Washington legal term
Reasonable time in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Reasonable time” 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 “Reasonable time” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Reasonable time" means the time necessary to permit the person detained to make a statement or to refuse to make a statement, and the time necessary to allow a law enforcement officer to determine the lawfulness of the consumption or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs. (RCW 9A.16.120)
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.