Washington § 38.38.856 - [Art. 139] Redress of injuries to property.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 38.38.856 — [Art. 139] Redress of injuries to property., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 38.38.856. [Art. 139] Redress of injuries to property.

(1) Whenever complaint is made to any commanding officer that wilful damage has been done to the property of any person or that the person's property has been wrongfully taken by members of the organized militia, the commanding officer may, subject to such regulations as the governor may prescribe, convene a board to investigate the complaint. The board shall consist of from one to three commissioned officers and, for the purpose of that investigation, it has power to summon witnesses and examine them upon oath or affirmation, to receive depositions or other documentary evidence, and to assess the damages sustained against the responsible parties. The assessment of damages made by the board is subject to the approval of the commanding officer, and in the amount approved by the commanding officer shall be charged against the pay of the offenders. The order of the commanding officer directing charges herein authorized is conclusive, except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, on any disbursing officer for the payment by the disbursing officer to the injured parties of the damages so assessed and approved.
(2) If the offenders cannot be ascertained, but the organization or detachment to which they belong is known, charges totaling the amount of damages assessed and approved may be paid to the injured parties from the military funds of the units of the organized militia to which the offenders belonged.
(3) Any person subject to this code who is accused of causing wilful damage to property has the right to be represented by counsel, to summon witnesses in the person's behalf, and to cross-examine those appearing against him or her. The person has the right of appeal to the next higher commander.
[ 1989 c 48 s 76; 1963 c 220 s 124.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 38.38.856

What does Revised Code of Washington § 38.38.856 cover?

Section 38.38.856 ("[Art. 139] Redress of injuries to property.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 38.38.856?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 38.38.856" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 38.38.856 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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