Washington Bar Examination (NextGen UBE) — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Washington is a community property state. Which of the following is classified as community property?

Gifts made to one spouse during marriage
Inheritance received by one spouse during marriage
Property owned by one spouse before marriage
Wages earned by either spouse during marriage (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Wages earned by either spouse during marriage

Under RCW 26.16.030, wages and earnings acquired during marriage are community property in Washington.

Question 2: Which of the following best describes how Washington applies the 'firefighter's rule' in tort law?

Firefighters can recover for all on-duty injuries regardless of how the risk arose
Professional rescuers generally cannot recover in negligence for risks inherent to their profession that necessitated their response (Correct answer)
The firefighter's rule has been abolished by Washington statute
Firefighters have a strict liability claim against property owners who negligently started fires

Correct answer: Professional rescuers generally cannot recover in negligence for risks inherent to their profession that necessitated their response

Washington's firefighter's rule bars professional rescuers from suing in negligence when the injury results from the very risk that necessitated their professional response.

Question 3: Under Washington's rape shield law (RCW 9A.44.020), evidence of a victim's prior sexual conduct:

May be admitted if the defendant testifies
Is generally inadmissible unless the court finds specific relevance after an in camera hearing (Correct answer)
Is always admissible to show consent
Is admissible in all cases where the victim is a public figure

Correct answer: Is generally inadmissible unless the court finds specific relevance after an in camera hearing

Washington's rape shield law bars admission of a victim's past sexual conduct unless the court conducts an in camera hearing and finds the evidence relevant to a specific defense.

Question 4: Under Washington property law, which type of deed provides the grantor's strongest covenants of title?

Special warranty deed
Quitclaim deed
Statutory warranty deed (Correct answer)
Bargain and sale deed

Correct answer: Statutory warranty deed

A statutory warranty deed under RCW 64.04.030 provides the broadest covenants, warranting title against all defects whether arising before or during the grantor's ownership.

Question 5: Washington's 'stand your ground' principle in self-defense law means:

A person has no duty to retreat anywhere they have a lawful right to be (Correct answer)
A person may use deadly force only in their home or vehicle
A person must retreat before using deadly force anywhere
A person has no duty to retreat when in their home (castle doctrine)

Correct answer: A person has no duty to retreat anywhere they have a lawful right to be

Washington has no duty to retreat for a person who is in a place where they have a lawful right to be and who reasonably believes deadly force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm.

Question 6: Under the WPLA, what is the statute of limitations for a product liability personal injury claim?

6 years from when the product was first sold to any consumer
3 years from when the claimant discovered or reasonably should have discovered the harm and its cause (Correct answer)
2 years from the date the product injured the plaintiff
4 years from the date the product was purchased

Correct answer: 3 years from when the claimant discovered or reasonably should have discovered the harm and its cause

RCW 7.72.060 provides a three-year discovery-based statute of limitations running from when the claimant discovered or reasonably should have discovered the harm and its cause.

Question 7: Herb is selling his home in the northwest to retire in the south. He has a large house filled with antique furniture, but he cannot take it all to his smaller home in the south. The buyer of the home wants it vacant. Herb calls his nephew Joe and tells Joe that if he moves the furniture out of his home, he can have it. Joe agrees, so he rents a truck and drives 300 miles to his uncle’s home and places the furniture into the truck. Before Joe departs, Uncle Herb decides that he wants to keep the furniture. Was a valid contract formed? I. Yes. There was a bargained for exchange. II. Yes. Herb made a valid unilateral contract offer. III. No. Herb merely stated a condition for Joe to receive a gift.

II
I only (Correct answer)
I and II
III only

Correct answer: I only

A valid unilateral contract was formed because Herb made an offer that could only be accepted by Joe's performance, not a promise. Joe's actions of renting a truck and driving 300 miles constitute the requested performance, which serves as consideration for the contract. This performance created a bargained-for exchange, making the contract enforceable once Joe began his performance, preventing Herb from revoking the offer.

Question 8: Washington's 'heat of passion' doctrine reduces which crime to which lesser offense?

Second-degree murder to manslaughter (Correct answer)
First-degree murder to second-degree murder
Assault to simple battery
First-degree murder to manslaughter

Correct answer: Second-degree murder to manslaughter

In Washington, second-degree murder may be reduced to first-degree manslaughter when the defendant acted under extreme emotional disturbance sufficient to mitigate the killing.

Question 9: Under Washington's long-arm statute (RCW 4.28.185), which of the following is NOT a basis for personal jurisdiction?

Owning real property in Washington
Having a registered agent in a neighboring state (Correct answer)
Transacting business in Washington
Committing a tortious act in Washington

Correct answer: Having a registered agent in a neighboring state

Washington's long-arm statute does not extend jurisdiction based solely on a party maintaining a registered agent in a neighboring state with no Washington contacts.

Question 10: Under Washington's UCC, the implied warranty of merchantability applies to which seller?

Only sellers who are merchants with respect to goods of that kind (Correct answer)
All sellers unless disclaimed in writing
Only retailers, not wholesalers
All sellers of goods, including casual sellers

Correct answer: Only sellers who are merchants with respect to goods of that kind

RCW 62A.2-314 provides the implied warranty of merchantability only when the seller is a 'merchant' — a person who regularly deals in goods of the kind or holds themselves out as having special knowledge of those goods.

Question 11: What is the primary ethical duty of a lawyer when they suspect that their client is involved in illegal activity?

Ignore the suspicion and continue representation
Disclose the suspicion to the opposing counsel
Withdraw from the representation if continued involvement would assist the illegal activity (Correct answer)
Report the client to law enforcement immediately

Correct answer: Withdraw from the representation if continued involvement would assist the illegal activity

A lawyer cannot counsel a client to engage in, or assist a client in, conduct the lawyer knows is criminal or fraudulent. If a lawyer suspects their client is involved in illegal activity and continued representation would involve the lawyer in that activity, the lawyer has an ethical obligation to withdraw from the representation. This prevents the lawyer from inadvertently or knowingly aiding in illegal conduct.

Question 12: Under Washington's 'Blakely' doctrine (following Blakely v. Washington), which of the following is required before a court may impose an exceptional sentence above the standard range?

A prosecutor's motion supported by victim impact statements
A presentence report recommending the exceptional sentence
A judge's finding of substantial and compelling reasons by clear and convincing evidence
A jury finding of aggravating factors beyond a reasonable doubt (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A jury finding of aggravating factors beyond a reasonable doubt

After Blakely v. Washington, aggravating factors used to justify an exceptional sentence above the standard range must be found by a jury beyond a reasonable doubt, not by a judge alone.

Question 13: Under Washington contract law, the 'mailbox rule' provides that acceptance of an offer is effective:

When the offeror opens and reads the acceptance
When the offeree signs the acceptance letter
When the offeror actually receives the acceptance
When the acceptance is properly dispatched (mailed) by the offeree (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When the acceptance is properly dispatched (mailed) by the offeree

Washington follows the mailbox rule — acceptance is effective upon proper dispatch, not upon receipt, provided the offeree uses an authorized means of communication.

Question 14: Under Washington's insanity defense (RCW 9A.12.010), the defendant must prove by a preponderance of evidence that at the time of the offense:

The defendant did not know the nature of the act
The defendant could not conform conduct to the law due to a mental disease
The defendant suffered from a mental disease and either did not know the act was wrong or could not conform conduct to the law (Correct answer)
The defendant lacked the ability to form any intent

Correct answer: The defendant suffered from a mental disease and either did not know the act was wrong or could not conform conduct to the law

Washington's insanity defense requires proof that a mental disease caused either a lack of understanding that the act was wrong or an inability to conform conduct to the law.

Question 15: Under Washington's double jeopardy analysis for multiple charges arising from a single act, which test does Washington apply?

