Knife Laws in Washington: What You Need to Know About Your Rights? The knife laws in Washington State can be complex and difficult to navigate, especially for those carrying knives for work, leisure, or self-defense. To stay out of trouble with the law and avoid legal problems, you need to know what your rights are regarding knives. You can learn more about Washington’s knife laws and what you need to know from this book.
Overview of Knife Laws in Washington
Washington state law differentiates knives for the most part according to how they are manufactured as well as on use and purpose. There are few types of knives: with the switchblade and without, and in general knives seem typically to be classified by presence or absence of the feature of having a switchblade.
You can own and carry folding knives, pocket knives, and fixed-blade knives not having switchblades, but there are limits to owning switchblades and certain knife types.
It is unlawful in Washington to carry a switchblade knife with a blade more than 3 inches in length. Also, it is unlawful in the state to manufacture, sell, or distribute switchblade knives. In order to comply with these regulations, you must be aware of what type of knife you have and what its features are.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
People can openly carry knives in Washington, but regulations regarding carrying knives concealed differ from state to state. It is possible to carry a knife in a sheath or belt, but there are regulations regarding carrying a gun in your pocket.
For instance, you might find yourself in trouble with the law if you have a knife concealed in a way that appears to be a weapon. It is very important to carry your knife in a way that follows the rules and laws in your area.
Knife Rights in Public Spaces
There are various scenarios in which it is fine to carry a knife in public. Generally, it is all right to bring a knife in public; however, there are times when it is not. Most often, these times occur in sensitive places such as schools, government buildings, and public transportation. Many public places have their own policies about carrying knives. Knowing such policies can keep you from trouble with the law.
Self-Defense and Knife Use
Carrying a knife is permitted, but using a knife for self-defense raises several legal issues. “Reasonable force” is the doctrine of Washington State. It means that a knife has to be appropriate for the threat. There are some scenarios in which self-defense with a knife is legal, but it is always better to follow the law to avoid problems with the law.
Legal Consequences
Washington’s knife laws are taken so seriously that if broken, perpetrators can be charged criminally or fined or jailed. That is a lot of trouble just for having the wrong knife – a switchblade, maybe – or for using one in the wrong way. Such knowledge may help you know the prevailing laws in your location and to seek help from legal tools if you have certain questions or concerns.
Conclusion
Any person carrying a knife to work, have fun, or defend him or herself needs to know the rights of the state. There are specific types of knives that cannot be owned and carried; especially, some of these knives include the switchblade and pocket knife. If you know the knife rules and laws, then you will make sure you abide by them and know what your rights are.
If you have further questions or find yourself in a complicated legal situation due to possessing a knife, you should seek an attorney with experience.
