Washington legal term
Totality of the circumstances in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Totality of the circumstances” 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 “Totality of the circumstances” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Totality of the circumstances" means all facts known to the peace officer leading up to, and at the time of, the use of force, and includes the actions of the person against whom the peace officer uses such force, and the actions of the peace officer. (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.