Washington § 59.18.640 - Indigent tenants.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.640 — Indigent tenants., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 59.18.640. Indigent tenants.

(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the court must appoint an attorney for an indigent tenant in an unlawful detainer proceeding under this chapter and chapters 59.12 and 59.20 RCW. The office of civil legal aid is responsible for implementation of this subsection as provided in RCW 2.53.050, and the state shall pay the costs of legal services provided by an attorney appointed pursuant to this subsection. In implementing this section, the office of civil legal aid shall assign priority to providing legal representation to indigent tenants in those counties in which the most evictions occur and to indigent tenants who are disproportionately at risk of eviction.
(2) For purposes of this section, "indigent" means any person who, at any stage of a court proceeding, is:
(a) Receiving one of the following types of public assistance: Temporary assistance for needy families, aged, blind, or disabled assistance benefits, medical care services under RCW 74.09.035, pregnant women assistance benefits, poverty-related veterans' benefits, food stamps or food stamp benefits transferred electronically, refugee resettlement benefits, medicaid, or supplemental security income; or
(b) Receiving an annual income, after taxes, of 200 percent or less of the current federally established poverty level.
[ 2021 c 115 s 8.]

Notes

Finding—Intent—Application—Effective date—2021 c 115: See notes following RCW 59.18.620.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 59.18.640

What does Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.640 cover?

Section 59.18.640 ("Indigent tenants.") 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 § 59.18.640?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.640" (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 § 59.18.640 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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