Washington legal term
Possession in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Possession” 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 “Possession” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Possession" means having an item in one's custody or control. (RCW 7.105.010)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Assault weapons
- Carrying firearms
- Criminal sabotage defined
- Deadly weapons
- Dealer's licenses, by whom granted, conditions, fees
- Driving without a license
- False identification as a peace officer
- Financial fraud
- Gambling records
- Improper use of flag prohibited
- Intercepting, transmitting, or recording conversations concerning controlled substances or commercial sexual abuse of a minor
- Making or having burglar tools
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.