Administrative Law – NWSidebar

Washington Legislative Recap: 2021 Session Summary for Legal Professionals

On April 25, the Washington State Legislature closed its unprecedented 2021 Regular Session, capping 105 days in Olympia that for the first time was also conducted nearly entirely virtually. Despite a few technical glitches and Zoom missteps, that have become commonplace during pandemic life, the session went surprisingly smoothly and WSBA Legislative Affairs was busy throughout, monitoring hundreds of bills that are of interest to lawyers and other legal professionals.

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Public Services and Change—Insights from a Government Attorney

A government law practice is a rewarding and challenging career filled with wonderful opportunities to serve the public and our communities. Working in the government arena allows an attorney the chance to work with fellow public servants to advance the public’s interest and for the attorney to leave a lasting positive mark on the community.

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Is Your Cellphone Subject to Public Records Act Disclosure?

The Washington Supreme Court on Aug. 17, 2015, issued its ruling in Nissen v. Pierce County, which ruled that the personal cellphone of a public employee, if used to conduct public business, is now subject to disclosure under the state’s Public Records Act.

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Washington’s Marijuana Law — Sorting out the myths and facts

Learn how marijuana legalization affects DUI laws and investigations. One of the many myths surrounding the passing of Initiative 502 was that for the first time, it became illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana. Truth is, it has always been illegal to drive under the influence of any intoxicating substance, whether that is […]

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Temple of Justice Update: When a 911 Call Goes Awry

When the government negligently fulfills its duty to protect everyone, it usually is not liable to anyone in particular. The Washington Supreme Court, in Munich v. Skagit Emergency Communication Center, (No. 85984-1), dealt with a thorny exception to that rule. Case Facts The facts of the case are tragic. While fighting over their property lines, William […]