Washington § 26.27.541 - Role of prosecutor or attorney general.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 26.27.541 — Role of prosecutor or attorney general., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26.27.541. Role of prosecutor or attorney general.

(1) In a case arising under this chapter or involving the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, the prosecutor or attorney general may take any lawful action, including resorting to a proceeding under this article or any other available civil proceeding to locate a child, obtain the return of a child, or enforce a child custody determination if there is:
(a) An existing child custody determination;
(b) A request to do so from a court in a pending child custody proceeding;
(c) A reasonable belief that a criminal statute has been violated; or
(d) A reasonable belief that the child has been wrongfully removed or retained in violation of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
(2) A prosecutor or attorney general acting under this section acts on behalf of the court and may not represent any party.
[ 2001 c 65 s 315.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 26.27.541

What does Revised Code of Washington § 26.27.541 cover?

Section 26.27.541 ("Role of prosecutor or attorney general.") 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 § 26.27.541?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 26.27.541" (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 § 26.27.541 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.

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