reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.25 - Attachment. › 6.25.270 - Procedure when judgment is for defendant.

RCW 6.25.270
Procedure when judgment is for defendant.
If the defendant recovers judgment against the plaintiff, all the proceeds of sales and money collected by the sheriff and deposited with the clerk and all the property attached and retained by the sheriff shall be delivered to the defendant or the defendant's agent. The order of attachment shall be discharged and the property released therefrom.
[ 1987 c 442 § 827; 1886 p 45 § 28; RRS § 670. Prior: Code 1881 §§ 174-192; 1877 pp 35-40; 1873 pp 43-50; 1871 pp 9, 10; 1869 pp 41-47; 1863 pp 112-120; 1860 pp 30-36; 1854 pp 155-162. Formerly RCW 7.12.240.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.25 - Attachment. › 6.25.280 - Chapter to be liberally construed—Amendments.

RCW 6.25.280
Chapter to be liberally construed—Amendments.
This chapter shall be liberally construed, and the plaintiff, at any time when objection is made thereto, shall be permitted to amend any defect in the complaint, affidavit, bond, writ or other proceeding, and no attachment shall be quashed or dismissed, or the property attached released, if the defect in any of the proceedings has been or can be amended so as to show that a legal cause for the attachment existed at the time it was issued, and the court shall give the plaintiff a reasonable time to perfect such defective proceedings.
[ 1987 c 442 § 828; 1886 p 46 § 35; RRS § 677. Prior: Code 1881 §§ 174-192; 1877 pp 35-40; 1873 pp 43-50; 1871 pp 9, 10; 1869 pp 41-47; 1863 pp 112-120; 1860 pp 30-36; 1854 pp 155-162. Formerly RCW 7.12.310.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.010 - Prejudgment writs of garnishment—Grounds.

RCW 6.26.010
Prejudgment writs of garnishment—Grounds.
Except as limited by RCW 6.27.040, relating to the state and other public entities, and RCW 6.27.330, relating to continuing liens on earnings, the plaintiff at the time of commencing an action, or at any time thereafter before judgment in an action, may obtain a prejudgment writ of garnishment from a superior or district court of this state before which the action is pending on the following grounds:
(1) If the writ is issued for a purpose other than garnishing a defendant's earnings as defined in RCW 6.27.010, (a) on the ground that an attachment has been issued in accordance with chapter 6.25 RCW, (b) on the ground that the plaintiff sues on a debt that is due and owing and unpaid, or (c) on one or more of the grounds for issuance of attachment stated in RCW 6.25.030 or 6.25.040; or
(2) If the writ is directed to an employer for the purpose of garnishing earnings of a defendant, on the grounds that the defendant:
(a) Is not a resident of this state, or is about to move from this state; or
(b) Has concealed himself or herself, absconded, or absented himself or herself so that ordinary process of law cannot be served on him or her; or
(c) Has removed or is about to remove any of his or her property from this state, with intent to delay or defraud his or her creditors.
[ 1988 c 231 § 18; 1987 c 442 § 901.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.020 - Issuance of writ—Bond—Fee.

RCW 6.26.020
Issuance of writ—Bond—Fee.
In all cases of garnishment before judgment, before the writ shall issue, the plaintiff shall pay the fee described in RCW 6.27.060 and shall execute and file with the clerk a bond with sufficient sureties, to be approved by the clerk of the court issuing the writ, payable to the defendant in the suit, in double the amount of the debt claimed therein, or such other amount as the court shall fix, conditioned that the plaintiff will prosecute the suit without delay and pay all damages and costs that may be adjudged against him or her for wrongfully suing out such garnishment.
[ 1988 c 231 § 19; 1987 c 442 § 902; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 3. Formerly RCW 7.33.030.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.025 - Writs of garnishment to different garnishees.

RCW 6.26.025
Writs of garnishment to different garnishees.
If issuance of a writ of garnishment or of a writ of attachment has been ordered by the court in a case, other writs of garnishment to different garnishees may be issued in the same case under the circumstances and restrictions stated in RCW 6.25.120 for issuance of successive writs of attachment.
[ 1988 c 231 § 21.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.030 - Action on bond for wrongful garnishment—Damages and attorney's fees.

RCW 6.26.030
Action on bond for wrongful garnishment—Damages and attorney's fees.
In an action on the bond under RCW 6.26.020, if it is shown that the garnishment was wrongfully sued out, the defendant may recover the actual damages sustained and reasonable attorney's fees to be fixed by the court. If it is shown that such garnishment was sued out maliciously, the defendant may also recover exemplary damages, and the defendant need not wait until the principal suit is determined before suing on the bond by counterclaim in the original action or in a separate action.
[ 1987 c 442 § 903.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.040 - Action against plaintiff for wrongful garnishment—Damages and attorney's fees.

