Washington § 59.18.370 - Forcible entry or detainer or unlawful detainer actions — Writ of restitution — Application — Order — Hearing.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.370 — Forcible entry or detainer or unlawful detainer actions — Writ of restitution — Application — Order — Hearing., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 59.18.370. Forcible entry or detainer or unlawful detainer actions — Writ of restitution — Application — Order — Hearing.

The plaintiff, at the time of commencing an action of forcible entry or detainer or unlawful detainer, or at any time afterwards, upon filing the complaint, may apply to the superior court in which the action is pending for an order directing the defendant to appear and show cause, if any he or she has, why a writ of restitution should not issue restoring to the plaintiff possession of the property in the complaint described, and the judge shall by order fix a time and place for a hearing of the motion, which shall not be less than seven nor more than thirty days from the date of service of the order upon defendant. A copy of the order, together with a copy of the summons and complaint if not previously served upon the defendant, shall be served upon the defendant. The order shall notify the defendant that if he or she fails to appear and show cause at the time and place specified by the order the court may order the sheriff to restore possession of the property to the plaintiff and may grant such other relief as may be prayed for in the complaint and provided by this chapter.
[ 2005 c 130 s 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 207 s 38.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 59.18.370

What does Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.370 cover?

Section 59.18.370 ("Forcible entry or detainer or unlawful detainer actions — Writ of restitution — Application — Order — Hearing.") 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 § 59.18.370?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.370" (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 § 59.18.370 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.