Bill > HB1920

This bill modifies Washington state law to enhance juvenile protections during law enforcement interactions by requiring that juveniles (individuals under 18) be provided access to an attorney before waiving any constitutional rights in specific situations, such as during custodial interrogation, detention based on probable cause, or when consent is requested for an evidentiary search. The attorney consultation, which can be in-person, by phone, or videoconference, cannot be waived, and any statements made by a juvenile without first consulting an attorney are generally inadmissible in court. The bill creates limited exceptions to this rule, such as when an officer believes a juvenile is a victim of trafficking, when there is an imminent threat to an individual's life, or when the conversation could help reduce potential harm to the juvenile or others. In these exceptional cases, any information obtained may have restrictions on its use in prosecution. The law also specifies that after consulting with legal counsel, a juvenile can choose to assert constitutional rights through their attorney, and any such assertion must be treated as coming directly from the juvenile. The bill aims to protect juveniles' legal rights and ensure they have proper legal guidance during interactions with law enforcement.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1920&Year=2025&Initiative=false