Brief Description: Concerning fees for petitioners of sexual assault protection orders.

Sponsors: By Representatives Eddy, Williams, Lantz, Seaquist, Appleton, Darneille, Rolfes, Lovick, Moeller and Ericks.

House Committee on Judiciary
Senate Committee on Judiciary

Background:

In 2006 the Legislature established a new civil protection order called the sexual assault protection order. Any person who is a victim of nonconsensual sexual conduct or penetration that gives rise to a reasonable fear of future dangerous acts may file a petition for a sexual assault protection order.

Once the court receives the petition, it must order a hearing to be held within 14 days of issuing its order. The respondent must be personally served by the local sheriff or law enforcement agency or, if the petitioner prefers, by a private party.

No filing fees may be charged for sexual assault protection order proceedings. The necessary number of certified copies must be provided free of charge. The statues do not address the sheriff or law enforcement agency charging the petitioner a fee for service of process.

Summary:

A public agency may not charge filing fees or service of process fees to petitioners seeking relief under a sexual assault protection order. Petitioners must be provided the necessary number of certified copies at no cost.

Votes on Final Passage:

House   96   0
Senate   46   0

Effective: July 22, 2007