The Blockburger 'same elements' test (Correct answer)
The 'same transaction' test exclusively
The 'same evidence' test exclusively
The 'same conduct' test from Grady v. Corbin

Correct answer: The Blockburger 'same elements' test

Washington applies the Blockburger test to determine whether two offenses are the same for double jeopardy purposes — each offense must require proof of a fact not required by the other.

Question 16: Under Washington's dissolution law, what is a 'decree of legal separation' as distinct from dissolution?

It does not end the marriage but allows separate property division and support orders (Correct answer)
It dissolves the marriage but preserves community property rights
It is only available after 5 years of separation
It automatically converts to dissolution after 1 year

Correct answer: It does not end the marriage but allows separate property division and support orders

A Washington legal separation under RCW 26.09.030 divides property and establishes support obligations but does not terminate the marital status, leaving the parties still legally married.

Question 17: Under the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct, when may a lawyer reveal confidential information relating to the representation of a client?

When required by law or court order
To prevent the client from committing a crime
All of the above (Correct answer)
To establish a claim or defense on behalf of the lawyer in a controversy between the lawyer and the client

Correct answer: All of the above

The Washington Rules of Professional Conduct outline specific exceptions to the duty of confidentiality, allowing a lawyer to reveal client information in certain circumstances. These exceptions include preventing a client from committing a crime, establishing a claim or defense in a dispute between the lawyer and client, or when disclosure is mandated by law or court order. All listed options are valid exceptions to the general rule of confidentiality.

Question 18: Under Washington's 'rescue doctrine,' a negligent defendant who endangers a primary victim is liable to a rescuer injured during the rescue because:

Rescuers assume absolutely no risk of injury when acting voluntarily to save another person
Rescuers are treated as business invitees and are therefore owed the highest duty of care
The rescue doctrine applies only to paid professional firefighters and law enforcement officers
The defendant's negligence is the proximate cause of injuries sustained by a reasonable rescuer because rescue is a foreseeable response to created peril (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The defendant's negligence is the proximate cause of injuries sustained by a reasonable rescuer because rescue is a foreseeable response to created peril

The rescue doctrine holds that a defendant whose negligence created the peril is the proximate cause of a rescuer's injuries because it is reasonably foreseeable that someone will attempt a rescue.

Question 19: Under Washington law, which of the following best describes a joint tenancy compared to a tenancy in common?

Joint tenancy requires equal shares and includes right of survivorship (Correct answer)
Tenancy in common requires equal shares but has no survivorship
Joint tenancy allows unequal shares with survivorship
Both require equal shares but only tenancy in common has survivorship

Correct answer: Joint tenancy requires equal shares and includes right of survivorship

A Washington joint tenancy requires the four unities (time, title, interest, possession) and equal shares, and carries the right of survivorship not present in a tenancy in common.

Question 20: Under Washington's Statute of Frauds (RCW 19.36.010), which of the following contracts MUST be in writing to be enforceable?

Employment contracts for any duration
Contracts that cannot be performed within one year from the date of formation (Correct answer)
Contracts for the sale of goods worth less than $500
Partnership agreements between two parties

Correct answer: Contracts that cannot be performed within one year from the date of formation

RCW 19.36.010 requires a written memorandum for contracts not performable within one year of their making, among other specified categories.

Question 21: Under Washington law, what is the statute of limitations for prosecuting a class A felony?

6 years
No limitation period (Correct answer)
10 years
20 years

Correct answer: No limitation period

Under RCW 9A.04.080, there is no statute of limitations for class A felonies in Washington — they may be prosecuted at any time.

Question 22: Under Washington defamation law, what level of fault must a private plaintiff prove when the defamatory statement concerns a matter of private concern?

Negligence as to the truth or falsity of the statement (Correct answer)
Actual malice — knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth
Specific intent to harm the plaintiff's reputation
Strict liability — no fault element is required

Correct answer: Negligence as to the truth or falsity of the statement

For private figures suing on matters of private concern, Washington follows the Gertz framework and requires the plaintiff to establish at least negligence as to the falsity of the statement.

Question 23: In Washington, a vendor selling real property under an installment land contract who accepts payments after the buyer's default may be required to:

Seek judicial foreclosure rather than forfeiture (Correct answer)
Immediately evict the buyer
Forfeit all prior payments received
Terminate the contract with 30 days' notice only

Correct answer: Seek judicial foreclosure rather than forfeiture

Washington courts may require equitable foreclosure rather than strict forfeiture when a buyer has made substantial payments and the vendor's conduct waives strict compliance with contract terms.

Question 24: Washington uses a Sentencing Reform Act (SRA) grid. What are the two axes of the standard range grid?

Prior convictions and offense type
Offense class and victim impact
Offense seriousness level and offender score (Correct answer)
Offense severity and defendant's age

Correct answer: Offense seriousness level and offender score

Washington's SRA grid at RCW 9.94A.510 uses offense seriousness level (I–XVI) on one axis and offender score (0–9+) on the other to determine the standard sentence range.

Question 25: Under Washington UCC Article 9 (secured transactions), a security interest in personal property is perfected by:

Recording with the county auditor
Execution of the security agreement alone
Filing a financing statement with the Secretary of State (or possession/control for some collateral) (Correct answer)
Delivery of the collateral to the secured party

Correct answer: Filing a financing statement with the Secretary of State (or possession/control for some collateral)

Under RCW 62A.9A-310, a security interest in most personal property is perfected by filing a UCC-1 financing statement with the Washington Secretary of State.

Question 26: Under Washington's Uniform Parentage Act, a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity signed by both parents has what legal effect?

Creates a rebuttable presumption of paternity only
Has the same force as a court judgment establishing parentage after 60 days (Correct answer)
Requires subsequent court approval to be enforceable
Establishes paternity only for birth certificate purposes

Correct answer: Has the same force as a court judgment establishing parentage after 60 days

Under RCW 26.26A.235, a signed and notarized acknowledgment of paternity becomes a legal finding equivalent to a court judgment after 60 days, with very limited grounds for rescission thereafter.

Question 27: Washington's recording act is best classified as which type?

Race-notice statute (Correct answer)
Notice statute
Pure possession statute
Race statute

Correct answer: Race-notice statute

Washington's recording act (RCW 65.08.070) is a race-notice statute, protecting subsequent purchasers for value who record first without notice of a prior conveyance.

Question 28: Under Washington law, how does implied (secondary) assumption of the risk function after the state's adoption of comparative fault?

As a complete bar to the plaintiff's recovery in all circumstances
As a factor assigned a percentage of fault that reduces but does not eliminate the plaintiff's recovery (Correct answer)
As an absolute defense that negates the defendant's duty of care
As a defense available only in cases involving intentional torts

Correct answer: As a factor assigned a percentage of fault that reduces but does not eliminate the plaintiff's recovery

Washington merged implied unreasonable assumption of risk into the comparative fault framework under RCW 4.22, so it reduces but no longer automatically bars the plaintiff's recovery.

Question 29: Under Washington's Persistent Offender Accountability Act ('three strikes'), a persistent offender convicted of a third most serious offense receives which sentence?

Double the standard range
Mandatory minimum of 25 years
Life in prison without possibility of parole (Correct answer)
Life in prison with parole eligibility after 30 years

Correct answer: Life in prison without possibility of parole

RCW 9.94A.570 mandates life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for persistent offenders convicted of a third most serious offense (three strikes law).

Question 30: When can a Washington lawyer charge a contingency fee in a civil case?

