the board for judicial administration which shall make recommendations to the legislature. It is the intent of the legislature that an objective workload analysis become the basis for creating additional district and superior court positions, and recommendations should address that objective;
(12) Provide staff to the judicial retirement account plan under chapter 2.14 RCW;
(13) Attend to such other matters as may be assigned by the supreme court of this state;
(14) Within available funds, develop a curriculum for a general understanding of child development, placement, and treatment resources, as well as specific legal skills and knowledge of relevant statutes including chapters 13.32A, 13.34, and 13.40 RCW, cases, court rules, interviewing skills, and special needs of the abused or neglected child. This curriculum shall be completed and made available to all juvenile court judges, court personnel, and service providers and be updated yearly to reflect changes in statutes, court rules, or case law;
(15) Develop, in consultation with the entities set forth in RCW 2.56.150(3), a comprehensive statewide curriculum for persons who act as guardians ad litem under Title 13 or 26 RCW. The curriculum shall be made available July 1, 2008, and include specialty sections on child development, child sexual abuse, child physical abuse, child neglect, domestic violence, clinical and forensic investigative and interviewing techniques, family reconciliation and mediation services, and relevant statutory and legal requirements. The curriculum shall be made available to all superior court judges, court personnel, and all persons who act as guardians ad litem;
(16) Develop a curriculum for a general understanding of hate crime offenses, as well as specific legal skills and knowledge of RCW 9A.36.080, relevant cases, court rules, and the special needs of hate crime offense victims. This curriculum shall be made available to all superior court and court of appeals judges and to all justices of the supreme court;
(17) Develop, in consultation with the criminal justice training commission and the commissions established under chapters 43.113, 43.115, and 43.117 RCW, a curriculum for a general understanding of ethnic and cultural diversity and its implications for working with youth of color and their families. The curriculum shall be available to all superior court judges and court commissioners assigned to juvenile court, and other court personnel. Ethnic and cultural diversity training shall be provided annually so as to incorporate cultural sensitivity and awareness into the daily operation of juvenile courts statewide;
(18) Authorize the use of closed circuit television and other electronic equipment in judicial proceedings. The administrator shall promulgate necessary standards and procedures and shall provide technical assistance to courts as required;
(19) Develop a Washington family law handbook in accordance with RCW 2.56.180;
(20) Administer state funds for improving the operation of the courts and provide support for court coordinating councils, under the direction of the board for judicial administration;
(21) Administer the family and juvenile court improvement grant program;
(22)(a) Administer and distribute amounts appropriated under RCW 43.08.250(2) for district court judges' and qualifying elected municipal court judges' salary contributions. The administrator for the courts shall develop a distribution formula for these amounts that does not differentiate between district and elected municipal court judges.
(b) A city qualifies for state contribution of elected municipal court judges' salaries under (a) of this subsection if:
(i) The judge is serving in an elected position;
(ii) The city has established by ordinance that a full-time judge is compensated at a rate equivalent to at least ninety-five percent, but not more than one hundred percent, of a district court judge salary or for a part-time judge on a pro rata basis the same equivalent; and
(iii) The city has certified to the office of the administrator for the courts that the conditions in (b)(i) and (ii) of this subsection have been met;
(23) Subject to the availability of funds specifically appropriated therefor, assist courts in the development and implementation of language access plans required under RCW 2.43.090.
[ 2025 c 55 s 11; 2019 c 271 s 5; 2009 c 479 s 2. Prior: 2008 c 291 s 4; 2008 c 279 s 3; 2007 c 496 s 302; prior: 2005 c 457 s 7; 2005 c 282 s 7; 2002 c 49 s 2; 1997 c 41 s 2; 1996 c 249 s 2; 1994 c 240 s 1; 1993 c 415 s 3; 1992 c 205 s 115; 1989 c 95 s 2; prior: 1988 c 234 s 2; 1988 c 109 s 23; 1987 c 363 s 6; 1981 c 132 s 1; 1957 c 259 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2009 c 479: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2009." [ 2009 c 479 s 76.]
Part headings not law—2007 c 496: See note following RCW 26.09.002.
Intent—2005 c 457: See note following RCW 43.08.250.
Declaration—2002 c 49: See note following RCW 2.56.180.
Intent—1996 c 249: "It is the intent of this act to make improvements to the guardian and guardian ad litem systems currently in place for the protection of minors and incapacitated persons." [ 1996 c 249 s 1.]
Intent—1993 c 415: "Pursuant to the work of the juvenile justice task force created by the 1991 legislature to undertake a study of Washington state's juvenile justice system, the department of social and health services and the commission on African American affairs commissioned an independent study of racial disproportionality in the state's juvenile justice system. The study team, which documented evidence of disparity in the treatment of juvenile offenders of color throughout the system, provided recommendations to the legislature on December 15, 1992. The study recommends cultural diversity training for juvenile court and law enforcement personnel, expanded data collection on juvenile offenders throughout the system, development of uniform prosecutorial standards for juvenile offenders, changes to the consolidated juvenile services program and funding formula, dissemination of information to families and communities regarding juvenile court procedures, and examination of juvenile disposition standards for racial and/or ethnic bias.
It is the intent of the legislature to implement the recommendations of this study in an effort to discourage differential treatment of youth of color and their families who come in contact with the juvenile courts in this state, and to promote racial and ethnic sensitivity and awareness throughout the juvenile court system." [ 1993 c 415 s 1.]
Part headings not law—Severability—1992 c 205: See notes following RCW 13.40.010.
Construction—Severability—1989 c 95: See notes following RCW 9A.36.080.
Legislative findings—1988 c 234: "The legislature recognizes the need for appropriate training of juvenile court judges, attorneys, court personnel, and service providers in the dependency system and at-risk youth systems." [ 1988 c 234 s 1.]
Effective date—1988 c 109: See note following RCW 2.10.030.
Ethnic and cultural diversity—Development of curriculum for understanding—Training: RCW 43.101.280.