RCW 6.26.040
Action against plaintiff for wrongful garnishment—Damages and attorney's fees.
In all actions in which a prejudgment writ of garnishment has been issued by a court and served upon a garnishee, in the event judgment is not entered for the plaintiff on the claim sued upon by plaintiff, and the claim has not voluntarily been settled or otherwise satisfied, the defendant shall have an action for damages against the plaintiff. The defendant's action for damages may be brought by way of a counterclaim in the original action or in a separate action and, in the action the trier of fact, in addition to other actual damages sustained by the defendant, may award the defendant reasonable attorney's fees.
[ 1987 c 442 § 904; 1970 ex.s. c 61 § 4; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 34. Formerly RCW 7.33.340.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.050 - Application for prejudgment writ of garnishment—Affidavit.

RCW 6.26.050
Application for prejudgment writ of garnishment—Affidavit.
The plaintiff or someone on the plaintiff's behalf shall apply for a prejudgment writ of garnishment by affidavit, alleging that the garnishment is not sought and the action is not prosecuted to hinder, delay, or defraud any creditor of the defendant and also alleging that the affiant has reason to believe and does believe the following, together with specific facts on which the affiant's belief in the allegations is based: (1) That the defendant is indebted to the plaintiff (specifying the nature of the claim and the amount of such indebtedness over and above all just credits and offsets); (2) that one or more of the grounds for prejudgment garnishment established in RCW 6.26.010 exists; (3) that the plaintiff has reason to believe, and does believe, that the garnishee, stating the garnishee's name and residence or place of business, is indebted to the defendant in amounts exceeding those exempted from garnishment by any state or federal law, or that the garnishee has possession or control of personal property or effects belonging to the defendant which are not exempted from garnishment by any state or federal law; (4) whether or not the garnishee is the employer of the defendant; and (5) if the action is based on a debt not due, that nothing but time is wanting to fix an absolute indebtedness due from the defendant.
[ 1987 c 442 § 905.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.26 - Prejudgment Garnishment. › 6.26.070 - Application of chapter 6.27 RCW to prejudgment garnishments.

RCW 6.26.070
Application of chapter 6.27 RCW to prejudgment garnishments.
Except as otherwise provided, the provisions of chapter 6.27 RCW governing garnishments apply to prejudgment garnishments.
[ 1987 c 442 § 907.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.005 - Legislative intent.

RCW 6.27.005
Legislative intent.
The legislature recognizes that a garnishee has no responsibility for the situation leading to the garnishment of a debtor's wages, funds, or other property, but that the garnishment process is necessary for the enforcement of obligations debtors otherwise fail to honor, and that garnishment procedures benefit the state and the business community as creditors. The state should take whatever measures that are reasonably necessary to reduce or offset the administrative burden on the garnishee consistent with the goal of effectively enforcing the debtor's unpaid obligations.
[ 2000 c 72 § 1; 1998 c 227 § 1; 1997 c 296 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.010 - Definitions.

RCW 6.27.010
Definitions.
(1) As used in this chapter, the term "earnings" means compensation paid or payable to an individual for personal services, whether denominated as wages, salary, commission, bonus, or otherwise, and includes periodic payments pursuant to a governmental or nongovernmental pension or retirement program.
(2) As used in this chapter, the term "disposable earnings" means that part of earnings remaining after the deduction from those earnings of any amounts required by law to be withheld.
[ 2012 c 159 § 1; 2003 c 222 § 16; 1987 c 442 § 1001.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.020 - Grounds for issuance of writ—Time of issuance of prejudgment writs.

RCW 6.27.020
Grounds for issuance of writ—Time of issuance of prejudgment writs.
(1) The clerks of the superior courts and district courts of this state may issue writs of garnishment returnable to their respective courts for the benefit of a judgment creditor who has a judgment wholly or partially unsatisfied in the court from which the garnishment is sought.
(2) Writs of garnishment may be issued in district court with like effect by the attorney of record for the judgment creditor, and the form of writ shall be substantially the same as when issued by the court except that it shall be subscribed only by the signature of such attorney.
(3) Except as otherwise provided in RCW 6.27.040 and 6.27.330, the superior courts and district courts of this state may issue prejudgment writs of garnishment to a plaintiff at the time of commencement of an action or at any time afterward, subject to the requirements of chapter 6.26 RCW.
[ 2003 c 222 § 1; 1987 c 442 § 1002; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 1. Formerly RCW 7.33.010.]
NOTES:
Rules of court: Cf. CR 64.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.030 - Application of chapter to district courts.

RCW 6.27.030
Application of chapter to district courts.
All the provisions of this chapter shall apply to proceedings before district courts of this state.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1003; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 2. Formerly RCW 7.33.020.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.040 - State and municipal corporations subject to garnishment—Service of writ.

