Washington § 10.37.050 - Indictment or information — Sufficiency.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 10.37.050 — Indictment or information — Sufficiency., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 10.37.050. Indictment or information — Sufficiency.

The indictment or information is sufficient if it can be understood therefrom—
(1) That it is entitled in a court having authority to receive it;
(2) That it was found by a grand jury or prosecuting attorney of the county in which the court was held;
(3) That the defendant is named, or if his or her name cannot be discovered, that he or she is described by a fictitious name or by reference to a unique genetic sequence of deoxyribonucleic acid, with the statement that his or her real name is unknown;
(4) That the crime was committed within the jurisdiction of the court, except where, as provided by law, the act, though done without the county in which the court is held, is triable therein;
(5) That the crime was committed at some time previous to the finding of the indictment or filing of the information, and within the time limited by law for the commencement of an action therefor;
(6) That the act or omission charged as the crime is clearly and distinctly set forth in ordinary and concise language, without repetition, and in such a manner as to enable a person of common understanding to know what is intended;
(7) The act or omission charged as the crime is stated with such a degree of certainty as to enable the court to pronounce judgment upon a conviction according to the right of the case.
[ 2010 c 8 s 1037; 2000 c 92 s 3; 1891 c 28 s 29; Code 1881 s 1014; 1873 p 226 s 197; 1869 p 242 s 192; RRS s 2065. FORMER PARTS OF SECTION: (i) 1891 c 28 s 20; Code 1881 s 1004; 1873 p 224 s 187; 1869 p 240 s 182; RRS s 2055, now codified as RCW 10.37.052. (ii) 1891 c 28 s 22; Code 1881 s 1006; 1873 p 225 s 189; 1854 p 112 s 61; 1869 p 241 s 184; RRS s 2057, now codified as RCW 10.37.054. (iii) 1891 c 28 s 30; Code 1881 s 1015; 1873 p 227 s 198; 1869 p 242 s 193; RRS s 2066, now codified as RCW 10.37.056.]

Notes

Intent—2000 c 92: See note following RCW 10.73.170.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 10.37.050

What does Revised Code of Washington § 10.37.050 cover?

Section 10.37.050 ("Indictment or information — Sufficiency.") 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 § 10.37.050?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 10.37.050" (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 § 10.37.050 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.