In any civil case, provided the fee agreement is in writing and signed by the client (Correct answer)
Only in personal injury cases
In criminal and family law cases
Only after obtaining court approval

Correct answer: In any civil case, provided the fee agreement is in writing and signed by the client

In Washington, contingency fees are generally permissible in civil cases. However, the Rules of Professional Conduct require that the contingency fee agreement must be in writing and signed by the client, clearly stating the method by which the fee is determined. This ensures transparency and protects the client's understanding of the fee structure.

Question 31: Which of the following best describes the concept of "piercing the corporate veil" under Washington law?

Disregarding the corporate entity to hold shareholders personally liable for corporate debts in cases of fraud or injustice (Correct answer)
Holding shareholders personally liable for corporate debts when the corporation is adequately capitalized
Applying corporate law principles to partnerships
Allowing shareholders to sue the corporation directly for corporate mismanagement

Correct answer: Disregarding the corporate entity to hold shareholders personally liable for corporate debts in cases of fraud or injustice

Piercing the corporate veil is an equitable doctrine under Washington law that allows courts to disregard the separate legal existence of a corporation and hold its shareholders personally liable for corporate debts or obligations. This extraordinary remedy is typically applied in situations where the corporate form has been abused, such as to perpetrate fraud, injustice, or to evade legal duties, and upholding the corporate entity would sanction a wrong.

Question 32: In Washington, what is the period required for adverse possession to ripen into title when the possessor does not have color of title?

10 years (Correct answer)
7 years
20 years
15 years

Correct answer: 10 years

Under RCW 7.28.050, adverse possession in Washington requires 10 years of continuous, actual, open, notorious, exclusive, and hostile possession.

Question 33: Under Washington law, which doctrine allows a court to transfer venue when the chosen venue is not convenient?

Intrastate transfer statute
Change of venue on motion for convenience
Forum non conveniens (Correct answer)
Mandatory venue transfer

Correct answer: Forum non conveniens

Washington courts apply the forum non conveniens doctrine under RCW 4.12.030 to transfer venue when the convenience of witnesses and the ends of justice would be better served in another county.

Question 34: Washington has abolished which of the following common law tort immunities?

Parental immunity for all unintentional harm caused to children
Charitable immunity from tort liability (Correct answer)
Governmental immunity for proprietary — as opposed to governmental — functions
Interspousal immunity for all tort claims between spouses

Correct answer: Charitable immunity from tort liability

Washington has abolished charitable immunity, allowing tort claims against charitable organizations for their negligent and wrongful conduct.

Question 35: In Washington, which remedy is available when a party willfully destroys evidence after litigation is reasonably anticipated?

Criminal prosecution only
Adverse inference instruction or dismissal as spoliation remedies (Correct answer)
No remedy if the destruction predates filing
Only monetary sanctions

Correct answer: Adverse inference instruction or dismissal as spoliation remedies

Washington courts may impose an adverse inference jury instruction or dismissal as spoliation sanctions when a party willfully destroys evidence after litigation is reasonably foreseeable.

Question 36: Under Washington law, which of the following is NOT a duty owed by a corporate director to the corporation?

Duty of loyalty
Duty of care
Duty of obedience (Correct answer)
Duty to avoid conflicts of interest

Correct answer: Duty of obedience

Corporate directors in Washington owe fiduciary duties of care and loyalty to the corporation. The duty of care requires directors to act with the care that an ordinarily prudent person would exercise in a like position, while the duty of loyalty requires them to act in the best interests of the corporation and avoid conflicts of interest. The duty of obedience, while relevant in some agency contexts, is not typically enumerated as a distinct primary fiduciary duty for corporate directors.

Question 37: Washington has adopted the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). Under UETA, an electronic signature:

Only applies to consumer contracts
Has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature when the parties agree to conduct business electronically (Correct answer)
Is never valid for real property transactions
Requires government certification to be enforceable

Correct answer: Has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature when the parties agree to conduct business electronically

Under RCW 19.360 (UETA), an electronic signature has the same legal force as a handwritten signature when parties agree — by conduct or expressly — to transact electronically.

Question 38: Under Washington's VUCSA (RCW 69.50), which factor most commonly elevates simple possession to possession with intent to deliver?

Location of possession near a school
Quantity of the controlled substance together with packaging and cash (Correct answer)
Defendant's prior drug convictions
Presence of drug paraphernalia only

Correct answer: Quantity of the controlled substance together with packaging and cash

Washington courts consider the quantity of drugs, combined with multiple baggies, large amounts of cash, and scales as circumstantial evidence of intent to deliver.

Question 39: Under Washington law, child support generally terminates at what age absent special circumstances?

18 years
High school graduation or 18, whichever is later (Correct answer)
16 years
21 years

Correct answer: High school graduation or 18, whichever is later

Washington child support terminates when the child reaches 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later, but not past age 19.

Question 40: In a Washington trespass to land claim, which statement regarding the required intent is correct?

The defendant must have intentionally entered the land or caused something to enter, even if they believed they had permission (Correct answer)
The plaintiff must prove the defendant acted with malice or ill will
Trespass requires the plaintiff to prove actual compensatory damages
The defendant must have intended to commit a wrongful act and known the land belonged to another

Correct answer: The defendant must have intentionally entered the land or caused something to enter, even if they believed they had permission

Trespass to land requires only the intent to enter the land (or cause an entry), not an intent to trespass wrongfully; a good-faith but mistaken belief in permission is not a defense.

Question 41: In Washington, first-degree murder under RCW 9A.32.030 requires which mental state?

Premeditated intent to cause death (Correct answer)
Knowledge
Recklessness
Negligence

Correct answer: Premeditated intent to cause death

Washington first-degree murder requires premeditated intent to cause the death of another person or the commission of specified felonies with resulting death.

Question 42: Under Washington's accomplice liability statute (RCW 9A.08.020), a person is liable as an accomplice when they:

Receive proceeds from the crime after the fact
Fail to report a crime they witnessed
Aid or abet the principal with knowledge that their conduct will promote the offense (Correct answer)
Are present at the scene of the crime

Correct answer: Aid or abet the principal with knowledge that their conduct will promote the offense

RCW 9A.08.020 makes a person liable as an accomplice when they solicit, command, encourage, or aid the principal knowing it will promote or facilitate the offense.

Question 43: Under the Washington Civil Rules, how many days does a defendant have to serve an answer after being served with a summons and complaint?

60 days
20 days
30 days (Correct answer)
45 days

Correct answer: 30 days

Under CR 12(a), a defendant in Washington must serve an answer within 20 days of service, but the Washington rules provide 30 days when service is by publication.

Question 44: Under Washington law, which of the following creates a presumption of paternity?

The man has supported the child financially
The man's name appears on the birth certificate
The man and mother were married at the time of the child's birth (Correct answer)
The man acknowledges paternity informally

Correct answer: The man and mother were married at the time of the child's birth

Under RCW 26.26A.115, a man is presumed to be a child's parent if he was married to the woman when the child was born or if the marriage ended fewer than 300 days before the birth.

Question 45: Under Washington's child support guidelines (RCW 26.19), how is the basic child support obligation calculated?

A percentage of income that increases with the number of children
Based on the combined monthly net income of both parents from standardized economic tables (Correct answer)
Solely at judicial discretion based on the child's needs
A flat percentage of the noncustodial parent's income only

Correct answer: Based on the combined monthly net income of both parents from standardized economic tables

Washington's child support schedule uses the combined monthly net income of both parents and applies economic tables (RCW 26.19.020) to determine the basic support obligation.

Question 46: Under Washington's Deed of Trust Act (RCW 61.24), what is the minimum notice period required before a non-judicial foreclosure sale?

90 days
45 days
30 days
120 days (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 120 days

RCW 61.24.040 requires at least 120 days' notice before a trustee's sale under Washington's non-judicial foreclosure process.

Question 47: In Washington, what is the effect of a deed that conveys property to 'A and B' without specifying the type of co-tenancy?