catchline: Powers and duties.


title: RCW 2.56.032

text:
(1)(a) All juvenile courts shall transmit youth-level secure detention data and juvenile diversion agreement data to the administrative office of the courts.
(b) Data may either be entered into the statewide management information system for juvenile courts or securely transmitted to the administrative office of the courts at least monthly. Juvenile courts shall provide, at a minimum, the name and date of birth for the youth and the referral number or court case number associated with the event. For secure detention events, courts shall provide the reasons for admission to the juvenile detention facility, the date of admission, the date of exit, and the time the youth spent in secure confinement. For diversion agreement events, the courts shall provide the date of the diversion agreement and the outcome of the agreement.
(c) Courts are also encouraged to report individual-level data reflecting:
(i) Whether a detention alternative, such as electronic monitoring, was used, and the time spent in detention alternatives; and
(ii) Informal diversion events where no formal diversion agreement is entered into.
(d) The administrative office of the courts and the juvenile court administrators must work to develop uniform data standards for detention and diversion.
(2) The administrative office of the courts shall deliver an annual statewide report to the legislature that details the number of Washington youth who are placed into detention facilities during the preceding calendar year. The first report shall be delivered by March 1, 2017, and shall detail the most serious reason for detention and youth gender, race, and ethnicity. The report must have a specific emphasis on youth who are detained for reasons relating to a truancy, at-risk youth, or a child in need of services petition. The report must:
(a) Consider the written findings described in RCW 7.21.030(2)(e)(ii)(B), and provide an analysis of the rationale and evidence used and the less restrictive options considered;
(b) Monitor the utilization of alternatives to detention;
(c) Track trends in the use of at-risk youth petitions;
(d) Track trends in the use of secure residential programs with intensive wraparound services; and
(e) Track the race and gender of youth with at-risk petitions.
(3) The administrative office of the courts shall deliver an annual statewide report to the legislature that details, disaggregated by age, race, ethnicity, gender, tribal affiliation if known, and county (including the rate per 1,000 youth), the number of Washington youth who enter into a formal diversion agreement each calendar year. The report must indicate:
(a) How many diversions are entered into before filing an information and how many diversions are entered into after an information is filed;
(b) The number of successfully completed diversions;
(c) The rate of successfully completed diversions;
(d) The types of alleged offenses referred to diversion;
(e) The number and rate of refused diversions and whether the diversion was refused by the youth or the court;
(f) The number and type of disposition alternatives granted each calendar year and how many are revoked;
(g) The number of law enforcement referrals to a prosecuting attorney alleging the commission of a juvenile offense each calendar year organized by referring agency; and
(h) The number of school referrals to a prosecuting attorney alleging the commission of a juvenile offense each calendar year organized by school district.
[ 2025 c 140 s 6; 2019 c 312 s 17; 2016 c 205 s 19.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2025 c 140: See note following RCW 13.40.080.
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 312: See notes following RCW 7.21.080.

catchline: Youth-level secure detention data—Uniform data standards—Annual reports.


title: RCW 2.56.038

text:
For purposes of this title and Title 3 RCW, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, "single judge court" means a court or judicial district that has only one judge.
[ 2022 c 74 s 1.]

catchline: Definition—Single judge court.