RCW 6.27.040
State and municipal corporations subject to garnishment—Service of writ.
(1) The state of Washington, all counties, cities, towns, school districts and other municipal corporations shall be subject to garnishment after judgment has been entered in the principal action, but not before, in the superior and district courts, in the same manner and with the same effect, as provided in the case of other garnishees.
(2) The venue of any such garnishment proceeding shall be the same as for the original action, and the writ shall be issued by the clerk of the court having jurisdiction of such original action or by the attorney of record for the judgment creditor in district court.
(3) The writ of garnishment shall be served upon the same officer as is required for service of summons upon the commencement of a civil action against the state, county, city, town, school district, or other municipal corporation, as the case may be.
[ 2003 c 222 § 2. Prior: 1987 c 442 § 1004; 1987 c 202 § 134; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 6. Formerly RCW 7.33.060.]
NOTES:
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.050 - Garnishment of money held by officer—Of judgment debtor—Of personal representative.

RCW 6.27.050
Garnishment of money held by officer—Of judgment debtor—Of personal representative.
A sheriff or other peace officer who holds money of the defendant is subject to garnishment, excepting only for money or property taken from a person arrested by such officer, at the time of the arrest. A judgment debtor of the defendant is subject to garnishment when the judgment has not been previously assigned on the record or by writing filed in the office of the clerk of the court that entered the judgment and minuted by the clerk as an assignment in the execution docket. An executor or administrator is subject to garnishment for money due from the decedent to the defendant.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1005; 1927 c 101 § 1; 1886 p 43 § 19; RRS § 664. Prior: Code 1881 §§ 174-192; 1877 pp 35-40; 1873 pp 43-50; 1871 pp 9, 10; 1869 pp 41-47; 1863 pp 112-120; 1860 pp 30-36; 1854 pp 155-162. Formerly RCW 7.12.180.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.060 - Application for writ—Affidavit—Fee.

RCW 6.27.060
Application for writ—Affidavit—Fee.
The judgment creditor as the plaintiff or someone in the judgment creditor's behalf shall apply for a writ of garnishment by affidavit, stating the following facts: (1) The plaintiff has a judgment wholly or partially unsatisfied in the court from which the writ is sought; (2) the amount alleged to be due under that judgment; (3) the plaintiff has reason to believe, and does believe that the garnishee, stating the garnishee's name and residence or place of business, is indebted to the defendant in amounts exceeding those exempted from garnishment by any state or federal law, or that the garnishee has possession or control of personal property or effects belonging to the defendant which are not exempted from garnishment by any state or federal law; and (4) whether or not the garnishee is the employer of the judgment debtor.
The judgment creditor shall pay to the clerk of the superior court the fee provided by RCW 36.18.016(6), or to the clerk of the district court the fee provided by RCW 3.62.060.
[ 2018 c 22 § 4; 2003 c 222 § 17; 1988 c 231 § 22. Prior: 1987 c 442 § 1006; 1987 c 202 § 133; 1981 c 193 § 3; 1977 ex.s. c 55 § 1; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 4. Formerly RCW 7.33.040.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2018 c 22: See note following RCW 1.20.051.
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.070 - Issuance of writ—Form—Dating—Attestation.

RCW 6.27.070
Issuance of writ—Form—Dating—Attestation.
(1) When application for a writ of garnishment is made by a judgment creditor and the requirements of RCW 6.27.060 have been complied with, the clerk shall docket the case in the names of the judgment creditor as plaintiff, the judgment debtor as defendant, and the garnishee as garnishee defendant, and shall immediately issue and deliver a writ of garnishment to the judgment creditor in the form prescribed in RCW 6.27.100, directed to the garnishee, commanding the garnishee to answer said writ on forms served with the writ and complying with RCW 6.27.190 within twenty days after the service of the writ upon the garnishee. The clerk shall likewise docket the case when a writ of garnishment issued by the attorney of record of a judgment creditor is filed. Whether a writ is issued by the clerk or an attorney, the clerk shall bear no responsibility for errors contained in the writ.
(2) The writ of garnishment shall be dated and attested as in the form prescribed in RCW 6.27.100. The name and office address of the plaintiff's attorney shall be indorsed thereon or, in case the plaintiff has no attorney, the name and address of the plaintiff shall be indorsed thereon. The address of the clerk's office shall appear at the bottom of the writ.
[ 2003 c 222 § 3; 1987 c 442 § 1007; 1970 ex.s. c 61 § 1. Prior: 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 5. Formerly RCW 7.33.050.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.080 - Writ directed to financial institution—Form and service.

