Murder Sentencing Guidelines – Minimum to Maximum for Every State (2026)

Last Updated: January 2026 | Verified against current state statutes Quick Answer: How Long Is a Murder Sentence? Murder sentences in the United States vary dramatically by state and the degree of murder charged. First-degree murder typically carries 25 years to life or the death penalty in 27 states. Second-degree murder ranges from 4 years … Read more

Washington Hit and Run Laws (2026 Guide)

Last verified: January 2026. This page reflects current RCW 46.52.010 through 46.52.020 and applicable penalty classifications. Table of Contents Overview of Washington Hit and Run Laws Driver Duties After an Accident When Hit and Run Is a Misdemeanor When Hit and Run Is a Felony Felony Diversion Program Penalties Summary Washington Crash Statistics Frequently Asked … Read more

Washington Sexting Laws (2026 Guide)

Washington State maintains a comprehensive legal framework for addressing sexting that distinguishes between teen sexting and adult exploitation of minors. Under RCW Chapter 9.68A, the state has created a graduated penalty system that allows courts to impose reduced charges for consensual peer-to-peer sexting among teenagers while maintaining severe penalties for adults who exploit children. Washington … Read more

Washington Child Support Laws

Child Support Las in the state of Washington

Washington child support laws require the parent with less than 50% parenting time to pay support. The state uses the Income Shares Model, and courts reference an Economic Table to determine monthly obligations based on combined parental income. Last verified: February 2026 Quick Summary: Washington Child Support Model Used: Income Shares Model Governing Law: RCW … Read more

Washington Statute of Limitations

Statute of Limitations as they apply to the state of Washington

Statute of Limitations WA- Summary Washington’s statute of limitations establishes a deadline before which civil cases – such as lawsuits – must be filed in the state. In relation to criminal charges, it also prevents prosecutors from charging an individual with a crime after a specified period of time has passed. The statutes of limitations … Read more

Washington State Whistleblower Laws

Whistleblower laws as they apply to the state of Washington

A Summary of Washington Whistleblower Laws Washington is an employment-at-will state. This means employees can be discharged from work for any reason or no reason. However, there are a few exceptions to this doctrine that are used to protect employees from wrongful retaliation. These exceptions include common law protections and statutory protections. Statutory protections are … Read more

Washington Lemon Law: Complete Guide for 2026

Lemon laws as they apply to the state of Washington

Last verified: February 2026 Key Points Primary Law: Motor Vehicle Warranties Act (RCW 19.118) Coverage: New self-propelled vehicles, motorcycles 750cc+, and motor home chassis (excluding trucks 19,000+ lbs GVW) Presumption: 4+ repair attempts for nonconformity OR 2+ for serious safety defect OR 30+ days out of service Eligibility Period: 2 years or 24,000 miles from … Read more

Washington Car Seat Laws

Child Car Seat Laws as they apply to the state of Washington

A Summary of Child Car Seat Laws in Washington State Washington law requires children under 2 years to ride on rear-facing child restraint systems. The law allows children of ages 2-4 years to ride on forward-facing seats equipped with a harness. Children who have exceeded the forward-facing limits or those who are 4 years or … Read more

Washington Recording Laws (2026 Guide)

Last Updated: January 2026 | Verified against current Revised Code of Washington Quick Answer Washington is a two-party consent state. Under RCW 9.73.030, it is unlawful to intercept or record any private communication or conversation without consent from all parties. Consent can be satisfied by announcing that recording is occurring. Violations are a gross misdemeanor … Read more