The bill amends RCW 12.40.060, which outlines the requirements for notices of claim in small claims actions. The updated language specifies that the notice must include the name and address of the plaintiff, a concise statement of the claim's nature and amount, a directive for the defendant to appear personally in the small claims department at a specified time (not less than five days from the notice's service), and an advisory statement regarding the consequences of failing to appear.

A significant change in the bill is the modification of the language concerning the potential outcome if the defendant does not appear. The phrase "judgment will be given against defendant for the amount of the claim" has been changed to "judgment may be given against defendant for the amount of the claim," introducing a degree of discretion in the judgment process. This amendment aims to clarify the implications of a defendant's absence in small claims proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 12.40.060
Bill as Passed Legislature: 12.40.060
Session Law: 12.40.060