Washington § 44.16.120 - Punishment of recalcitrant witness.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 44.16.120 — Punishment of recalcitrant witness., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 44.16.120. Punishment of recalcitrant witness.

Any person who shall fail to attend as a witness upon any committee appointed by either the house or senate of the state of Washington, or both, after having been duly subpoenaed as provided in this chapter, or who, being in attendance as a witness before such committee, shall refuse to answer any question or produce any paper or document or book which he or she is required to answer or to produce by such committee, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be fined in any sum not exceeding five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment in the county jail for a term not longer than six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
[ 2009 c 549 s 6010; 1897 c 33 s 1; RRS s 8194.]

Notes

Witness refusing to attend legislature or committee or to testify: RCW 9.55.020.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 44.16.120

What does Revised Code of Washington § 44.16.120 cover?

Section 44.16.120 ("Punishment of recalcitrant witness.") 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 § 44.16.120?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 44.16.120" (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 § 44.16.120 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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