Bill > HB1361

This bill updates the process service requirements in Washington state for serving legal documents on various entities and individuals. The bill amends three existing laws (RCW 4.28.080, 4.28.100, and 46.64.040) to clarify and streamline how legal summons and processes can be served. Key changes include updating the methods of serving legal documents on different types of entities, such as corporations, insurance companies, and nonresidents. For businesses, the bill now references a new standard in RCW 23.95.400 for process service. The bill also modifies rules for serving documents on nonresidents operating vehicles in the state, establishing that operating a vehicle in Washington constitutes consent to be served legal documents through the secretary of state if the individual cannot be personally served. Additionally, the bill repeals an older statute (RCW 4.28.090) related to serving corporations without a local officer. The changes aim to provide more clear and efficient methods for legal service, particularly in cases where direct personal service is difficult, by establishing standardized procedures for serving summons and legal processes through official channels like the secretary of state.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1361&Year=2025&Initiative=false