Washington legal term
Coercive control in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Coercive control” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Washington criminal code.
What does “Coercive control” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Coercive control" means a pattern of behavior that is used to cause another to suffer physical, emotional, or psychological harm, and in purpose or effect unreasonably interferes with a person's free will and personal liberty. (RCW 7.105.010)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.