title: RCW 2.56.040

text:
(1) The chief justice shall consider all recommendations of the administrator for the assignment of judges, and, in the discretion of the chief justice, direct any judge whose calendar, in the judgment of the chief justice, will permit, to hold court where need therefor exists, to the end that the courts in this state shall function with maximum efficiency, and that the work of other courts shall be equitably distributed. It shall be the duty of every judge to obey such direction of the chief justice unless excused by the chief justice for sufficient cause.
(2)(a) If due to illness, incapacity, resignation, death, or other unavailability the presiding judge in a single judge court is unable to fulfill the duties of the office, and either (i) no person has been designated by the presiding judge to serve as presiding judge pro tempore or (ii) the previously designated presiding judge pro tempore resigns, is removed from office, or is no longer able to serve, the chief justice may appoint another judicial officer or other person as the presiding judge pro tempore who meets the qualifications of a judge pro tempore, subject to (c) of this subsection, during the remaining period of unavailability or until a vacancy is filled as provided by law.
(b) The chief justice may appoint someone other than the previously designated or appointed individual to serve as presiding judge pro tempore whenever the chief justice determines that the administration of justice would be better served by appointment of someone else to fulfill the presiding judge duties, subject to (c) of this subsection, during the remaining period of unavailability or until the vacancy is filled as provided by law.
(c) The chief justice, or designee, shall consult with the local legislative and executive authorities before removing or appointing a presiding judge pro tempore under (a) or (b) of this subsection.
(d) Nothing in this section is intended to modify the role of the commission on judicial conduct as provided in Article IV, section 31 of the Washington state Constitution and chapter 2.64 RCW.
[ 2022 c 74 s 2; 2005 c 182 s 1; 1957 c 259 s 4.]
Notes:
Visiting judge: RCW 2.08.140 through 2.08.170, 2.08.200.

catchline: Distribution of work of courts by chief justice—Unavailability of presiding judge in single judge court.


title: RCW 2.56.050

text:
The judges and clerks of the courts and all other officers, state and local, shall comply with all requests made by the administrator, after approval by the chief justice, for information and statistical data bearing on the state of the dockets of such courts and such other information as may reflect the business transacted by them and the expenditure of public moneys for the maintenance and operation of the judicial system.
[ 1957 c 259 s 5.]

catchline: Judges, clerks, other officers, to comply with requests of administrator.


title: RCW 2.56.060

text:
The supreme court of this state may provide by rule or special order for the holding in this state of an annual conference of the judges of the courts of record of this state, judges of the courts of limited jurisdiction, and invited members of the bar, for the consideration of matters relating to judicial business, the improvement of the judicial system and the administration of justice. Each judge attending such annual judicial conference shall be entitled to be reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 as now existing or hereafter amended, to be paid from state appropriations made for the purposes of this chapter.
[ 1981 c 331 s 15; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 6; 1957 c 259 s 6.]
Notes:
Court Congestion Reduction Act of 1981—Purpose—Severability—1981 c 331: See notes following RCW 2.32.070.
Effective date—Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34: See notes following RCW 2.08.115.

catchline: Annual conference of judges—Judge's expenses.


title: RCW 2.56.070

text:
For attendance while holding court in another county or district pursuant to the direction of the chief justice, a judge shall be entitled to receive from the county to which he or she is sent reimbursement for subsistence, lodging, and travel expenses in accordance with the rates applicable to state officers under RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 as now or hereafter amended.
[ 2011 c 336 s 71; 1981 c 186 s 4; 1957 c 259 s 7.]

catchline: Holding court in another county—Reimbursement for expenses.


title: RCW 2.56.080

text:
This chapter shall apply to the following courts: The supreme court, the court of appeals, the superior courts; and, when and to the extent so ordered by the supreme court, to the courts of limited jurisdiction of this state, including district courts.
[ 1987 c 202 s 108; 1971 c 81 s 14; 1957 c 259 s 8.]
Notes:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.

catchline: Chapter applies to supreme and superior courts, court of appeals, and courts of limited jurisdiction.


title: RCW 2.56.090

text:
Any moneys appropriated for the purposes of this chapter shall be disbursed, upon order of the chief justice, on warrants drawn by the state auditor on the general fund.
[ 1957 c 259 s 9.]

catchline: Disbursement of appropriated funds.