RCW 6.27.080
Writ directed to financial institution—Form and service.
(1) A writ of garnishment directed to a bank, savings and loan association, or credit union that maintains branch offices shall identify either a particular branch of the financial institution or the financial institution as the garnishee defendant. The head office of a financial institution shall be considered a separate branch for purposes of this section. The statement required by subsection (2) of this section may be incorporated in the writ or served separately.
(2) Service shall be as required by RCW 6.27.110 (1) and (3) and shall be by certified mail, return receipt requested, directed to or by personal service, in the same manner as a summons in a civil action is served, on the manager, cashier, or assistant cashier of the financial institution, except that, if the financial institution, and not a branch, is named as garnishee defendant, service shall be either on the head office or on the place designated by the financial institution for receipt of service of process. There shall be served with the writ, as part of the service, a statement in writing signed by the plaintiff or plaintiff's attorney, stating (a) the defendant's place of residence and business, occupation, trade, or profession, or (b) the defendant's federal tax identification number, or (c) the defendant's account number, if such information is not incorporated in the writ. If the statement is not served with the writ and such information is not included in the writ, the service shall be deemed incomplete and the garnishee shall not be held liable for funds owing to the defendant or property of the defendant in the possession of or under the control of the garnishee defendant that it fails to discover.
(3) A writ naming the financial institution as the garnishee defendant shall be effective only to attach deposits of the defendant in the financial institution and compensation payable for personal services due the defendant from the financial institution. A writ naming a branch as garnishee defendant shall be effective only to attach the deposits, accounts, credits, or other personal property of the defendant (excluding compensation payable for personal services) in the possession or control of the particular branch to which the writ is directed and on which service is made.
A writ of garnishment is effective against property in the possession or control of a financial institution only if the writ of garnishment is directed to and names a branch as garnishee defendant.
[ 1988 c 231 § 23; 1987 c 442 § 1008.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.090 - Amount garnishee required to hold.

RCW 6.27.090
Amount garnishee required to hold.
(1) The writ of garnishment shall set forth in the first paragraph the amount that garnishee is required to hold, which shall be an amount determined as follows: (a)(i) If after judgment, the amount of the judgment remaining unsatisfied on the clerk of the court's execution docket, if any, plus interest to the date of garnishment, as provided in RCW 4.56.110, plus estimated interest that may accrue during the garnishment process on a per diem basis under subsection (3) of this section plus taxable costs and attorneys' fees, or (ii) if before judgment, the amount prayed for in the complaint plus estimated taxable costs of suit and attorneys' fees, together with, (b) whether before or after judgment, estimated costs of garnishment as provided in subsection (2) of this section. The court may, by order, set a higher amount to be held upon a showing of good cause by plaintiff.
(2) Costs recoverable in garnishment proceedings, to be estimated for purposes of subsection (1) of this section, include filing and ex parte fees, service and affidavit fees, postage and costs of certified mail, answer fee or fees, other fees legally chargeable to a plaintiff in the garnishment process, and a garnishment attorney fee in the amount of the greater of one hundred dollars or ten percent of (a) the amount of the judgment remaining unsatisfied or (b) the amount prayed for in the complaint. The garnishment attorney fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars.
(3) For purposes of subsection (1) of this section, the plaintiff must indicate in the writ a specific dollar amount of estimated interest that may accrue during the garnishment process per day. The amount must be based on an interest rate of twelve percent or the interest rate set forth in the judgment, whichever rate is less.
[ 2012 c 159 § 2; 2000 c 72 § 2; 1988 c 231 § 24; 1987 c 442 § 1009; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 9. Formerly RCW 7.33.090.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.095 - Garnishee's processing fees.

RCW 6.27.095
Garnishee's processing fees.
(1) The garnishee of a writ for a continuing lien on earnings may deduct a processing fee from the remainder of the obligor's earnings after withholding the required amount under the writ. The processing fee may not exceed twenty dollars for the first answer and ten dollars at the time the garnishee submits the second answer.
(2) If the writ of garnishment is not a writ for a continuing lien on earnings, the garnishee is entitled to check or money order payable to the garnishee in the amount of twenty dollars at the time the writ of garnishment is served on the garnishee as required under RCW 6.27.110(1).
[ 1998 c 227 § 2; 1997 c 296 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.110 - Service of writ generally—Forms—Requirements for person serving writ—Return.

