Bill > HB1053

This bill amends existing Washington state law to enhance juvenile protections during interactions with law enforcement by mandating access to an attorney before a juvenile can waive their constitutional rights in specific situations. The bill requires law enforcement to provide juveniles (individuals under 18 years old) with an opportunity to consult an attorney before or during custodial interrogations, detentions based on probable cause, or requests for consent to search. The consultation, which can occur in person, by phone, or videoconference, cannot be waived, and any statements made by a juvenile without prior legal consultation are generally inadmissible in court, with limited exceptions such as spontaneous statements or impeachment purposes. The bill introduces a new exception allowing law enforcement to question a juvenile without attorney consultation if the juvenile is detained for both a criminal street gang-related offense and a violent or serious violent offense. The legislation aims to ensure that juveniles understand their rights and have access to legal counsel during critical interactions with law enforcement, thereby protecting them from potential self-incrimination and providing additional procedural safeguards.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1053&Year=2025&Initiative=false