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Washington criminal charge

Barratry in Washington

MisdemeanorCurrent through 2026 Washington legislative session

Barratry is a Misdemeanor under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 9.12.010. As a Misdemeanor, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Washington sets for that offense class. Washington sorts criminal offenses into class A, B, and C felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors — a gross misdemeanor is a distinct, more serious rung than a misdemeanor — with maximum penalties set by RCW 9A.20.021.

Defined by RCW 9.12.010.

What is the penalty for barratry in Washington?

Penalties for Barratry
PenaltyRangeBasisAuthority
Jail / prisonup to 90 days (statutory maximum, county jail (RCW 9A.20.021(3)); offenses outside Title 9A carry the same default under RCW 9.92.030 unless the offense fixes its own penalty)discretionaryRCW 9A.20.021
Fineup to $1,000 (statutory maximum, adult offenders (RCW 9A.20.021(5)))discretionaryRCW 9A.20.021

Applies to current.

Common questions about barratry in Washington

Is barratry a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?

Barratry is a Misdemeanor in Washington under RCW 9.12.010.

What are the penalties for barratry in Washington?

As a Misdemeanor, barratry carries up to 90 days (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000 (no mandatory minimum) under RCW 9A.20.021 (current).

Which Washington statute covers barratry?

Barratry is governed by RCW 9.12.010 (Barratry).

This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.