RCW 6.27.110
Service of writ generally—Forms—Requirements for person serving writ—Return.
(1) Service of the writ of garnishment, including a writ for continuing lien on earnings, on the garnishee is invalid unless the writ is served together with: (a) An answer form as prescribed in RCW 6.27.190; and (b) a check or money order made payable to the garnishee in the amount of twenty dollars for the answer fee if the writ of garnishment is not a writ for a continuing lien on earnings.
(2) Except as provided in RCW 6.27.080 for service on a bank, savings and loan association, or credit union, the writ of garnishment shall be mailed to the garnishee by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed in the same manner as a summons in a civil action, and will be binding upon the garnishee on the day set forth on the return receipt. In the alternative, the writ shall be served by the sheriff of the county in which the garnishee lives or has its place of business or by any person qualified to serve process in the same manner as a summons in a civil action is served.
(3) If a writ of garnishment is served by a sheriff, the sheriff shall file with the clerk of the court that issued the writ a signed return showing the time, place, and manner of service and that the writ was accompanied by an answer form, and check or money order if required by this section, and noting thereon fees for making the service. If service is made by any person other than a sheriff, such person shall file an affidavit including the same information and showing qualifications to make such service. If a writ of garnishment is served by mail, the person making the mailing shall file an affidavit showing the time, place, and manner of mailing and that the writ was accompanied by an answer form, and check or money order if required by this section, and shall attach the return receipt or electronic return receipt delivery confirmation to the affidavit.
[ 2012 c 159 § 6; 1998 c 227 § 4; 1997 c 296 § 4; 1988 c 231 § 26; 1987 c 442 § 1011; 1981 c 193 § 5; 1971 ex.s. c 292 § 8; 1970 ex.s. c 61 § 11; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 13. Formerly RCW 7.33.130.]
NOTES:
Rules of court: Cf. SPR 91.04W(a), (b), and (e).
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 292: See note following RCW 26.28.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.120 - Effect of service of writ.

RCW 6.27.120
Effect of service of writ.
(1) From and after the service of a writ of garnishment, it shall not be lawful, except as provided in this chapter or as directed by the court, for the garnishee to pay any debt owing to the defendant at the time of such service, or to deliver, sell or transfer, or recognize any sale or transfer of, any personal property or effects belonging to the defendant in the garnishee's possession or under the garnishee's control at the time of such service; and any such payment, delivery, sale or transfer shall be void and of no effect as to so much of said debt, personal property or effects as may be necessary to satisfy the plaintiff's demand.
(2) This section shall have no effect as to any portion of a debt that is exempt from garnishment.
(3) The garnishee shall incur no liability for releasing funds or property in excess of the amount stated in the writ of garnishment if the garnishee continues to hold an amount equal to the amount stated in the writ of garnishment.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1012; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 14. Formerly RCW 7.33.140.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.130 - Mailing of writ and judgment or affidavit to judgment debtor—Mailing of notice and claim form if judgment debtor is an individual—Service—Return.

RCW 6.27.130
Mailing of writ and judgment or affidavit to judgment debtor—Mailing of notice and claim form if judgment debtor is an individual—Service—Return.
(1) When a writ is issued under a judgment, on or before the date of service of the writ on the garnishee, the judgment creditor shall mail or cause to be mailed to the judgment debtor, by certified mail, addressed to the last known post office address of the judgment debtor, (a) a copy of the writ and a copy of the judgment creditor's affidavit submitted in application for the writ, and (b) if the judgment debtor is an individual, the notice and claim form prescribed in RCW 6.27.140. In the alternative, on or before the day of the service of the writ on the garnishee or within two days thereafter, the stated documents shall be served on the judgment debtor in the same manner as is required for personal service of summons upon a party to an action.
(2) The requirements of this section shall not be jurisdictional, but (a) no disbursement order or judgment against the garnishee defendant shall be entered unless there is on file the return or affidavit of service or mailing required by subsection (3) of this section, and (b) if the copies of the writ and judgment or affidavit, and the notice and claim form if the defendant is an individual, are not mailed or served as herein provided, or if any irregularity appears with respect to the mailing or service, the court, in its discretion, on motion of the judgment debtor promptly made and supported by affidavit showing that the judgment debtor has suffered substantial injury from the plaintiff's failure to mail or otherwise to serve such copies, may set aside the garnishment and award to the judgment debtor an amount equal to the damages suffered because of such failure.
(3) If the service on the judgment debtor is made by a sheriff, the sheriff shall file with the clerk of the court that issued the writ a signed return showing the time, place, and manner of service and that the copy of the writ was accompanied by a copy of a judgment or affidavit, and by a notice and claim form if required by this section, and shall note thereon fees for making such service. If service is made by any person other than a sheriff, such person shall file an affidavit including the same information and showing qualifications to make such service. If service on the judgment debtor is made by mail, the person making the mailing shall file an affidavit including the same information as required for return on service and, in addition, showing the address of the mailing and attaching the return receipt or the mailing should it be returned to the sender as undeliverable.
[ 2003 c 222 § 5; 1988 c 231 § 27; 1987 c 442 § 1013; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 32. Formerly RCW 7.33.320.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.150 - Exemption of earnings—Amount.

