Washington § 26.44.040 - Reports — Oral, written — Contents.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.040 — Reports — Oral, written — Contents., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26.44.040. Reports — Oral, written — Contents.

An immediate oral report must be made by telephone or otherwise to the proper law enforcement agency or the department and, upon request, must be followed by a report in writing. Such reports must contain the following information, if known:
(1) The name, address, and age of the child;
(2) The name and address of the child's parents, stepparents, guardians, or other persons having custody of the child;
(3) The nature and extent of the alleged injury or injuries;
(4) The nature and extent of the alleged neglect;
(5) The nature and extent of the alleged sexual abuse;
(6) Any evidence of previous injuries, including their nature and extent; and
(7) Any other information that may be helpful in establishing the cause of the child's death, injury, or injuries and the identity of the alleged perpetrator or perpetrators.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 s 323; 1999 c 176 s 32; 1997 c 386 s 27; 1993 c 412 s 14; 1987 c 206 s 4; 1984 c 97 s 4; 1977 ex.s. c 80 s 27; 1975 1st ex.s. c 217 s 4; 1971 ex.s. c 167 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 35 s 4; 1965 c 13 s 4.]

Notes

Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 ss 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Conflict with federal requirements—1999 c 176: See notes following RCW 74.34.005.
Application—Effective date—1997 c 386: See notes following RCW 13.50.010.
Purpose—Intent—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 80: See notes following RCW 4.16.190.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 26.44.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.040 cover?

Section 26.44.040 ("Reports — Oral, written — Contents.") 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 § 26.44.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 26.44.040" (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 § 26.44.040 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

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.