title: RCW 2.56.110

text:
The administrator for the courts may assign one or more district judges from other judicial districts to serve as visiting district judges in a judicial district which the administrator determines is experiencing an increase in case filings as the result of enhanced enforcement of laws related to driving, or being in physical control of, a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug. The prosecuting, city, or town attorney of the county, city, or town in which a judicial district lies, or the presiding judge of the judicial district, may request the administrator for the courts to designate the district as an enhanced enforcement district and to make assignments under this section. An assignment shall be for a specified period of time not to exceed thirty days. A visiting district judge has the same powers as a district judge of the district to which he or she is assigned. A visiting district judge shall be reimbursed for expenses under RCW 2.56.070.
[ 1991 c 290 s 1; 1987 c 202 s 109; 1983 c 165 s 31.]
Notes:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Legislative finding, intent—Effective dates—Severability—1983 c 165: See notes following RCW 46.20.308.
Venue, criminal actions: RCW 3.66.070.

catchline: Driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug—Enhanced enforcement of related laws—Assignment of visiting district judges—Powers, expenses.


title: RCW 2.56.115

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the administrative office of the courts shall develop, deliver, and regularly update training regarding child safety and the risk and danger presented to children and youth by high-potency synthetic opioids and other substances impacting families.
(2) The training established in this section must be:
(a) Informed by the information developed under section 109, chapter 328, Laws of 2024; and
(b) Developed for and made available to judicial officers and system partners in the dependency court system.
[ 2024 c 328 s 110.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2024 c 328: See note following RCW 13.34.050.

catchline: Child safety training—High-potency synthetic opioids and other substances.


title: RCW 2.56.120

text:
(1) The administrative office of the courts, in cooperation with appropriate legislative committees and legislative staff, shall establish a procedure for the provision of judicial impact notes on the effect legislative bills will have on the workload and administration of the courts of this state. The administrative office of the courts and the office of financial management shall coordinate the development of judicial impact notes with the preparation of fiscal notes under chapters 43.88A and 43.132 RCW.
(2) The administrative office of the courts shall provide a judicial impact note on any legislative proposal at the request of any legislator. The note shall be provided to the requesting legislator and copies filed with the appropriate legislative committees in accordance with subsection (3) of this section when the proposed legislation is introduced in either house.
(3) When a judicial impact note is prepared and approved by the administrative office of the courts, copies of the note shall be filed with:
(a) The chairperson of the committee to which the bill was referred upon introduction in the house of origin;
(b) The senate committee on ways and means;
(c) The house of representatives committee on ways and means;
(d) The senate judiciary committee;
(e) The house of representatives judiciary committee; and
(f) The office of financial management.
(4) This section shall not prevent either house of the legislature from acting on any bill before it as otherwise provided by the state Constitution, by law, and by the rules and joint rules of the senate and house of representatives, nor shall the lack of any judicial impact note as provided in this section or any error in the accuracy thereof affect the validity of any measure otherwise duly passed by the legislature.
[ 2005 c 282 s 8; 1986 c 158 s 1; 1984 c 258 s 604.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Judicial impact notes—Establishment of procedure—Legislator may request—Copies to be filed.


title: RCW 2.56.130

text:
The administrator for the courts shall, in cooperation with juvenile courts, develop informational materials describing juvenile laws and juvenile court processes and procedures related to such laws, and make such information available to the public. Similar information shall also be made available for the non-English-speaking youth and their families.
[ 1993 c 415 s 5.]
Notes:
Intent—1993 c 415: See note following RCW 2.56.030.

catchline: Juvenile laws and court processes and procedures—Informational materials.


title: RCW 2.56.140

text:
The administrator for the courts shall prepare a report for each school year to be submitted to the legislature no later than December 15th of each year that summarizes the disposition of petitions filed with the juvenile court under RCW 28A.225.030, including the number of contempt orders issued to enforce a court's order under RCW 28A.225.030.
[ 1996 c 134 s 8.]

catchline: Disposition of school attendance violation petitions—Report.