RCW 6.27.150
Exemption of earnings—Amount.
(1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, if the garnishee is an employer owing the defendant earnings, then for each week of such earnings, an amount shall be exempt from garnishment which is the greatest of the following:
(a) Thirty-five times the federal minimum hourly wage in effect at the time the earnings are payable; or
(b) Seventy-five percent of the disposable earnings of the defendant.
(2) In the case of a garnishment based on a court order for spousal maintenance, other than a mandatory wage assignment order pursuant to chapter 26.18 RCW, or a mandatory assignment of retirement benefits pursuant to chapter 41.50 RCW, the exemption shall be fifty percent of the disposable earnings of the defendant.
(3) In the case of a garnishment based on a judgment or other order for the collection of private student loan debt, for each week of such earnings, an amount shall be exempt from garnishment which is the greater of the following:
(a) Fifty times the minimum hourly wage of the highest minimum wage law in the state at the time the earnings are payable; or
(b) Eighty-five percent of the disposable earnings of the defendant.
(4) In the case of a garnishment based on a judgment or other order for the collection of consumer debt, for each week of such earnings, an amount shall be exempt from garnishment which is the greater of the following:
(a) Thirty-five times the state minimum hourly wage; or
(b) Eighty percent of the disposable earnings of the defendant.
(5) The exemptions stated in this section shall apply whether such earnings are paid, or are to be paid, weekly, monthly, or at other intervals, and whether earnings are due the defendant for one week, a portion thereof, or for a longer period.
(6) Unless directed otherwise by the court, the garnishee shall determine and deduct exempt amounts under this section as directed in the writ of garnishment and answer, and shall pay these amounts to the defendant.
(7) No money due or earned as earnings as defined in RCW 6.27.010 shall be exempt from garnishment under the provisions of RCW 6.15.010, as now or hereafter amended.
[ 2021 c 35 § 3; 2019 c 371 § 7; 2018 c 199 § 207; 2012 c 159 § 9; 1991 c 365 § 26; 1987 c 442 § 1015; 1981 c 193 § 6; 1971 c 6 § 1; 1970 ex.s. c 61 § 3; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 28. Formerly RCW 7.33.280.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Short title—2018 c 199: See notes following RCW 67.08.100.
Severability—1991 c 365: See note following RCW 41.50.500.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.170 - Garnished employee not to be discharged—Exception.

RCW 6.27.170
Garnished employee not to be discharged—Exception.
No employer shall discharge an employee for the reason that a creditor of the employee has subjected or attempted to subject unpaid earnings of the employee to a writ of garnishment directed to the employer: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That this provision shall not apply if garnishments on three or more separate indebtednesses are served upon the employer within any period of twelve consecutive months.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1017; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 16. Formerly RCW 7.33.160.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.180 - Bond to discharge writ.

RCW 6.27.180
Bond to discharge writ.
If the defendant in the principal action causes a bond to be executed to the plaintiff with sufficient sureties, to be approved by the officer having the writ of garnishment or by the clerk of the court out of which the writ was issued, conditioned that the defendant will perform the judgment of the court, the writ of garnishment shall, upon the filing of said bond with the clerk, be immediately discharged, and all proceedings under the writ shall be vacated: PROVIDED, That the garnishee shall not be thereby deprived from recovering any costs in said proceeding, to which the garnishee would otherwise be entitled under this chapter. The bond shall be part of the record and, if judgment is against the defendant, it shall be entered against defendant and the sureties.
[ 1988 c 231 § 29; 1987 c 442 § 1018; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 17. Formerly RCW 7.33.170.]
NOTES:
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.190 - Answer of garnishee—Contents—Forms.

