If it should appear upon the whole examination that no offense has been committed, or that there is not probable cause for charging the defendant with an offense, he or she shall be discharged, and if in the opinion of the magistrate, the complaint was malicious, or without probable cause, and there was no reasonable ground therefor, the costs shall be taxed against the party making the complaint.
[ 2010 c 8 § 1009; Code 1881 § 1925; 1873 p 395 § 223; 1854 p 107 § 31; RRS § 1954.]

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Terms Used In Washington Code 10.16.080

  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Probable cause: A reasonable ground for belief that the offender violated a specific law.