Washington § 4.24.005 - Tort actions — Attorneys' fees — Determination of reasonableness.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.005 — Tort actions — Attorneys' fees — Determination of reasonableness., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4.24.005. Tort actions — Attorneys' fees — Determination of reasonableness.

Any party charged with the payment of attorney's fees in any tort action may petition the court not later than forty-five days of receipt of a final billing or accounting for a determination of the reasonableness of that party's attorneys' fees. The court shall make such a determination and shall take into consideration the following:
(1) The time and labor required, the novelty and difficulty of the questions involved, and the skill requisite to perform the legal service properly;
(2) The likelihood, if apparent to the client, that the acceptance of the particular employment will preclude other employment by the lawyer;
(3) The fee customarily charged in the locality for similar legal services;
(4) The amount involved and the results obtained;
(5) The time limitations imposed by the client or by the circumstances;
(6) The nature and length of the professional relationship with the client;
(7) The experience, reputation, and ability of the lawyer or lawyers performing the services;
(8) Whether the fee is fixed or contingent;
(9) Whether the fixed or contingent fee agreement was in writing and whether the client was aware of his or her right to petition the court under this section;
(10) The terms of the fee agreement.
[ 1987 c 212 s 1601; 1986 c 305 s 201.]

Notes

Application—1987 c 212 s 1601: "Section 1601 of this act applies to agreements for attorneys' fees entered into after April 29, 1987." [ 1987 c 212 s 1602.]
Application—1986 c 305 s 201: "Section 201 of this act applies to agreements for attorney's fees entered into after June 11, 1986." [ 1986 c 305 s 202.]
Preamble—Report to legislature—Severability—1986 c 305: See notes following RCW 4.16.160.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 4.24.005

What does Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.005 cover?

Section 4.24.005 ("Tort actions — Attorneys' fees — Determination of reasonableness.") 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.

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A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 4.24.005" (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.

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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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