Creates a joint tenancy by default
Creates a community property interest
Creates a tenancy by the entirety
Creates a tenancy in common by default (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Creates a tenancy in common by default

Under RCW 64.28.010, Washington presumes a tenancy in common when property is conveyed to two or more persons without express language creating a joint tenancy.

Question 48: Under Washington's consumer protection law, what remedy is available to a prevailing private plaintiff under the CPA?

Treble damages up to $25,000, attorney fees, and injunctive relief (Correct answer)
Compensatory damages only
Punitive damages without cap
Statutory damages of $500 per violation

Correct answer: Treble damages up to $25,000, attorney fees, and injunctive relief

RCW 19.86.090 allows a prevailing CPA plaintiff to recover actual damages trebled up to $25,000, plus reasonable attorney fees and injunctive relief.

Question 49: In Washington, mandatory venue for an action against a county lies in which court?

The county where the cause of action arose
Any superior court in the state
The county where the plaintiff resides
The superior court of that county (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The superior court of that county

Under RCW 36.01.050, actions against a county must be brought in the superior court of that county.

Question 50: Under Washington's discovery rules, interrogatories may be served on a party without leave of court up to how many interrogatories?

25
30
50
40 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 40

Washington CR 33 permits a party to serve up to 40 interrogatories, including subparts, without leave of court.

Question 51: Under Washington law, what is the deadline for filing a notice of appeal from a superior court final judgment?

45 days
30 days (Correct answer)
60 days
20 days

Correct answer: 30 days

RAP 5.2(a) requires that a notice of appeal be filed within 30 days after entry of the final judgment or order sought to be reviewed.

Question 52: Washington follows which approach to comparative fault in tort cases?

Pure comparative fault
Pure contributory negligence
Modified comparative fault (50% bar) (Correct answer)
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)

Correct answer: Modified comparative fault (50% bar)

Washington applies pure comparative fault under RCW 4.22.005, meaning a plaintiff may recover even if 99% at fault, with damages reduced proportionally.

Question 53: Under Washington's negligence per se doctrine, for a statutory violation to establish the standard of care, the plaintiff must demonstrate:

The statutory violation creates an irrebuttable presumption of negligence requiring no further proof
The plaintiff is within the class of persons the statute was designed to protect and the harm suffered is of the type the statute was designed to prevent (Correct answer)
Only that the defendant violated the statute — causation is legally presumed from the violation
The violation is some evidence of negligence, but the plaintiff still bears the full burden of proving unreasonableness independently

Correct answer: The plaintiff is within the class of persons the statute was designed to protect and the harm suffered is of the type the statute was designed to prevent

Washington's negligence per se doctrine applies when the plaintiff falls within the protected class and suffered the type of harm the statute aimed to prevent; the violation then sets the standard of care.

Question 54: Washington's community property laws require what disposition of community property debts upon dissolution?

Community debts are divided equitably by the court, which may allocate responsibility to one spouse (Correct answer)
Community debts follow the asset they were incurred to purchase
All community debts are automatically discharged
Each spouse is always equally responsible for 50% of all community debts

Correct answer: Community debts are divided equitably by the court, which may allocate responsibility to one spouse

Under RCW 26.09.080, the court divides community debts equitably, which may include assigning debts to a particular spouse, though creditors are not bound by the divorce decree.

Question 55: Washington criminalizes harassment under RCW 9A.46.020. What mental state is required?

Recklessly placing a person in reasonable fear
Knowingly threatening to cause bodily injury (Correct answer)
Negligence as to whether the victim was placed in fear
Intent to kill the victim

Correct answer: Knowingly threatening to cause bodily injury

Washington harassment requires that the defendant knowingly threaten to cause bodily injury immediately or in the future with the intent to place the victim in reasonable fear.

Question 56: Under Washington's UCC, when parties to a contract for goods have a dispute about a term they did not negotiate, which source fills the gap?

The contract fails for indefiniteness
The prior dealings of the parties exclusively control
UCC default rules (gap fillers) supply the missing term (Correct answer)
The court invents a reasonable term

Correct answer: UCC default rules (gap fillers) supply the missing term

Washington UCC Article 2 contains gap-filling provisions — such as the implied warranty of merchantability and default price/delivery terms — that supply missing terms to preserve contracts.

Question 57: Under Washington law, which of the following is NOT a factor courts consider when awarding spousal maintenance (alimony)?

The fault of either spouse in the breakdown of the marriage (Correct answer)
The standard of living during the marriage
The duration of the marriage
The financial resources of the spouse seeking maintenance

Correct answer: The fault of either spouse in the breakdown of the marriage

Washington is a no-fault state — RCW 26.09.090 lists factors for maintenance but expressly excludes marital fault as a consideration.

Question 58: In Washington, a prenuptial agreement is enforceable under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (RCW 26.16.220) unless:

It was entered into more than 5 years before marriage
A party proves it was involuntary or unconscionable when executed without adequate disclosure (Correct answer)
Both parties did not have separate legal counsel
It modifies community property rights

Correct answer: A party proves it was involuntary or unconscionable when executed without adequate disclosure

Washington enforces prenuptial agreements unless a party shows the agreement was not voluntary or was unconscionable at execution due to lack of adequate financial disclosure.

Question 59: Under Washington's liquidated damages doctrine, a liquidated damages clause is enforceable when:

The clause was negotiated at arm's length only
The clause is included in a UCC goods contract only
The agreed amount exceeds actual damages
Actual damages were difficult to estimate at contract formation and the stipulated amount is a reasonable forecast of compensation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Actual damages were difficult to estimate at contract formation and the stipulated amount is a reasonable forecast of compensation

Washington enforces liquidated damages clauses when damages were difficult to estimate at the time of contracting and the agreed amount reasonably approximates anticipated harm — otherwise the clause is an unenforceable penalty.

Question 60: Washington recognizes the tort of outrage (intentional infliction of emotional distress) when the defendant's conduct is:

Any conduct that causes the plaintiff fear or apprehension of harm
Negligent and foreseeably causes the plaintiff severe emotional distress
Intentional or reckless, extreme and outrageous, and actually causes severe emotional distress (Correct answer)
Merely offensive or embarrassing to a reasonable person of ordinary sensibility

Correct answer: Intentional or reckless, extreme and outrageous, and actually causes severe emotional distress

Washington's tort of outrage requires conduct that is intentional or reckless, extreme and outrageous beyond what civilized society would tolerate, and that actually causes severe emotional distress.

Question 61: Under Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, what remedy is available to a tenant when a landlord fails to make essential repairs after proper notice?

The tenant may immediately withhold all rent
The tenant must sue in superior court before any remedy is available
The tenant may only seek damages after vacating
The tenant may repair and deduct up to one month's rent after proper notice (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The tenant may repair and deduct up to one month's rent after proper notice

RCW 59.18.100 allows a Washington tenant to repair defects and deduct the cost from rent, up to one month's rent, after giving the landlord at least 10 days' written notice.

Question 62: In Washington, a court may modify a final parenting plan based on a showing of:

Either parent's desire for more parenting time
The child's stated preference regardless of other factors
Any change in circumstances since the original order
A substantial change in the circumstances of the child or either parent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A substantial change in the circumstances of the child or either parent

Under RCW 26.09.260, modification of a final parenting plan requires a threshold showing of a substantial change in circumstances, protecting stability for the child.

Question 63: In Washington, what must a bystander establish to bring a claim for negligent infliction of emotional distress (NIED) after witnessing injury to a family member?

