Washington § 26.33.170 - Consent to adoption — When not required.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 26.33.170 — Consent to adoption — When not required., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26.33.170. Consent to adoption — When not required.

(1) An agency's, the department's, or a legal guardian's consent to adoption may be dispensed with if the court determines by clear, cogent and convincing evidence that the proposed adoption is in the best interests of the adoptee.
(2) An *alleged father's, birth parent's, or parent's consent to adoption shall be dispensed with if the court finds that the proposed adoption is in the best interests of the adoptee and:
(a) The *alleged father, birth parent, or parent has been found guilty of rape under chapter 9A.44 RCW or incest under RCW 9A.64.020, where the adoptee was the victim of the rape or incest; or
(b) The *alleged father, birth parent, or parent has been found guilty of rape under chapter 9A.44 RCW or incest under RCW 9A.64.020, or has been found by clear and convincing evidence to have committed a sexual assault, where the other parent of the adoptee was the victim of the rape, incest, or sexual assault and the adoptee was conceived as a result of the rape, incest, or sexual assault, unless the parent who is the victim indicates by affidavit or sworn testimony that consent to adoption by the person who committed the rape, incest, or sexual assault should occur.
(3) Nothing in this section shall be construed to eliminate the notice provisions of this chapter.
[ 2017 c 234 s 3; 1999 c 173 s 1; 1988 c 203 s 1; 1984 c 155 s 17.]

Notes

*Reviser's note: RCW 26.33.020 was amended by 2019 c 46 s 5034, changing the definition of "alleged father" to "alleged genetic parent."
Severability—1999 c 173: See note following RCW 13.34.125.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 26.33.170

What does Revised Code of Washington § 26.33.170 cover?

Section 26.33.170 ("Consent to adoption — When not required.") 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 § 26.33.170?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 26.33.170" (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 § 26.33.170 apply to my situation?

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Sources & Verification

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