Washington § 4.24.345 - Unlawfully summoning a law enforcement officer — Civil action.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.345 — Unlawfully summoning a law enforcement officer — Civil action., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4.24.345. Unlawfully summoning a law enforcement officer — Civil action.

(1) A person may bring a civil action for damages against any person who knowingly causes a law enforcement officer to arrive at a location to contact another person with the intent to:
(a) Infringe on the other person's rights under the Washington state or United States Constitutions;
(b) Unlawfully discriminate against the other person;
(c) Cause the other person to feel harassed, humiliated, or embarrassed;
(d) Cause the other person to be expelled from a place in which the other person is lawfully located; or
(e) Damage the other person's:
(i) Reputation or standing in the community; or
(ii) Financial, economic, consumer, or business prospects or interests.
(2) A person shall not be held liable under subsection (1) of this section if the person acted in good faith in causing a law enforcement officer to arrive.
(3) Upon prevailing in an action under this section, the plaintiff may recover:
(a) The greater of:
(i) Economic and noneconomic damages; or
(ii) $250 against each defendant found liable under this section; and
(b) Punitive damages.
(4) The court may award reasonable attorneys' fees and costs to the prevailing plaintiff in an action under this section.
(5) A civil action under this section:
(a) May be maintained in a court of limited jurisdiction if the total damages claimed do not exceed the statutory limit for damages that the court of limited jurisdiction may award; and
(b) Does not affect a right or remedy available under any other law of this state.
[ 2021 c 330 s 1.]

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 4.24.345

What does Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.345 cover?

Section 4.24.345 ("Unlawfully summoning a law enforcement officer — Civil action.") 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 § 4.24.345?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.345" (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 § 4.24.345 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.