The bystander must have suffered a physical impact from the defendant's conduct
The bystander must have a pre-existing diagnosed psychiatric disorder
The bystander must have been within the zone of danger and feared for their own safety
The bystander must be a close family member who contemporaneously perceived the serious injury or death of the primary victim caused by the defendant (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The bystander must be a close family member who contemporaneously perceived the serious injury or death of the primary victim caused by the defendant

Washington permits bystander NIED recovery for close family members who contemporaneously perceive the serious injury or death of another person caused by the defendant's negligence.

Question 64: Under Washington's comparative fault statute (RCW 4.22.070), when are multiple defendants jointly and severally liable to a plaintiff?

Always, regardless of the plaintiff's comparative fault
Never — Washington applies pure several liability in all cases
When the claimant's total fault is zero, or when defendants acted in concert or in an agency relationship (Correct answer)
When any single defendant is more than 50% at fault for the plaintiff's injuries

Correct answer: When the claimant's total fault is zero, or when defendants acted in concert or in an agency relationship

Under RCW 4.22.070, defendants are jointly and severally liable when the claimant bears zero fault, or when defendants acted in concert or had an agency relationship; otherwise, liability is several only.

Question 65: Washington CR 11 sanctions may be imposed for which of the following?

Losing a motion
Missing a filing deadline
Filing a pleading for an improper purpose (Correct answer)
Failing to appear at a deposition

Correct answer: Filing a pleading for an improper purpose

CR 11 authorizes sanctions when a pleading, motion, or other paper is filed for an improper purpose such as harassment or to cause unnecessary delay.

Question 66: In Washington, what must a plaintiff prove to establish a claim for private nuisance?

A physical trespass or invasion of tangible particles onto the plaintiff's property
Intentional conduct — negligent or accidental interference cannot support a nuisance claim
Interference severe enough to affect an entire neighborhood or community
Unreasonable and substantial interference with the plaintiff's use and enjoyment of their land (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unreasonable and substantial interference with the plaintiff's use and enjoyment of their land

A private nuisance in Washington requires an unreasonable, substantial interference with a private person's use and enjoyment of land, and may arise from intentional, negligent, or abnormally dangerous conduct.

Question 67: Under Washington law, which of the following is true regarding the liability of a partner in a limited partnership?

General partners have limited liability
Limited partners are liable only to the extent of their capital contributions (Correct answer)
All partners share equal liability
Limited partners manage the business and have full liability

Correct answer: Limited partners are liable only to the extent of their capital contributions

Under Washington law, limited partners in a limited partnership enjoy limited liability, meaning their personal assets are protected from the partnership's debts and obligations. Their liability is restricted solely to the amount of capital they have contributed or agreed to contribute to the partnership. General partners, however, retain full personal liability.

Question 68: While Junior is out trapping in the Alaskan forest, his neighbor Franco trespasses onto Junior’s land and cuts down 500 of Junior’s corn stalks, which Franco’s wife will use to make corn bread for the county fair. Franco takes 250 of the stalks home and leaves the remaining stalks next to Junior’s barn. Franco plans to come back later at night to pick up the rest. Junior comes home and finds the 250 stalks and is baffled. He moves them onto his flat bed trailer and places a tarp over them. When Franco returns to Junior’s property later that night, he learns that the stalks were moved from the area where he left them next to the barn. He spends a half hour looking for them and finally finds them on Junior’s trailer. He takes off the tarp and brings the stalks home. Junior reviews his video surveillance system and observes Franco cutting down the stalks and his subsequent actions. He contacts the police, who charge Franco with larceny of 500 stalks. Franco objects to the charges. Has Franco committed larceny?

No, He has not committed larceny, only trespass.
No, He is guilty of common law conversion
Yes, He is guilty of larceny. (Correct answer)
Yes , He is guilty of larceny of 500 stalks.

Correct answer: Yes, He is guilty of larceny.

Franco committed larceny because he severed the corn stalks from the land, converting them into personal property. His act of taking and carrying away the stalks, even in two stages, with the intent to permanently deprive Junior of them, fulfills the elements of larceny. The fact that Junior moved the remaining stalks does not negate Franco's initial intent or subsequent taking, as the property still belonged to Junior.

Question 69: Under Washington law, what is the measure of damages for breach of a contract for the sale of goods under UCC Article 2 when the seller breaches?

Cover damages (cost of substitute goods minus contract price) or market price minus contract price (Correct answer)
No damages — the buyer's remedy is rescission only
Consequential damages exclusively
Only the contract price paid

Correct answer: Cover damages (cost of substitute goods minus contract price) or market price minus contract price

Under RCW 62A.2-712 and 62A.2-713, a buyer whose seller breaches may recover the cost of cover (substitute goods) minus the contract price, or market price minus contract price if cover is not obtained.

Question 70: Under Washington law, the parol evidence rule bars introduction of extrinsic evidence to:

Prove the contract was orally modified after execution
Contradict or supplement the terms of a fully integrated written agreement (Correct answer)
Explain an ambiguous term in a written contract
Show fraud in the inducement of a contract

Correct answer: Contradict or supplement the terms of a fully integrated written agreement

Washington's parol evidence rule prevents parties from using prior or contemporaneous oral agreements to contradict the terms of a fully integrated written contract.

Question 71: In Washington, how is separate property treated upon dissolution of marriage?

Separate property is awarded to the owning spouse, but the court has discretion to allocate it justly (Correct answer)
Separate property is excluded from all dissolution proceedings
Separate property automatically becomes community property upon marriage
Separate property is always divided equally between spouses

Correct answer: Separate property is awarded to the owning spouse, but the court has discretion to allocate it justly

Under RCW 26.09.080, Washington courts may distribute all property, including separate property, 'justly and equitably,' giving the court discretion to consider fairness in distribution.

Question 72: Under Washington CR 26, which of the following is automatically required to be disclosed without a formal discovery request?

Identities of all potential witnesses known to the party (Correct answer)
Expert witness reports
All documentary evidence
Insurance agreements

Correct answer: Identities of all potential witnesses known to the party

Washington CR 26(b)(1) requires initial disclosure of the identity of each individual likely to have discoverable information, without awaiting a formal request.

Question 73: In Washington, a third party (grandparent) seeking visitation rights over a parent's objection must show:

That visitation is in the child's best interest is presumed and the parent must rebut it
Clear and convincing evidence of parental unfitness
Only that a significant relationship exists between the grandparent and child
That denial of visitation would harm the child, overcoming the presumption that fit parents act in their child's best interest (Correct answer)

Correct answer: That denial of visitation would harm the child, overcoming the presumption that fit parents act in their child's best interest

Following Troxel v. Granville, Washington courts presume that fit parents' decisions regarding visitation are in the child's best interest, and third parties must overcome this presumption.

Question 74: When a Washington landlord seeks to terminate a month-to-month tenancy without cause, what notice is required?

60 days
10 days
30 days
20 days (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 20 days

Under RCW 59.18.200, as amended by recent Washington legislation, landlords must provide 20 days' written notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

Question 75: Washington's 'felony murder' doctrine under RCW 9A.32.030(1)(c) imposes murder liability when a death results from:

A misdemeanor if it was committed recklessly
Any felony committed by the defendant
One of the enumerated dangerous felonies such as robbery or rape (Correct answer)
Any crime regardless of the defendant's intent

Correct answer: One of the enumerated dangerous felonies such as robbery or rape

Washington's felony murder rule applies only when death results from the commission or attempted commission of specified inherently dangerous felonies, not from any felony.

Question 76: Washington is a no-fault divorce state. Under RCW 26.09.030, the only ground for dissolution of marriage is:

Adultery or abuse
Mutual consent of both parties
Irreconcilable differences
Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage

Washington's dissolution statute requires only that the marriage is 'irretrievably broken' — no fault or specific grounds need be proven.

Question 77: Which of the following best states Washington's 'eggshell plaintiff' (thin skull) rule?

