Washington legal term
Vulnerable adult in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Vulnerable adult” 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 “Vulnerable adult” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Vulnerable adult" includes a person: (a) Sixty years of age or older who has the functional, mental, or physical inability to care for himself or herself; or (b) Subject to a guardianship under RCW 11.130.265 or adult subject to conservatorship under RCW 11.130.360; or (c) Who has a developmental disability as defined under RCW 71A.10.020; or (d) Admitted to any facility; or (e) Receiving services from home health, hospice, or home care agencies licensed or required to be licensed under chapter 70.127 RCW; or (f) Receiving services from a person under contract with the department of social an (RCW 7.105.010)
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.