Washington § 43.10.090 - Criminal investigations — Supervision.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 43.10.090 — Criminal investigations — Supervision., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 43.10.090. Criminal investigations — Supervision.

Upon the written request of the governor, the attorney general shall investigate violations of the criminal laws within this state.
If, after such investigation, the attorney general believes that the criminal laws are improperly enforced in any county, and that the prosecuting attorney of the county has failed or neglected to institute and prosecute violations of such criminal laws, either generally or with regard to a specific offense or class of offenses, the attorney general shall direct the prosecuting attorney to take such action in connection with any prosecution as the attorney general determines to be necessary and proper.
If any prosecuting attorney, after the receipt of such instructions from the attorney general, fails or neglects to comply therewith within a reasonable time, the attorney general may initiate and prosecute such criminal actions as he or she shall determine. In connection therewith, the attorney general shall have the same powers as would otherwise be vested in the prosecuting attorney.
From the time the attorney general has initiated or taken over a criminal prosecution, the prosecuting attorney shall not have power or authority to take any legal steps relating to such prosecution, except as authorized or directed by the attorney general.
[ 2009 c 549 s 5051; 1965 c 8 s 43.10.090. Prior: 1937 c 88 s 1; RRS s 112-1.]

Notes

Corporations, governor may require attorney general to investigate: RCW 43.06.010.
Prosecuting attorneys, governor may require attorney general to aid: RCW 43.06.010.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 43.10.090

What does Revised Code of Washington § 43.10.090 cover?

Section 43.10.090 ("Criminal investigations — Supervision.") 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 § 43.10.090?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 43.10.090" (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 § 43.10.090 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

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