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Washington raises civil‑forfeiture standard to 'clear and convincing' in new law
Summary
House Bill 1440 standardizes notice and procedures for civil asset forfeiture and raises the legal burden of proof from a preponderance of evidence to clear and convincing evidence. Supporters said the change aims to increase transparency and reduce potential due‑process abuses.
Governor Ferguson signed House Bill 1440 during a ceremonial bill‑signing event, calling the measure a comprehensive reform of Washington’s civil asset forfeiture law to enhance transparency and fairness.
"Civil asset forfeiture allows law enforcement agencies to seize property suspected of being involved in or derived from…
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