title: RCW 2.56.150

text:
(1) The administrator for the courts shall review the advisability and feasibility of the statewide mandatory use of court-appointed special advocates as described in RCW 26.12.175 to act as guardians ad litem in appropriate cases under Titles 13 and 26 RCW. The review must explore the feasibility of obtaining various sources of private and public funding to implement statewide mandatory use of court-appointed special advocates, such as grants and donations, instead of or in combination with raising court fees or assessments.
(2) The administrator shall also conduct a study on the feasibility and desirability of requiring all persons who act as guardians ad litem or court visitors under Titles 11, 13, and 26 RCW to be certified as qualified guardians ad litem or court visitors prior to their eligibility for appointment.
(3) In conducting the review and study the administrator shall consult with: (a) The presidents or directors of all public benefit nonprofit corporations that are eligible to receive state funds under RCW 43.330.135; (b) the attorney general, or a designee; (c) the secretary of the department of social and health services, or a designee; (d) the superior court judges' association; (e) the Washington state bar association; (f) public defenders who represent children under Title 13 or 26 RCW; (g) private attorneys who represent parents under Title 13 or 26 RCW; (h) professionals who evaluate families for the purposes of determining the custody or placement decisions of children; (i) the office of financial management; (j) persons who act as volunteer or compensated guardians ad litem; and (k) parents who have dealt with guardians ad litem or court visitors in court cases. For the purposes of studying the feasibility of a certification requirement for guardians ad litem acting under Title 11 RCW the administrator shall consult with the advisory group formed under RCW 11.130.155.
(4) The administrator shall also conduct a review of problems and concerns about the role of guardians ad litem in actions under Titles 11, 13, and 26 RCW and recommend alternatives to strengthen judicial oversight of guardians ad litem or court visitors and ensure fairness and impartiality of the process. The administrator must accept and obtain comments from parties designated in subsection (3) of this section.
[ 2020 c 312 s 701; 2005 c 282 s 9; 1996 c 249 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2020 c 312: See note following RCW 11.130.915.
Presentation of review and study—Time limit—1996 c 249: "The review and study required under section 3 of this act shall be presented to the governor and to the legislature no later than December 1, 1996." [ 1996 c 249 s 4.]
Intent—1996 c 249: See note following RCW 2.56.030.

catchline: Review of mandatory use of court-appointed special advocates as guardians ad litem, certification of guardians ad litem and court visitors.


title: RCW 2.56.160

text:
The administrator for the courts shall establish a pilot program for the efficient statewide processing of warrants issued by courts of limited jurisdiction. The pilot program shall contain procedures and criteria for courts of limited jurisdiction to enter into agreements with other courts of limited jurisdiction throughout the state to process each other's warrants when the defendant is within the processing court's jurisdiction. The administrator for the courts shall establish a formula for allocating between the court processing the warrant and the court that issued the warrant any moneys collected and costs associated with the processing of warrants.
[ 2000 c 111 s 1.]
Notes:
Report to legislature—2000 c 111: "The program established by the office of the administrator for the courts pursuant to RCW 2.56.160 shall by June 1, 2003, report to the legislature on the effectiveness and costs of the pilot program. Copies of the report shall be distributed to the house of representatives judiciary committee and the senate judiciary committee." [ 2000 c 111 s 8.]

catchline: Processing of warrants pilot program.


title: RCW 2.56.170

text:
A judge pro tempore may be authorized under RCW 2.06.150 or 2.08.180 whenever a judge of the court of appeals or the superior court serves on a judicial commission, board, or committee established by the legislature or the chief justice of the supreme court. The judge pro tempore shall be compensated as specified in RCW 2.06.160 or 2.08.180.
[ 2000 c 165 s 1.]

catchline: Judge pro tempore appointments.


title: RCW 2.56.180

text:
(1) The administrative office of the courts shall create a handbook explaining the sections of Washington law pertaining to the rights and responsibilities of marital partners to each other and to any children during a marriage and a dissolution of marriage. The handbook may also be provided in videotape or other electronic form.
(2) The handbook created under subsection (1) of this section shall be provided by the county auditor when an individual applies for a marriage license under RCW 26.04.140.
(3) The handbook created under subsection (1) of this section shall also be provided to the petitioner when he or she files a petition for dissolution, and to the respondent, unless the respondent did not file a response, notice of appearance, or any other paper in the case or did not appear in court. The administrative office of the courts shall on an annual basis reimburse the counties for each copy of the handbook that is distributed directly to family law parties under this section, provided that the county submits documentation of the number of handbooks distributed on an annual basis.
(4) The information contained in the handbook created under subsection (1) of this section shall be reviewed and updated annually. The handbook must contain the following information:
(a) Information on prenuptial agreements as contracts and as a means of structuring financial arrangements and other aspects of the marital relationship;
(b) Information on shared parental responsibility for children, including establishing a residential schedule for the child in the event of the dissolution of the marriage;
(c) Information on notice requirements and standards for parental relocation;
(d) Information on child support for minor children;
(e) Information on property rights, including equitable distribution of assets and premarital and postmarital property rights;
(f) Information on spousal maintenance;
(g) Information on domestic violence, child abuse, and neglect, including penalties;
(h) Information on the court process for dissolution;
(i) Information on the effects of dissolution on children;
(j) Information on community resources that are available to separating or divorcing persons and their children.
[ 2007 c 496 s 202; 2005 c 282 s 10; 2003 c 225 s 1; 2002 c 49 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2007 c 496 ss 201, 202, 204, and 501: See note following RCW 26.12.260.
Part headings not law—2007 c 496: See note following RCW 26.09.002.
Declaration—2002 c 49: "The legislature declares that:
(1) Strong marital relationships result in stronger families, children, and ultimately, stronger communities and place less of a fiscal burden on the state; and
(2) The state has a compelling interest in providing couples, applying for a marriage license, information with regard to marriage and, if contemplated, the effects of divorce." [ 2002 c 49 s 1.]

