Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 71A.10.070 — Secretary's duty to consult., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 71A.10.070. Secretary's duty to consult.
(1) Whenever this title places on the secretary the duty to consult, the secretary shall carry out that duty by consulting with the person with a developmental disability and, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, with at least one other person. The other person shall be in order of priority:
(a) A legal representative of the person with a developmental disability;
(b) A parent of a person with a developmental disability who is eighteen years of age or older;
(c) Other kin of the person with a developmental disability, with preference to persons with the closest kinship;
(d) The Washington protection and advocacy system for the rights of persons with developmental disabilities, appointed in compliance with 42 U.S.C. Sec. 6042; or
(e) Any other person who is not an employee of the department or of a person who contracts with the department under this title who, in the opinion of the secretary, will be concerned with the welfare of the person.
(2) A person with a developmental disability may in writing request the secretary to consult only with that person. The secretary shall comply with that direction unless the secretary denies the request because the person may be at risk of losing rights if the secretary complies with the request. The secretary shall give notice as provided in RCW
71A.10.060 when a request is denied. On filing an application with the secretary within thirty days of receipt of the notice, the person who made the request has the right to an adjudicative proceeding under RCW
71A.10.050 on the secretary's decision.
(3) Consultation with a person under this section does not authorize the person who is consulted to take any action or give any consent.
Notes
Effective date—1989 c 175: See note following RCW
34.05.010.
Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 71A.10.070
What does Revised Code of Washington § 71A.10.070 cover?
Section 71A.10.070 ("Secretary's duty to consult.") 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 § 71A.10.070?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 71A.10.070" (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 § 71A.10.070 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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