Washington § 38.40.020 - Not liable for exercise of judgment.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 38.40.020 — Not liable for exercise of judgment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 38.40.020. Not liable for exercise of judgment.

The commanding officer of any of the military forces of the state of Washington engaged under the order of proper authority in the suppression of insurrection, the dispersion of a mob, the protection of life or property, or the enforcement of the laws, shall exercise discretion as to the propriety of the means to be used in controlling or dispersing of any mob or other unlawful assembly and, if he or she exercises his or her honest judgment thereon, he or she shall not be liable in either a civil or criminal action for any act done in line of duty.
[ 1989 c 19 s 46; 1943 c 130 s 14; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 8603-14. Cf. 1909 c 134 s 25, part; 1895 c 108 s 173, part.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 38.40.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 38.40.020 cover?

Section 38.40.020 ("Not liable for exercise of judgment.") 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 § 38.40.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 38.40.020" (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 § 38.40.020 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

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.