RCW 6.27.190
Answer of garnishee—Contents—Forms.
(1) The answer of the garnishee shall be signed by the garnishee or attorney or if the garnishee is a corporation, by an officer, attorney or duly authorized agent of the garnishee, under penalty of perjury, and the original and copies delivered, either personally or by mail, as instructed in the writ.
(2) If the writ of garnishment is for a continuing lien, the answer forms shall be as prescribed in RCW 6.27.340 and 6.27.350.
(3) If the writ is not directed to an employer for the purpose of garnishing the defendant's wages, the answer shall be substantially in the following form:
IN THE  . . . . . COURT
OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR
THE COUNTY OF  . . . . . .
. . . .
NO.  . . . . .
Plaintiff
vs.
ANSWER
. . . .
TO WRIT OF
Defendant
GARNISHMENT
. . . .
Garnishee Defendant
SECTION I. On the date the writ of garnishment was issued as indicated by the date appearing on the last page of the writ:
(A) The defendant: (check one) . . . . was, . . . . was not employed by garnishee. If not employed and you have no possession or control of any funds of defendant, indicate the last day of employment: . . . . . . .; and complete section III of this answer and mail or deliver the forms as directed in the writ;
(B) The defendant: (check one) . . . . did, . . . . did not maintain a financial account with garnishee; and
(C) The garnishee: (check one) . . . . did, . . . . did not have possession of or control over any funds, personal property, or effects of the defendant. (List all of defendant's personal property or effects in your possession or control on the last page of this answer form or attach a schedule if necessary.)
SECTION II. At the time of service of the writ of garnishment on the garnishee there was due and owing from the garnishee to the above-named defendant $ . . . . .
If there is any uncertainty about your answer, give an explanation on the last page or on an attached page.
SECTION III. An attorney may answer for the garnishee.
Under penalty of perjury, I affirm that I have examined this answer, including accompanying schedules, and to the best of my knowledge and belief it is true, correct, and complete.
. . . .
. . . .
Signature of
Date
Garnishee Defendant
. . . .
. . . .
Signature of person
Connection with
answering for
garnishee
garnishee
. . . .
. . . .
Print name of person signing
. . . .
Address of garnishee
[ 2012 c 159 § 10; 2003 c 222 § 8; 2000 c 72 § 4; 1997 c 296 § 5; 1988 c 231 § 30; 1987 c 442 § 1019; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 15. Formerly RCW 7.33.150.]
NOTES:
Rules of court: Cf. SPR 91.04W(c).
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.200 - Default judgment—Reduction upon motion of garnishee—Attorney's fees.

RCW 6.27.200
Default judgment—Reduction upon motion of garnishee—Attorney's fees.
If the garnishee fails to answer the writ within the time prescribed in the writ, after the time to answer the writ has expired and after required returns or affidavits have been filed, showing service on the garnishee and service on or mailing to the defendant, it shall be lawful for the court to render judgment by default against such garnishee, after providing a notice to the garnishee by personal service or first-class mail deposited in the mail at least ten calendar days prior to entry of the judgment, for the full amount claimed by the plaintiff against the defendant, or in case the plaintiff has a judgment against the defendant, for the full amount of the plaintiff's unpaid judgment against the defendant with all accruing interest and costs as prescribed in RCW 6.27.090: PROVIDED, That upon motion by the garnishee at any time within seven days following service on, or mailing to, the garnishee of a copy of the first writ of execution or writ of garnishment under such judgment, the judgment against the garnishee shall be reduced to the amount of any nonexempt funds or property which was actually in the possession of the garnishee at the time the writ was served, plus the cumulative amount of the nonexempt earnings subject to the lien provided for in RCW 6.27.350, or the sum of one hundred dollars, whichever is more, but in no event to exceed the full amount claimed by the plaintiff or the amount of the unpaid judgment against the principal defendant with all accruing interest and costs and attorney's fees as prescribed in RCW 6.27.090, plus the accruing interest and costs and attorneys' fees as prescribed in RCW 6.27.090 for any garnishment on the judgment against the garnishee, and in addition the plaintiff shall be entitled to a reasonable attorney's fee for the plaintiff's response to the garnishee's motion to reduce said judgment against the garnishee under this proviso and the court may allow additional attorney's fees for other actions taken because of the garnishee's failure to answer.
[ 2012 c 159 § 11; 2003 c 222 § 9; 1997 c 296 § 6; 1988 c 231 § 31; 1987 c 442 § 1020; 1970 ex.s. c 61 § 10; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 19. Formerly RCW 7.33.190.]
NOTES:
Rules of court: CR 55, JCR 55.
Severability—1988 c 231: See note following RCW 6.01.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.210 - Answer of garnishee may be controverted by plaintiff or defendant.

RCW 6.27.210
Answer of garnishee may be controverted by plaintiff or defendant.
If the garnishee files an answer, either the plaintiff or the defendant, if not satisfied with the answer of the garnishee, may controvert within twenty days after the filing of the answer, by filing an affidavit in writing signed by the controverting party or attorney or agent, stating that the affiant has good reason to believe and does believe that the answer of the garnishee is incorrect, stating in what particulars the affiant believes the same is incorrect. Copies of the affidavit shall be served on or mailed by first-class mail to the garnishee at the address indicated on the answer or, if no address is indicated, at the address to or at which the writ was mailed or served, and to the other party, at the address shown on the writ if the defendant controverts, or at the address to or at which the copy of the writ of garnishment was mailed or served on the defendant if the plaintiff controverts, unless otherwise directed in writing by the defendant or defendant's attorney.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1021; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 24. Formerly RCW 7.33.240.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.220 - Controversion—Procedure.

