Washington § 12.40.010 - Department authorized — Jurisdictional amount.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.010 — Department authorized — Jurisdictional amount., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12.40.010. Department authorized — Jurisdictional amount.

(1) In every district court there shall be created and organized by the court a department to be known as the "small claims department of the district court." The small claims department shall have jurisdiction, but not exclusive, in cases for the recovery of money only if the amount claimed does not exceed:
(a) Ten thousand dollars in cases brought by a natural person; or
(b) Five thousand dollars in all other cases.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "natural person" means a human being.
[ 2019 c 86 s 1; 2008 c 227 s 2; 2001 c 154 s 1; 1991 c 71 s 1; 1988 c 85 s 1; 1984 c 258 s 57; 1981 c 331 s 10; 1979 c 102 s 4; 1973 c 128 s 1; 1970 ex.s. c 83 s 1; 1963 c 123 s 1; 1919 c 187 s 1; RRS s 1777-1.]

Notes

Effective date—Subheadings not law—2008 c 227: See notes following RCW 3.50.003.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Court Congestion Reduction Act of 1981—Purpose—Severability—1981 c 331: See notes following RCW 2.32.070.
Application, savings—Effective date—Severability—1979 c 102: See notes following RCW 3.66.020.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 12.40.010

What does Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.010 cover?

Section 12.40.010 ("Department authorized — Jurisdictional amount.") 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 § 12.40.010?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.010" (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 § 12.40.010 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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