Washington § 9A.64.030 - Child selling — Child buying.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9A.64.030 — Child selling — Child buying., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9A.64.030. Child selling — Child buying.

(1) It is unlawful for any person to sell or purchase a minor child.
(2) A transaction shall not be a purchase or sale under subsection (1) of this section if any of the following exists:
(a) The transaction is between the parents of the minor child; or
(b) The transaction is between a person receiving or to receive the child and an agency recognized under RCW 26.33.020; or
(c) The transaction is between the person receiving or to receive the child and a state agency or other governmental agency; or
(d) The transaction is pursuant to chapter 26.34 RCW; or
(e) The transaction is pursuant to court order; or
(f) The only consideration paid by the person receiving or to receive the child is intended to pay for the prenatal hospital or medical expenses involved in the birth of the child, or attorneys' fees and court costs involved in effectuating transfer of child custody.
(3)(a) Child selling is a class C felony.
(b) Child buying is a class C felony.
[ 2003 c 53 s 81; 1985 c 7 s 3; 1980 c 85 s 3.]

Notes

Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Severability—1980 c 85: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1980 c 85 s 5.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9A.64.030

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9A.64.030 cover?

Section 9A.64.030 ("Child selling — Child buying.") 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 § 9A.64.030?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9A.64.030" (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 § 9A.64.030 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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