Washington § 48.05.200 - Commissioner as attorney for service of process — Exception.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 48.05.200 — Commissioner as attorney for service of process — Exception., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 48.05.200. Commissioner as attorney for service of process — Exception.

(1) Each authorized foreign or alien insurer must appoint the commissioner as its attorney to receive service of, and upon whom must be served, all legal process issued against it in this state upon causes of action arising within this state. Service upon the commissioner as attorney constitutes service upon the insurer. Service of legal process against the insurer can be had only by service upon the commissioner, except actions upon contractor bonds pursuant to RCW 18.27.040, where service may be upon the department of labor and industries.
(2) With the appointment the insurer must designate by name, email address, and address the person to whom the commissioner must forward legal process so served upon him or her. The insurer may change the person by filing a new designation.
(3) The insurer must keep the designation, address, and email address filed with the commissioner current.
(4) The appointment of the commissioner as attorney is irrevocable, binds any successor in interest or to the assets or liabilities of the insurer, and remains in effect as long as there is in force in this state any contract made by the insurer or liabilities or duties arising therefrom.
(5) The service of process must be accomplished and processed in the manner prescribed under RCW 48.02.200.
[ 2011 c 47 s 5; 1985 c 264 s 3; 1947 c 79 s .05.20; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.05.20.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 48.05.200

What does Revised Code of Washington § 48.05.200 cover?

Section 48.05.200 ("Commissioner as attorney for service of process — Exception.") 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 § 48.05.200?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 48.05.200" (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 § 48.05.200 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.