Washington legal term
Deadly force in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Deadly force” 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 “Deadly force” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Deadly force" has the same meaning as provided in RCW 9A.16.010. (RCW 10.120.010)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.