Washington § 13.34.161 - Order of support for dependent child — Noncompliance — Enforcement of judgment.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 13.34.161 — Order of support for dependent child — Noncompliance — Enforcement of judgment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 13.34.161. Order of support for dependent child — Noncompliance — Enforcement of judgment.

In any case in which the court has ordered a parent or parents, guardian, or other person having custody of a child to pay support under RCW 13.34.160 and the order has not been complied with, the court may, upon such person or persons being duly summoned or voluntarily appearing, proceed to inquire into the amount due upon the order and enter judgment for that amount against the defaulting party or parties, and the judgment shall be docketed as are other judgments for the payment of money.
In such judgments, the county in which the order is entered shall be the judgment creditor, or the state may be the judgment creditor where the child is in the custody of a state agency. Judgments may be enforced by the prosecuting attorney of the county, or the attorney general where the state is the judgment creditor and any moneys recovered shall be paid into the registry of the juvenile court and shall be disbursed to such person, persons, agency, or governmental department as the court finds is entitled to it.
Such judgments shall remain valid and enforceable for a period of ten years after the date of entry.
[ 2000 c 122 s 22; 1981 c 195 s 9; 1977 ex.s. c 291 s 45; 1961 c 302 s 8; 1955 c 188 s 1. Formerly RCW 13.34.170, 13.04.105.]

Notes

Effective dates—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 291: See notes following RCW 13.04.005.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 13.34.161

What does Revised Code of Washington § 13.34.161 cover?

Section 13.34.161 ("Order of support for dependent child — Noncompliance — Enforcement of judgment.") 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 § 13.34.161?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 13.34.161" (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 § 13.34.161 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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