# RCW 5.40.020: RCW 5.40.020: Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence

> Washington · Statutes · In force

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S020

## Section

- **Citation:** RCW 5.40.020
- **Heading:** RCW 5.40.020: Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence
- **Jurisdiction:** Washington
- **Kind:** Statutes
- **Status:** In force
- **Text as of:** August 14, 2026
- **Source:** Compiled text
- **Location:** Washington Code / Title 5 / Chapter 40 / Section 020

## Text

A written finding of presumed death, made by the secretary of war, the secretary of the navy, or other officer or employee of the United States authorized to make such finding, pursuant to the federal missing persons act (56 Stat. 143, 1092, and P.L. 408, Ch. 371, 2d Sess. 78th Cong.; U.S.C. App. Supp. 1001-17), as now or hereafter amended, or a duly certified copy of such finding, shall be received in any court, office, or other place in this state as prima facie evidence of the death of the person therein found to be dead, and the date, circumstances, and place of his or her disappearance.

## Nearby sections

- [RCW 5.40.010 RCW 5.40.010: Pleadings do not constitute proof.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S010.md)
- [RCW 5.40.020 RCW 5.40.020: Written finding of presumed death as prima facie evidence.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S020.md)
- [RCW 5.40.030 RCW 5.40.030: Proof of missing in action, capture by enemy, etc.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S030.md)
- [RCW 5.40.040 RCW 5.40.040: Proof of authenticity of signature to report or of certification.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S040.md)
- [RCW 5.40.050 RCW 5.40.050: Breach of duty—Evidence of negligence—Negligence per se.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S050.md)
- [RCW 5.40.060 RCW 5.40.060: Defense to personal injury or wrongful death action—Intoxicating liquor or any drug.](https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S060.md)

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_WA_T5_C40_S020. Check the current official text before relying on it. Not legal advice.