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Washington legal term

Collateral attack in Washington Criminal Law

Current through 2026 Washington legislative session

In Washington criminal law, “Collateral attack” 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 “Collateral attack” mean in Washington criminal law?

"Collateral attack" includes, but is not limited to, a personal restraint petition, a habeas corpus petition, a motion to vacate judgment, a motion to withdraw guilty plea, a motion for a new trial, and a motion to arrest judgment. (RCW 10.73.090)

Statutes defining or using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.