catchline: Family law handbook.


title: RCW 2.56.200

text:
The office of the administrator for the courts is encouraged to conduct performance audits of courts under the authority of the supreme court, in conformity with criteria and methods developed by the board for judicial administration that have been approved by the supreme court. In developing criteria and methods for conducting performance audits, the board for judicial administration is encouraged to consider quality improvement programs, audits, and scoring. The judicial branch is encouraged to submit the results of these efforts to the chief justice of the supreme court or his or her designee, and with any other applicable boards or committees established under the authority of the supreme court to oversee government accountability.
[ 2005 c 385 s 10.]

catchline: Performance audits.


title: RCW 2.56.210

text:
(1) Washington state courts are required by chapter 49.60 RCW, the law against discrimination, and by 42 U.S.C. Sec. 12101 et seq., the Americans with disabilities act, to provide equal access to persons with disabilities. To assist the courts to comply with these laws, the administrative office of the courts shall, subject to the availability of funds appropriated for this purpose, create the position of court access and accommodations coordinator.
(2) The coordinator shall:
(a) Review the needs of courts statewide for training and other assistance required to provide access and accommodation for persons with disabilities;
(b) Provide guidance and assistance upon request;
(c) Identify appropriate assistive devices and establish a system to improve courts' access to such devices.
(3) In carrying out the duties under this section, the coordinator shall consult with persons with disabilities, and shall facilitate communication between the administrative office of the courts and such persons and their representative groups.
[ 2008 c 148 s 1.]

catchline: Court access and accommodations coordinator—Duties.


title: RCW 2.56.220

text:
Subject to the availability of funds appropriated therefor, the family and juvenile court improvement grant program is created.
(1) The purpose of the program is to assist superior courts in improving their family and juvenile court systems, especially in dependency cases, with the goals of:
(a) Assuring a stable and well-trained judiciary in family and juvenile law providing consistency of judicial officers hearing all of the proceedings in a case involving one family, especially in dependency cases; and
(b) Ensuring judicial accountability in implementing specific principles and practices for family and juvenile court.
(2) The administrator for the courts shall develop and administer the program subject to requirements in RCW 2.56.230. As part of administering the program, the administrator for the courts shall define appropriate outcome measures, collect data, and gather information from courts receiving grants.
[ 2008 c 279 s 1.]

catchline: Family and juvenile court improvement grant program—Creation—Purpose.


