Washington § 43.43.770 - Unidentified deceased persons.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.770 — Unidentified deceased persons., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 43.43.770. Unidentified deceased persons.

It shall be the duty of the sheriff or director of public safety of every county, or the chief of police of every city or town, or the chief officer of other law enforcement agencies operating within this state, coroners or medical examiners, to record whenever possible the fingerprints and such other identification data as may be useful to establish identity, of all unidentified dead bodies found within their respective jurisdictions, and to furnish to the section all data so obtained. The section shall search its files and otherwise make a reasonable effort to determine the identity of the deceased and notify the contributing agency of the finding.
In all cases where there is found to exist a criminal record for the deceased, the section shall notify the federal bureau of investigation and each criminal justice agency, within or outside the state in whose jurisdiction the decedent has been arrested, of the date and place of death of decedent.
[ 1972 ex.s. c 152 s 15.]

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 43.43.770

What does Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.770 cover?

Section 43.43.770 ("Unidentified deceased persons.") 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 § 43.43.770?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 43.43.770" (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 § 43.43.770 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.