A defendant is not liable for harm primarily caused by a pre-existing condition
A defendant takes the plaintiff as they find them and is liable for the full extent of harm even if the severity was unforeseeable (Correct answer)
A plaintiff's recovery is reduced proportionally when a pre-existing condition contributed to the injury
A defendant is liable only for foreseeable types and extents of harm

Correct answer: A defendant takes the plaintiff as they find them and is liable for the full extent of harm even if the severity was unforeseeable

Washington follows the eggshell plaintiff rule: once the defendant's negligence causes harm, the defendant is liable for the full extent of the plaintiff's injuries, even if aggravated by an unforeseeable pre-existing vulnerability.

Question 78: Under the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct, when is it permissible for a lawyer to reveal confidential client information?

When the lawyer believes it will benefit the client
When the client consents after consultation (Correct answer)
When the information is already public knowledge
When the lawyer is subpoenaed by a court

Correct answer: When the client consents after consultation

The fundamental principle of client confidentiality dictates that a lawyer must not reveal information relating to the representation of a client. The primary exception to this rule is when the client provides informed consent, meaning they understand the implications of the disclosure and agree to it. This ensures the client's trust in their lawyer and encourages full and frank communication.

Question 79: What is the standard of review applied by the Washington Court of Appeals to a superior court's grant of summary judgment?

Clearly erroneous
De novo (Correct answer)
Substantial evidence
Abuse of discretion

Correct answer: De novo

The Washington Court of Appeals reviews a grant of summary judgment de novo, applying the same standard as the trial court.

Question 80: In Washington, which court has general subject matter jurisdiction over civil cases?

Superior Court (Correct answer)
Municipal Court
Court of Appeals
District Court

Correct answer: Superior Court

Washington Superior Court has general subject matter jurisdiction over civil matters, including cases exceeding the $100,000 district court limit.

Question 81: In Washington, what is the deadline for serving a complaint after filing to avoid dismissal?

60 days
180 days
90 days (Correct answer)
120 days

Correct answer: 90 days

Under CR 4(m), a Washington plaintiff must serve the complaint within 90 days of filing or face dismissal without prejudice absent good cause.

Question 82: Under Washington's community property system, which of the following best describes the 'transmutation' of property?

Court-ordered reclassification during dissolution proceedings
Transfer of property to a trust during marriage
Converting community property to separate property or vice versa by written agreement or gift (Correct answer)
The automatic conversion of separate property to community property after 10 years of marriage

Correct answer: Converting community property to separate property or vice versa by written agreement or gift

Transmutation in Washington occurs when spouses voluntarily change the character of property from separate to community or vice versa through an express agreement or clear intent.

Question 83: A Washington landowner owes which duty to an undiscovered trespasser on their property?

A duty to refrain from willful or wanton conduct that injures the trespasser (Correct answer)
A duty of reasonable care under all the circumstances
A duty to warn of all known dangerous conditions on the property
No duty of any kind whatsoever to an undiscovered trespasser

Correct answer: A duty to refrain from willful or wanton conduct that injures the trespasser

Washington retains the traditional common law rule that landowners owe undiscovered trespassers only a duty to refrain from willful or wanton injury.

Question 84: Under Washington's condominium law, when does a developer's implied warranty of habitability apply to a new condominium unit?

For 4 years after the first conveyance or 2 years after discovery (Correct answer)
Only if expressly included in the purchase agreement
Only for common elements, not individual units
Automatically for 2 years after the unit's completion

Correct answer: For 4 years after the first conveyance or 2 years after discovery

Under RCW 64.34.445, a developer impliedly warrants that a new condominium unit is suitable for the ordinary uses of real estate for 4 years or 2 years after discovery of the defect.

Question 85: Washington's non-compete agreements are governed by the Noncompetition Covenant Act (RCW 49.62). Under this act, a noncompetition covenant is void unless the employee earns more than approximately:

$50,000 per year
$75,000 per year
There is no income threshold
$100,000 per year (adjusted annually for inflation) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $100,000 per year (adjusted annually for inflation)

Under RCW 49.62.020, Washington noncompetition covenants are void and unenforceable unless the employee's annual earnings exceed the statutory threshold (~$100,000, indexed to inflation).

Question 86: Washington has adopted the Uniform Commercial Code. Under UCC Article 2 as adopted in Washington, which type of contract does Article 2 govern?

Contracts for services only
Contracts for the sale of real property
All commercial contracts regardless of subject matter
Contracts for the sale of goods (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Contracts for the sale of goods

Washington's UCC Article 2 (RCW 62A.2) governs contracts for the sale of goods — tangible, movable items — and does not apply to service or real property contracts.

Question 87: In Washington, what is the effect of a valid lis pendens recorded against real property?

It provides constructive notice to subsequent purchasers of the pending litigation (Correct answer)
It transfers title to the plaintiff
It prevents any further transfer of the property
It creates a lien on the property equal to the claimed damages

Correct answer: It provides constructive notice to subsequent purchasers of the pending litigation

A Washington lis pendens (notice of pendency of action) under RCW 4.28.320 gives constructive notice that the property is subject to a pending court action, binding subsequent purchasers.

Question 88: Washington's Product Liability Act (WPLA, RCW 7.72) governs which categories of product liability claims?

Only manufacturing defect claims against the original manufacturer
Only personal injury claims, excluding property damage and economic loss
Claims against retailers only, not upstream manufacturers or designers
Manufacturing defects, design defects, and failure to warn claims (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Manufacturing defects, design defects, and failure to warn claims

The WPLA provides a comprehensive statutory framework covering all three classic defect categories: manufacturing defects, design defects, and inadequate warnings or instructions.

Question 89: Under Washington contract law, anticipatory repudiation occurs when:

A party assigns its obligations without consent
A party fails to perform on the due date
A party requests a modification of the contract terms
A party clearly and unequivocally indicates before performance is due that it will not perform (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A party clearly and unequivocally indicates before performance is due that it will not perform

Anticipatory repudiation in Washington occurs when a party makes a definite and unconditional statement before the performance date that it will not perform its contractual obligations.

Question 90: In Washington, which doctrine prevents a grantor from later claiming an interest in property inconsistently with a prior deed the grantor executed?

Both estoppel by deed and after-acquired title (Correct answer)
Merger doctrine
After-acquired title doctrine
Estoppel by deed

Correct answer: Both estoppel by deed and after-acquired title

Washington recognizes both estoppel by deed (binding the grantor to representations in the deed) and the after-acquired title doctrine (automatically passing title acquired after a warranty deed to the grantee).

Question 91: What is the maximum sentence for a class B felony in Washington under the SRA?

15 years
5 years
10 years (Correct answer)
20 years

Correct answer: 10 years

Under RCW 9A.20.021, a class B felony in Washington is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $20,000.

Question 92: Under RCW 9A.08.010, Washington's 'recklessness' mens rea requires the defendant to:

Know that a result is practically certain to occur
Fail to perceive a risk that a reasonable person would have perceived
Intend to cause a specific result
Be aware of and disregard a substantial and unjustifiable risk (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Be aware of and disregard a substantial and unjustifiable risk

Washington defines recklessness as consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that a result will occur or that a circumstance exists.

Question 93: Under the Washington Parenting Act (RCW 26.09.187), the primary factor in creating a parenting plan is:

The best interests of the child (Correct answer)
Equal division of parenting time between parents
The financial resources of each parent
The child's preference regardless of age

Correct answer: The best interests of the child

RCW 26.09.187 requires the court to approve a parenting plan that serves the best interests of the child, which is the paramount consideration in all custody determinations.

Question 94: Under Washington's Marketable Record Title Act, what is the period a chain of title must be unbroken to establish a marketable record title?