title: RCW 2.56.230

text:
(1) A superior court may apply for grants from the family and juvenile court improvement grant program by submitting a local improvement plan with the administrator for the courts. To be eligible for grant funds, a superior court's local improvement plan must meet the criteria developed by the administrator for the courts and approved by the board for judicial administration. The criteria must be consistent with the principles adopted for unified family courts. At a minimum, the criteria must require that the court's local improvement plan meet the following requirements:
(a) Commit to a chief judge assignment to the family and juvenile court for a minimum of two years;
(b) Implementation of the principle of one judicial team hearing all of the proceedings in a case involving one family, especially in dependency cases;
(c) Require court commissioners and judges assigned to family and juvenile court to receive a minimum of thirty hours specialized training in topics related to family and juvenile matters within six months of assuming duties in family and juvenile court. Where possible, courts should utilize local, statewide, and national training forums. A judicial officer's recorded educational history may be applied toward the thirty-hour requirement. The topics for training must include:
(i) Parentage;
(ii) Adoption;
(iii) Domestic relations;
(iv) Dependency and termination of parental rights;
(v) Child development;
(vi) The impact of child abuse and neglect;
(vii) Domestic violence;
(viii) Substance use disorder, including the risk and danger presented to children and youth;
(ix) Mental health;
(x) Juvenile status offenses;
(xi) Juvenile offenders;
(xii) Self-representation issues;
(xiii) Cultural competency;
(xiv) Roles of family and juvenile court judges and commissioners;
(xv) How to apply the child safety framework to crucial aspects of dependency cases, including safety assessment, safety planning, and case planning; and
(xvi) The legal standards for removal of a child based on abuse or neglect; and
(d) As part of the application for grant funds, submit a spending proposal detailing how the superior court would use the grant funds.
(2) Courts receiving grant money must use the funds to improve and support family and juvenile court operations based on standards developed by the administrator for the courts and approved by the board for judicial administration. The standards may allow courts to use the funds to:
(a) Pay for family and juvenile court training of commissioners and judges or pay for pro tem commissioners and judges to assist the court while the commissioners and judges receive training;
(b) Pay for the training of other professionals involved in child welfare court proceedings including, but not limited to, attorneys and guardians ad litem;
(c) Increase judicial and nonjudicial staff, including administrative staff to improve case coordination and referrals in family and juvenile cases, guardian ad litem volunteers or court-appointed special advocates, security, and other staff;
(d) Improve the court facility to better meet the needs of children and families;
(e) Improve referral and treatment options for court participants, including enhancing court facilitator programs and family treatment court and increasing the availability of alternative dispute resolution;
(f) Enhance existing family and children support services funded by the courts and expand access to social service programs for families and children ordered by the court; and
(g) Improve or support family and juvenile court operations in any other way deemed appropriate by the administrator for the courts.
(3) The administrator for the courts shall allocate available grant moneys based upon the needs of the court as expressed in their local improvement plan.
(4) Money received by the superior court under this program must be used to supplement, not supplant, any other local, state, and federal funds for the court.
(5) Upon receipt of grant funds, the superior court shall submit to the administrator for the courts a spending plan detailing the use of funds. At the end of the fiscal year, the superior court shall submit to the administrator for the courts a financial report comparing the spending plan to actual expenditures. The administrator for the courts shall compile the financial reports and submit them to the appropriate committees of the legislature.
[ 2024 c 328 s 108; 2008 c 279 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2024 c 328: See note following RCW 13.34.050.

catchline: Family and juvenile court improvement grant program—Application process—Program standards.


title: RCW 2.56.240

text:
(1) The administrative office of the courts shall develop guidelines by December 1, 2011, for all courts to establish a process to reconcile duplicate or conflicting no-contact or protection orders issued by courts in this state.
(2) The guidelines developed under subsection (1) of this section must include:
(a) A process to allow any party named in a no-contact or protection order to petition for the purpose of reconciling duplicate or conflicting orders; and
(b) A procedure to address no-contact and protection order data sharing between court jurisdictions in this state.
(3) By January 1, 2011, the administrative office of the courts shall provide a report back to the legislature concerning the progress made to develop the guidelines required by this section.
[ 2010 c 274 s 310.]
Notes:
Intent—2010 c 274: See note following RCW 10.31.100.

catchline: Reconciling duplicate or conflicting no-contact or protection orders.


title: RCW 2.56.245

text:
The administrative office of the courts shall ensure that the information required in RCW 7.105.352 is provided by each court, including through use of consistent court codes, reporting mechanisms, and database entry.
[ 2025 c 222 s 2.]

catchline: Protection order hope cards program—Provision of information.


title: RCW 2.56.260

text:
(1) The administrative office of the courts shall:
(a) Develop a list of vendors or enter into a contract with a vendor that provides electronic monitoring with victim notification technology. The office shall provide outreach to counties as to how courts may access the vendor or vendors; and
(b) Create an informational handout on the opportunity to request electronic monitoring with victim notification technology to be provided to individuals seeking a protection order and for which electronic monitoring with victim notification technology is available. The information must include a description of the technology used, requirements for accessing the technology, any limitations on how the technology may or may not assist the person in maintaining the safety of the victim and the victim's family, and how the person may request electronic monitoring with victim notification technology from the court.
(2) An appointed or elected public official, public employee, or public agency as defined in RCW 4.24.470, or units of local government and its employees, as provided in RCW 36.28A.010, are immune from civil liability for damages resulting from the utilization of electronic monitoring with victim notification technology, unless it is shown that the official, employee, or agency acted with gross negligence or in bad faith.
(3) For purposes of this section, "electronic monitoring" means the same as in RCW 9.94A.030.
[ 2020 c 296 s 6.]
Notes:
Short title—2020 c 296: See note following RCW 9.94A.030.

catchline: Electronic monitoring with victim notification technology.


