If you’re an out-of-state bail bond agent planning to recover a fugitive in Washington State, you must comply with RCW 18.185.290. This law outlines strict licensing and supervision requirements to protect the public and uphold due process.
Failing to follow these legal steps can result in criminal charges, civil liability, or revocation of your license.
RCW 18.185.290: What Out-of-State Bail Agents Must Know
Washington law prohibits unlicensed bail recovery activity. Under RCW 18.185.290, out-of-state bail bond agents may not independently operate in Washington unless they:
- Are licensed in their home state
- Partner with a licensed Washington bail bond recovery agent
- Work under direct supervision of the in-state agent during recovery operations
👉 Read RCW 18.185.290 on the Legislature’s Website
Why Direct Supervision Is Required
The purpose of this regulation is to:
- Prevent unauthorized enforcement actions
- Protect the rights of Washington residents
- Ensure accountability for recovery operations within state borders
- Allow law enforcement to track and monitor recovery activity
Out-of-state bail bond agents working alone in Washington are not authorized, regardless of their credentials in other states.
Penalties for Noncompliance
Violating RCW 18.185.290 can result in:
- Criminal charges for unlawful entry or impersonation
- Loss of licensure in both Washington and the agent’s home state
- Civil lawsuits from wrongfully targeted individuals
- Bans from future recovery operations in Washington State
Best Practices for Out-of-State Agents Working in Washington
To legally recover a fugitive in Washington:
- Confirm your licensing status in your home state.
- Partner with a licensed Washington recovery agent.
- Ensure all recovery activity is supervised in real-time.
- Notify local law enforcement before conducting a planned forced entry (see RCW 18.185.300).
- Keep detailed records of compliance.
Call Blanford Law for Bail Enforcement Legal Advice in Washington
Whether you’re a recovery agent visiting from another state or managing bail bond operations across state lines, Blanford Law can help you navigate Washington’s legal system.
We advise agents and companies on:
- Licensing requirements
- Supervised operations
- Risk mitigation
- Defense if enforcement actions are challenged in court
📞 Contact Blanford Law for a consultation about operating within Washington bail enforcement laws.
👉 Explore Our Legal Services for Recovery Agents
📞 Contact Blanford Law Today:
🔗 Visit Our Website – www.blanfordlaw.com
📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
📱 Call: 253-720-9304