40 years
70 years
50 years (Correct answer)
30 years

Correct answer: 50 years

Washington's Marketable Record Title Act (RCW 65.08.060) provides that a chain of title extending back 50 years is sufficient to extinguish most prior interests not recorded within that period.

Question 95: Washington's Relocation Act (RCW 26.09.405) requires a parent with primary custody who intends to relocate with a child to provide how many days' advance notice?

90 days
60 days (Correct answer)
45 days
30 days

Correct answer: 60 days

Under RCW 26.09.440, a relocating parent must provide at least 60 days' written notice to the other parent and to the court before the intended relocation date.

Question 96: In Washington, which of the following is a required element of burglary in the first degree (RCW 9A.52.020)?

Using a weapon during entry
Entering or remaining unlawfully in a dwelling with intent to commit a crime therein (Correct answer)
Taking property worth more than $1,000
Committing the act at night

Correct answer: Entering or remaining unlawfully in a dwelling with intent to commit a crime therein

Washington first-degree burglary requires unlawful entry or remaining in a dwelling with intent to commit a crime inside, plus either being armed or assaulting a person.

Question 97: Which of the following is considered unethical under the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct?

Charging a non-refundable retainer that is reasonable in amount
Soliciting clients in-person when the solicitation involves coercion, duress, or harassment (Correct answer)
Advertising legal services on social media
Charging a contingent fee in a personal injury case

Correct answer: Soliciting clients in-person when the solicitation involves coercion, duress, or harassment

While lawyers can generally advertise and engage in some forms of direct client contact, the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct strictly prohibit in-person solicitation that involves coercion, duress, or harassment. This rule aims to protect potential clients from undue influence and pressure, ensuring that any decision to retain legal services is made freely and voluntarily.

Question 98: Under Washington premises liability law, how does an 'open and obvious' danger affect a landowner's potential liability to an invitee?

It completely bars the invitee's recovery as a matter of law
The open-and-obvious rule applies only to natural outdoor conditions, not to artificial hazards
It automatically shifts strict liability from the landowner to the invitee for voluntarily encountering the hazard
It is a factor considered in the comparative fault analysis but does not automatically negate the landowner's duty or bar the plaintiff's recovery (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It is a factor considered in the comparative fault analysis but does not automatically negate the landowner's duty or bar the plaintiff's recovery

In Washington, the open and obvious nature of a hazard is factored into the comparative fault analysis and may reduce the plaintiff's recovery, but it does not automatically negate the landowner's duty of care or bar recovery.

Question 99: Under Washington's Consumer Protection Act (RCW 19.86), a private plaintiff seeking damages must prove which elements?

Unfair or deceptive act in trade/commerce, public interest impact, and injury to plaintiff's business or property (Correct answer)
Breach of warranty, reliance, and consequential damages
Misrepresentation, causation, and bodily injury
Fraud, intent, and actual damages only

Correct answer: Unfair or deceptive act in trade/commerce, public interest impact, and injury to plaintiff's business or property

A Washington CPA private claim requires an unfair or deceptive act in trade or commerce, affecting the public interest, that caused injury to the plaintiff's business or property.

Question 100: What is the general statute of limitations for personal injury tort claims in Washington state?

4 years from the date of injury
2 years from the date of injury
3 years from the date of injury (Correct answer)
1 year from the date of injury

Correct answer: 3 years from the date of injury

RCW 4.16.080 establishes a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury actions in Washington.

Question 101: Washington recognizes strict liability for which of the following?

Owning a domestic dog that bites someone for the very first time
Manufacturing any consumer product sold in interstate commerce
Engaging in abnormally dangerous activities (Correct answer)
Operating a business open to members of the general public

Correct answer: Engaging in abnormally dangerous activities

Washington applies strict liability under the Restatement approach for abnormally dangerous activities that pose serious risks not capable of being eliminated through the exercise of reasonable care.

Question 102: Under Washington common law, which doctrine allows a court to excuse non-performance when an unforeseeable event makes performance impossible?

Material breach
Anticipatory repudiation
Impracticability/impossibility of performance (Correct answer)
Frustration of purpose

Correct answer: Impracticability/impossibility of performance

Washington recognizes the impossibility/impracticability doctrine, excusing performance when an unforeseen supervening event destroys the basis of the contract and performance becomes objectively impossible or commercially impracticable.

Question 103: Under Washington law, at what age does a child's preference regarding custody become a significant factor courts consider?

Age 14
Age 16
Any age if the child can articulate a preference
Age 12 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Age 12

While there is no specific statutory age, Washington courts give increasing weight to a child's preference by age 12, when the child is deemed mature enough to express a reasoned preference.

Question 104: Under what circumstances can a Washington lawyer enter into a business transaction with a client?

When the lawyer has previously entered into a business transaction with another client
When the client initiates the transaction
When the transaction is fair and reasonable, the client is fully informed, and the client gives informed consent in writing (Correct answer)
When the transaction is for the lawyer's benefit

Correct answer: When the transaction is fair and reasonable, the client is fully informed, and the client gives informed consent in writing

Entering into a business transaction with a client presents a significant risk of conflict of interest due to the lawyer's influence and superior knowledge. To protect the client, such transactions are only permissible if the terms are fair and reasonable to the client, the client is fully informed of the terms and the desirability of seeking independent legal counsel, and the client gives informed consent in writing. These safeguards ensure the client's interests are paramount.

Question 105: Under Washington CR 56, a motion for summary judgment must be filed at least how many days before the hearing?

20 days
28 days (Correct answer)
14 days
10 days

Correct answer: 28 days

Washington CR 56 requires that a motion for summary judgment be served and filed at least 28 days before the hearing date.

Question 106: Under Washington's robbery statute (RCW 9A.56.190), what distinguishes robbery from theft?

Robbery requires taking property worth more than $750
Robbery requires use of a weapon
Robbery requires the use or threatened use of force or fear (Correct answer)
Robbery requires two or more perpetrators

Correct answer: Robbery requires the use or threatened use of force or fear

Washington robbery requires that property be taken from a person by force or fear, distinguishing it from simple theft which does not involve confrontation.

Question 107: In Washington, the doctrine of promissory estoppel allows enforcement of a promise without consideration when:

The promisor should have reasonably expected the promise to induce action, the promisee detrimentally relied, and injustice can only be avoided by enforcement (Correct answer)
The promise was made in writing
Both parties are merchants under the UCC
The promisee paid a nominal consideration

Correct answer: The promisor should have reasonably expected the promise to induce action, the promisee detrimentally relied, and injustice can only be avoided by enforcement

Washington courts apply promissory estoppel under Restatement §90 — a promise is enforceable without consideration when there is foreseeable and actual detrimental reliance and enforcement is necessary to avoid injustice.

Question 108: Under Washington law, which of the following best describes the 'economic waste' doctrine in landlord-tenant law?

Courts will not enforce lease provisions requiring forfeiture for minor breaches
Tenants must not commit voluntary waste on the leased premises
Landlords may not demolish leasehold improvements without consent
Landlords must mitigate damages after a tenant abandons the premises (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Landlords must mitigate damages after a tenant abandons the premises

Washington requires landlords to take reasonable steps to re-let abandoned premises and mitigate damages rather than allowing rent to accrue indefinitely.

Question 109: Boris is walking on a County street. His doctor had recommended that he stay in bed. He turns ill and stumbles along the sidewalk. He comes to a sidewalk vault that is flush with the sidewalk, but not in a hazardous condition. Boris misses a step and trips over the vault. He falls to the ground and breaks his left ankle and hip. He sues the owner of the vault for negligently maintaining it. A settlement offer is made to Boris by the vault owner’s insurance company, but Boris rejects it and wants more. At trial, the vault owner’s defense is that Boris was negligent and the sole proximate cause of his injuries. The vault owner calls a man who saw the accident to the stand. The vault owner’s attorney wants to question the witness about what he observed. The attorney asks the witness to describe how Boris looked. The witness states that Boris looked old, ill and looked like he suffered from AIDS. Boris’ attorney objects. Will the Court overrule the objection and allow the witness’ answer to stand?

