The Laws In Your State: Washington

Washington

From the definition of rape to a person's ability to consent—the laws about sexual violence vary from state to state. Learn more about laws in Washington.
Rape and Sexual Assault Crime Definitions

How does your state define sexual assault crimes?

Consent

There are a number of factors that determine if a person legally consents, from their age to whether they're incapacitated. Learn about consent in your state.

Mandatory Reporting

Do you suspect that a child or elderly person is being sexually abused? Find out when you’re required to contact the authorities, and how to do so.

Criminal Statutes of Limitations

Even if the crime took place years ago, there may still be time to prosecute. Find out details of your state’s statute of limitations.

Termination of Rapists' Parental Rights

Find out if your state blocks rapists from asserting parental rights, such as custody and visitation, over children conceived as a result of their crime.

Confidentiality Laws

Are you thinking of getting help but worried about confidentiality? Find out how your state protects conversations between victims and sexual assault service providers.

HIV/AIDS Testing of Sex Offenders

Find out if your state allows — or requires — HIV/AIDS testing of suspected or convicted sex offenders.

Lawfully Owed DNA

Does your state require people arrested or convicted of sex crimes to provide a DNA sample?

Legal Disclaimer

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