Washington § 11.90.250 - In-state court declining jurisdiction.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 11.90.250 — In-state court declining jurisdiction., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 11.90.250. In-state court declining jurisdiction.

(1) A court of this state having jurisdiction under RCW 11.90.220 to appoint a guardian or issue a protective order may decline to exercise its jurisdiction if it determines at any time that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum.
(2) If a court of this state declines to exercise its jurisdiction under subsection (1) of this section, it shall either dismiss or stay the proceeding. The court may impose any condition the court considers just and proper, including the condition that a petition for the appointment of a guardian or issuance of a protective order be filed promptly in another state.
(3) In determining whether it is an appropriate forum, the court shall consider all relevant factors, including:
(a) Any expressed preference of the respondent;
(b) Whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the respondent has occurred or is likely to occur and which state could best protect the respondent from the abuse, neglect, or exploitation;
(c) The length of time the respondent was physically present in or was a legal resident of this or another state;
(d) The distance of the respondent from the court in each state;
(e) The financial circumstances of the respondent's estate;
(f) The nature and location of the evidence;
(g) The ability of the court in each state to decide the issue expeditiously and the procedures necessary to present evidence;
(h) The familiarity of the court of each state with the facts and issues in the proceeding; and
(i) If an appointment were made, the court's ability to monitor the conduct of the guardian or conservator.
[ 2020 c 312 s 503; 2009 c 81 s 12.]

Notes

Effective dates—2020 c 312: See note following RCW 11.130.915.
Effective date—2009 c 81: See note following RCW 11.90.010.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 11.90.250

What does Revised Code of Washington § 11.90.250 cover?

Section 11.90.250 ("In-state court declining jurisdiction.") 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 § 11.90.250?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 11.90.250" (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 § 11.90.250 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.