Bill > SB5603

This bill establishes new legal protections for juveniles during interactions with law enforcement in Washington state, specifically addressing access to legal counsel. The bill creates different requirements for jurisdictions with populations over and under 1 million people. For jurisdictions with populations greater than 1 million (primarily targeting larger urban areas), law enforcement must provide juveniles with an in-person attorney consultation before questioning, detaining, or requesting consent for searches. The consultation is mandatory and cannot be waived, and any statements made by the juvenile without proper legal consultation are generally inadmissible in court. The bill includes exceptions for emergency situations, such as protecting an individual from an imminent threat or identifying a trafficking victim. Key definitions clarify that "juvenile" means anyone under 18 and "law enforcement officer" includes various types of peace officers and code enforcement personnel. For smaller jurisdictions, similar protections are established, but legal consultation can be conducted via telephone or videoconference. The overall aim is to ensure juveniles understand their constitutional rights and have legal support during potential criminal interactions, protecting them from self-incrimination and providing procedural safeguards.

Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5603&Year=2025&Initiative=false