Washington legal term
Immediate threat of serious physical injury or death in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Immediate threat of serious physical injury or death” 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 “Immediate threat of serious physical injury or death” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Immediate threat of serious physical injury or death" means that, based on the totality of the circumstances, it is objectively reasonable to believe that a person has the present and apparent ability, opportunity, and intent to immediately cause death or serious bodily injury to the peace officer or another person. (RCW 10.120.020)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.