Yes. since the witness can testify to a personal observation.
No, The objection will be sustained.
The court will partially overrule the objection, and only allow the testimony pertaining Boris age and that he appeared ill. (Correct answer)
Yes, The testimony is based upon the witness perception.

Correct answer: The court will partially overrule the objection, and only allow the testimony pertaining Boris age and that he appeared ill.

A lay witness can testify to observations that are rationally based on their perception and helpful to understanding their testimony, such as a person's age or apparent illness. However, a lay witness cannot offer an opinion that requires specialized medical knowledge, like diagnosing a specific disease such as AIDS. Therefore, the court will allow testimony about Boris looking old and ill, but not the speculative diagnosis of AIDS.

Question 110: In Washington, which standard governs a motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim under CR 12(b)(6)?

The defendant must show the claim is frivolous
The plaintiff must prove a prima facie case
The complaint must contain facts sufficient to state a claim plausible on its face (Correct answer)
The complaint must show the plaintiff is entitled to relief beyond a reasonable doubt

Correct answer: The complaint must contain facts sufficient to state a claim plausible on its face

Washington courts apply a notice pleading standard requiring factual allegations sufficient to make a claim plausible on its face, consistent with Iqbal/Twombly principles.

Question 111: When a Washington superior court awards attorney fees, what is the primary statutory basis for fee-shifting in contract disputes?

The contract's own fee provision
Common law bad faith doctrine
RCW 4.84.010 (prevailing party statute) (Correct answer)
Washington Consumer Protection Act

Correct answer: RCW 4.84.010 (prevailing party statute)

RCW 4.84.010 is Washington's prevailing party statute authorizing cost awards, and RCW 4.84.330 allows attorney fees in contract actions when the contract provides for fees to any party.

Question 112: Which of the following actions would most likely constitute a conflict of interest under the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct?

Representing a client in a pro bono case
Representing a client in a matter where the lawyer has a personal financial interest (Correct answer)
Representing two clients in unrelated matters
Offering free legal advice at a public seminar

Correct answer: Representing a client in a matter where the lawyer has a personal financial interest

A conflict of interest arises when a lawyer's personal interests materially limit their ability to represent a client impartially and effectively. Having a personal financial interest in the outcome or subject matter of a client's case creates a significant risk that the lawyer's judgment will be swayed by their own benefit rather than solely the client's best interests. This situation requires strict adherence to ethical rules, often including informed client consent or declining the representation.

Question 113: Under Washington law, the doctrine of res ipsa loquitur permits a plaintiff to:

Establish a permissible inference of negligence without direct proof of the specific negligent act (Correct answer)
Recover without proving causation whenever the defendant had exclusive control
Shift the entire burden of proof to the defendant to disprove negligence
Automatically obtain a directed verdict without presenting any evidence of negligence

Correct answer: Establish a permissible inference of negligence without direct proof of the specific negligent act

Res ipsa loquitur in Washington creates a permissible inference of negligence when the injury is the kind that ordinarily does not occur without negligence and the instrumentality was in the defendant's exclusive control.

Question 114: Under Washington's doctrine of implied dedication, a private landowner may lose the right to exclude the public if:

The owner verbally grants permission for 10 years
The land has been open to the public for 7 years
The county records a plat showing the land as public
The owner manifests intent to dedicate and the public accepts through use (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The owner manifests intent to dedicate and the public accepts through use

An implied dedication in Washington requires clear evidence that the owner intended to offer the land for public use and that the public accepted the dedication through actual use.

Question 115: What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Washington, and does a statute of repose apply?

4 years from discovery of the injury, with a 10-year statute of repose
2 years from the negligent act or 1 year from discovery, with a 6-year statute of repose
3 years from the negligent act or 1 year from discovery (whichever expires later), with an 8-year statute of repose (Correct answer)
1 year from discovery of the injury, with no statute of repose

Correct answer: 3 years from the negligent act or 1 year from discovery (whichever expires later), with an 8-year statute of repose

RCW 4.16.350 provides three years from the act or one year from discovery, whichever expires later, but no action may be brought more than eight years after the negligent act or omission.

Question 116: What is the primary duty of a lawyer who discovers that their client intends to commit perjury?

Notify the opposing counsel
Disclose the client’s intent to the court
Withdraw from the case
Advise the client to testify truthfully and refuse to assist in the perjury (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Advise the client to testify truthfully and refuse to assist in the perjury

A lawyer has a paramount duty of candor toward the tribunal and cannot knowingly offer false evidence. If a client intends to commit perjury, the lawyer's ethical obligation is to first attempt to persuade the client to testify truthfully. If the client insists on committing perjury, the lawyer must refuse to assist in the perjury, which may involve refusing to call the client as a witness or withdrawing from the representation.

Question 117: Washington's Domestic Violence Prevention Act (RCW 26.50) authorizes courts to issue a protection order with an ex parte temporary restraining order based on:

Proof beyond a reasonable doubt of domestic violence
A petitioner's sworn statement showing reasonable grounds to believe domestic violence occurred (Correct answer)
A preponderance of evidence that domestic violence has occurred
The agreement of both parties

Correct answer: A petitioner's sworn statement showing reasonable grounds to believe domestic violence occurred

A Washington ex parte temporary protection order may be issued based on the petitioner's sworn declaration showing reasonable grounds to believe domestic violence occurred, without the respondent's presence.

Question 118: What is required for the formation of a limited liability company (LLC) in Washington?

The issuance of shares to members
A formal partnership agreement
A minimum of two members
Filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State

The formation of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Washington, like in most states, is a statutory process that requires filing specific documents with the state. The primary document required for legal formation is the Articles of Organization, which must be filed with the Washington Secretary of State. This formal filing establishes the LLC as a distinct legal entity.

Question 119: Under Washington's UCC, the 'battle of the forms' rule under UCC § 2-207 (RCW 62A.2-207) provides that when parties exchange forms with differing terms:

A contract forms on the offeror's terms and additional terms in the acceptance are proposals to modify (Correct answer)
No contract forms until the parties exchange identical forms
The last form sent controls (last shot rule)
The offeror's terms always control

Correct answer: A contract forms on the offeror's terms and additional terms in the acceptance are proposals to modify

UCC § 2-207 provides that a definite expression of acceptance forms a contract even if it contains additional or different terms, with additional terms treated as proposals for modification between merchants.

Question 120: Which of the following scenarios would most likely lead to a violation of the duty of competence under the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct?

Conducting thorough research before taking on a new type of case
Taking on a new case in an area of law in which the lawyer has no experience, without adequate preparation (Correct answer)
Referring a case to another lawyer with more expertise
Consulting with a mentor to gain knowledge in a new area of law

Correct answer: Taking on a new case in an area of law in which the lawyer has no experience, without adequate preparation

The duty of competence requires a lawyer to possess the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation. Taking on a new case in an unfamiliar area of law without adequate preparation or associating with a competent lawyer directly violates this duty, as it risks providing substandard representation to the client. Referring the case, consulting a mentor, or conducting thorough research are all ways to uphold the duty of competence.

Washington Bar Examination (NextGen UBE)

The Washington Bar Examination is a NextGen Uniform Bar Examination administered over 1.5 days, testing applicants on eight foundational legal subjects, professional conduct, and lawyering skills through multiple-choice questions, integrated question sets, and performance tasks. A scaled score of 610 out of 750 is required for admission to the Washington State Bar.

120

Questions

216 min

Time Limit

65%

To Pass

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