RCW 6.27.220
Controversion—Procedure.
If the answer of the garnishee is controverted, as provided in RCW 6.27.210, the garnishee may respond by affidavit of the garnishee, the garnishee's attorney or agent, within twenty days of the filing of the controverting affidavit, with copies served on or mailed by first-class mail to the plaintiff at the address shown on the writ and to the defendant as provided in RCW 6.27.210. Upon the expiration of the time for garnishee's response, the matter may be noted by any party for hearing before a commissioner or presiding judge for a determination whether an issue is presented that requires a trial. If a trial is required, it shall be noted as in other cases, but no pleadings shall be necessary on such issue other than the affidavit of the plaintiff, the answer of the garnishee and the reply of the plaintiff or defendant controverting such answer, unless otherwise ordered by the court.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1022; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 26. Formerly RCW 7.33.260.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.230 - Controversion—Costs and attorney's fees.

RCW 6.27.230
Controversion—Costs and attorney's fees.
Where the answer is controverted, the costs of the proceeding, including a reasonable compensation for attorney's fees, shall be awarded to the prevailing party: PROVIDED, That no costs or attorney's fees in such contest shall be taxable to the defendant in the event of a controversion by the plaintiff.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1023; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 29. Formerly RCW 7.33.290.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.240 - Discharge of garnishee.

RCW 6.27.240
Discharge of garnishee.
If it appears from the answer of the garnishee that the garnishee was not indebted to the defendant when the writ of garnishment was served, and that the garnishee did not have possession or control of any personal property or effects of the defendant, and if an affidavit controverting the answer of the garnishee is not filed within twenty days of the filing of the answer, as provided in this chapter, the garnishee shall stand discharged without further action by the court or the garnishee and shall have no further liability.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1024; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 18. Formerly RCW 7.33.180.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.260 - Execution on judgment against garnishee.

RCW 6.27.260
Execution on judgment against garnishee.
Execution may be issued on the judgment against the garnishee in the same manner as upon any other judgment. The amount made upon any such execution shall be paid by the officer executing it to the clerk of the court from which the execution was issued; and, in cases where judgment has been rendered against the defendant, the amount made on the execution shall be applied to the satisfaction of the judgment, interest and costs against the defendant. In case judgment has not been rendered against the defendant at the time execution issued against the garnishee is returned, any amount made on the execution shall be paid to the clerk of the court from which the execution issued, who shall retain the same until judgment is rendered in the action between the plaintiff and defendant. In case judgment is rendered in favor of the plaintiff, the amount made on the execution against the garnishee shall be applied to the satisfaction of such judgment and the surplus, if any, shall be paid to the defendant. In case judgment is rendered in favor of the defendant, the amount made on the execution against the garnishee shall be paid to the defendant.
[ 1987 c 442 § 1026; 1969 ex.s. c 264 § 21. Formerly RCW 7.33.210.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 6 - Enforcement of Judgments › Chapter 6.27 - Garnishment. › 6.27.265 - Form for judgment against garnishee.

RCW 6.27.265
Form for judgment against garnishee.
The judgment on garnishee's answer or tendered funds, and for costs against defendant, and the order to pay funds shall be substantially in the following form:
IN THE . . . . COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF . . . . .
. . . .
No.  . . . . .
Plaintiff
vs.
judgment and order
to pay
(Clerk's Action Required)
. . . .
Defendant
. . . .
Garnishee
Judgment Summary
Judgment Creditor
. . . .
Garnishment Judgment Debtor
. . . .
Garnishment Judgment Amount
. . . .
Costs Judgment Debtor
. . . .
Costs Judgment Amount
. . . .
Judgments to bear interest at
. . . .
%
Attorney for Judgment Creditor
. . . .
IT APPEARING THAT garnishee was indebted to defendant in the nonexempt amount of $ . . . . . .; that at the time the writ of garnishment was issued defendant was employed by or maintained a financial institution account with garnishee, or garnishee had in its possession or control funds, personal property, or effects of defendant; and that plaintiff has incurred recoverable costs and attorney fees of $. . . .; now, therefore, it is hereby
ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that plaintiff is awarded judgment against garnishee in the amount of $. . . .; that plaintiff is awarded judgment against defendant in the amount of $ . . . . . . for recoverable costs; that, if this is a superior court order, garnishee shall pay its judgment amount to plaintiff [or to plaintiff's attorney] through the registry of the court, and the clerk of the court shall note receipt thereof and forthwith disburse such payment to plaintiff [or to plaintiff's attorney]; that, if this is a district court order, garnishee shall pay its judgment amount to plaintiff directly [or to plaintiff's attorney], and if any payment is received by the clerk of the court, the clerk shall forthwith disburse such payment to plaintiff [or to plaintiff's attorney]. Garnishee is advised that the failure to pay its judgment amount may result in execution of the judgment, including garnishment.
DONE IN OPEN COURT this . . . . . . day of . . . ., 20. .
. . . .
Judge/Court Commissioner
Presented by:
. . . .
Attorney for Plaintiff
[ 2003 c 222 § 11; 2000 c 72 § 6.]