Washington § 71.05.040 - Detention or judicial commitment of persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 71.05.040 — Detention or judicial commitment of persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 71.05.040. Detention or judicial commitment of persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia.

Persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia shall not be detained for evaluation and treatment or judicially committed solely by reason of that condition unless such condition causes a person to be gravely disabled or to present a likelihood of serious harm. However, persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia and who otherwise meet the criteria for detention or judicial commitment are not ineligible for detention or commitment based on this condition alone.
[ 2020 c 302 s 8; 2018 c 201 s 3004; 2004 c 166 s 2; 1997 c 112 s 4; 1987 c 439 s 1; 1977 ex.s. c 80 s 41; 1975 1st ex.s. c 199 s 1; 1974 ex.s. c 145 s 5; 1973 1st ex.s. c 142 s 9.]

Notes

Findings—Intent—Effective date—2018 c 201: See notes following RCW 41.05.018.
Severability—2004 c 166: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2004 c 166 s 23.]
Effective dates—2004 c 166: "This act takes effect July 1, 2004, except for sections 6, 20, and 22 of this act, which are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and take effect immediately [March 26, 2004]." [ 2004 c 166 s 24.]
Purpose—Intent—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 80: See notes following RCW 4.16.190.

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 71.05.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 71.05.040 cover?

Section 71.05.040 ("Detention or judicial commitment of persons with developmental disabilities, impaired by substance use disorder, or suffering from dementia.") 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 § 71.05.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 71.05.040" (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 § 71.05.040 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.