Washington § 21.20.400 - Penalty for violation of chapter — Limitation of actions.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 21.20.400 — Penalty for violation of chapter — Limitation of actions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 21.20.400. Penalty for violation of chapter — Limitation of actions.

(1) Any person who willfully violates any provision of this chapter except RCW 21.20.350, or who willfully violates any rule or order under this chapter, or who willfully violates RCW 21.20.350 knowing the statement made to be false or misleading in any material respect, is guilty of a class B felony punishable under RCW 9A.20.021(1)(b). However, a person may not be imprisoned for the violation of any rule or order if that person proves that he or she had no knowledge of the rule or order.
(2) Any person who knowingly alters, destroys, shreds, mutilates, or conceals a record, document, or other object, or attempts to do so, with the intent to impair the object's integrity or availability for use in an official proceeding under this chapter, is guilty of a class B felony punishable under RCW 9A.20.021(1)(b) or punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred thousand dollars, or both. The fines paid under this subsection shall be deposited into the securities prosecution fund.
(3) No indictment or information may be returned under this chapter more than (a) five years after the violation, or (b) three years after the actual discovery of the violation, whichever date of limitation is later.
[ 2016 c 61 s 13. Prior: 2003 c 288 s 3; 2003 c 53 s 163; 1979 ex.s. c 68 s 28; 1965 c 17 s 5; 1959 c 282 s 40.]

Notes

Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 21.20.400

What does Revised Code of Washington § 21.20.400 cover?

Section 21.20.400 ("Penalty for violation of chapter — Limitation of actions.") 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 § 21.20.400?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 21.20.400" (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 § 21.20.400 apply to my situation?

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Sources & Verification

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