Washington § 5.40.020 - Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 5.40.020 — Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5.40.020. Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence.

A written finding of presumed death, made by the secretary of war, the secretary of the navy, or other officer or employee of the United States authorized to make such finding, pursuant to the federal missing persons act (56 Stat. 143, 1092, and P.L. 408, Ch. 371, 2d Sess. 78th Cong.; U.S.C. App. Supp. 1001-17), as now or hereafter amended, or a duly certified copy of such finding, shall be received in any court, office, or other place in this state as prima facie evidence of the death of the person therein found to be dead, and the date, circumstances, and place of his or her disappearance.
[ 2011 c 336 s 136; 1945 c 101 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 1257-1.]

Notes

Severability—1945 c 101: "If any provision of this act or the application thereof to any person or circumstance be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect any other provision or application of the act which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this act are declared to be severable." [ 1945 c 101 s 4.] This applies to RCW 5.40.020 through 5.40.040.

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 5.40.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 5.40.020 cover?

Section 5.40.020 ("Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence.") 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 § 5.40.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 5.40.020" (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 § 5.40.020 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.