Washington criminal charge
Reckless endangerment in Washington
Reckless endangerment is a Gross Misdemeanor under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 9A.36.050. As a Gross 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 9A.36.050.
What is the penalty for reckless endangerment in Washington?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 364 days (statutory maximum, county jail (RCW 9A.20.021(2)); offenses outside Title 9A carry the same default under RCW 9.92.020 unless the offense fixes its own penalty) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
| Fine | up to $5,000 (statutory maximum, adult offenders (RCW 9A.20.021(5))) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
Applies to current.
Common questions about reckless endangerment in Washington
Is reckless endangerment a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
Reckless endangerment is a Gross Misdemeanor in Washington under RCW 9A.36.050.
What are the penalties for reckless endangerment in Washington?
As a Gross Misdemeanor, reckless endangerment carries up to 364 days (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000 (no mandatory minimum) under RCW 9A.20.021 (current).
Which Washington statute covers reckless endangerment?
Reckless endangerment is governed by RCW 9A.36.050 (Reckless endangerment).
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.