The bill amends RCW 12.40.060, which outlines the requirements for notices in small claims actions. The updated language specifies that the notice of claim directed to the defendant must include the plaintiff's name and address, a brief 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 the defendant" has been replaced with "judgment may be given against the defendant for the amount of the claim," introducing a degree of discretion in the judgment process. This alteration aims to clarify the implications of a defendant's absence in small claims proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 12.40.060