Rule 5.1 – Commencement of Actions

May 14, 2021 | Criminal Procedure, Washington

(a) Where Commenced. All actions shall be commenced:

(1) In the county where the offense was committed;
(2) In any county wherein an element of the offense was committed or occurred.
(b) Two or More Counties. When there is reasonable doubt whether an offense has been committed in one of two or more counties, the action may be commenced in any such county.
(c) Right To Change. When a case is filed pursuant to section (b) of this rule, the defendant shall have the right to change venue to any other county in which the offense may have been committed. Any objection to venue must be made as soon after the initial pleading is filed as the defendant has knowledge upon which to make it.

Wash. Sup. Ct. Crim. R. 5.1

Comment

Supersedes RCW 10.25.010, .020, .030, .040, .050, .060, .110.