title: RCW 2.56.265

text:
(1) Subject to funds appropriated for this specific purpose, by June 1, 2024, the Washington courts' board for judicial administration must develop model standards:
(a) Establishing best practices for the operation of electronic monitoring with victim notification technology by monitoring agencies, with the goal of improving victim safety;
(b) Establishing protocols for implementing court orders that include electronic monitoring with victim notification, including protocols for the installation and removal of monitoring devices to ensure uninterrupted monitoring services following release from detainment or incarceration; and
(c) Establishing any additional requirements necessary to promote compliance with RCW 2.56.260 and 9.94A.736, which may include, but not be limited to, training requirements for court officials, peace officers, 911 dispatchers, local corrections officers and staff, and other appropriate practitioners.
(2) In developing the standards required under this section, the Washington courts' board for judicial administration must solicit input from courts of general and limited jurisdiction, local governments, monitoring agencies, and statewide associations representing law enforcement leaders, prosecutors, the department of corrections, domestic violence victims, and domestic violence agencies.
(3) Subject to funds appropriated for this specific purpose, the Washington courts' board for judicial administration must develop a model policy on electronic monitoring with victim notification technology based on best practices where the technology is being currently used in Washington. Each law enforcement agency in the state must adopt its own policy based on the model policy.
(4) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Electronic monitoring" has the meaning provided in RCW 9.94A.030; and
(b) "Monitoring agency" has the meaning provided in RCW 9.94A.736.
[ 2023 c 462 s 101.]

catchline: Electronic monitoring model standards—Law enforcement policies.


title: RCW 2.56.900

text:
For the purposes of this chapter, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[ 2009 c 521 s 9.]

catchline: Construction—Chapter applicable to state registered domestic partnerships—2009 c 521.


title: RCW 2.60.010

text:
As used in this chapter:
(1) The term "certificate procedure" shall mean the procedure authorized herein by which a federal court in disposing of a cause pending before it submits a question of local law to the supreme court for answer;
(2) The term "federal court" means any court of the United States of America including the supreme court of the United States, courts of appeal, district courts and any other court created by act of congress;
(3) The term "supreme court" shall mean supreme court of Washington;
(4) The term "record" shall mean: (a) A stipulation of facts approved by the federal court showing the nature of the case and the circumstances out of which the question of law arises or such part of the pleadings, proceedings and testimony in the cause pending before the federal court as in its opinion is necessary to enable the supreme court to answer the question submitted; (b) a statement of the question of local law certified for answer. The record shall contain a certificate under the official seal of the court, signed by the chief judge of a multi-judge federal court or judge of the district court utilizing certificate procedure stating that the record contains all matters in the pending cause deemed material for consideration of the local law question certified for answer;
(5) The term "supplemental record" shall mean the original or copies of any other portion of the proceedings, pleadings and testimony before the federal court deemed desirable by the supreme court in the determination of the local law question certified for answer. The supplemental record shall contain a certificate under the official seal of the court signed by the chief judge of such multi-judge federal court or judge of the district court, certifying that the supplemental record contains all additional matters requested;
(6) The term "opinion" shall mean the written opinion of the supreme court of Washington and shall include the certificate of the clerk of such court under seal of court stating that the opinion is in answer to the local law question submitted.
[ 1965 c 99 s 1.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 2.60.020

text:
When in the opinion of any federal court before whom a proceeding is pending, it is necessary to ascertain the local law of this state in order to dispose of such proceeding and the local law has not been clearly determined, such federal court may certify to the supreme court for answer the question of local law involved and the supreme court shall render its opinion in answer thereto.
[ 1965 c 99 s 2.]

catchline: Federal court certification of local law question.


title: RCW 2.60.030

text:
Certificate procedure shall be governed by the following provisions:
(1) Certificate procedure may be invoked by a federal court upon its own motion or upon the motion of any interested party in the litigation involved if the federal court grants such motion.
(2) Certificate procedure shall include and be based upon the record and may include a supplemental record.
(3) Certificate procedure costs shall be equally divided between plaintiff and defendant, subject to reallocation as between or among the parties by the federal court involved.
(4) The appellant or moving party in the federal court shall file and serve upon its adversary its brief on the question certified within thirty days after the filing of the record in the supreme court. The appellee or responding party in the federal court shall file and serve upon its adversary its brief within twenty days after receipt of appellant's or moving party's brief and a reply brief shall be filed within ten days. Time for filing record, supplemental record or briefs may be extended for cause.
(5) Oral argument as in other causes on the merits may be had upon request of the supreme court or upon application of any interested party in the certificate procedure.
(6) The supreme court shall forward to the federal court utilizing certificate procedure its opinion answering the local law question submitted.
(7) The supreme court may adopt rules of practice and procedure to implement or otherwise facilitate utilization of certificate procedure.
[ 1965 c 99 s 3.]

catchline: Practice and procedure.


title: RCW 2.60.900

text:
This act may be cited as the "federal court local law certificate procedure act."
[ 1965 c 99 s 4.]

catchline: Short title.