Answer in justification and mitigation.

RCW 4.36.130
in effect
Sign in to generate a plain English summaryAsk Belisarius Agent
In an action mentioned in RCW 4.36.120 , the defendant may, in his or her answer, allege both the truth of the matter charged as defamatory, and any mitigating circumstances to reduce the amount of damages; and whether he or she proves the justification or not, he or she may give in evidence the mitigating circumstances. In an action mentioned in RCW 4.36.120 , the defendant may, in his or her answer, allege both the truth of the matter charged as defamatory, and any mitigating circumstances to reduce the amount of damages; and whether he or she proves the justification or not, he or she may give in evidence the mitigating circumstances.
Source: WA Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.36&full=trueFetched: 6/28/2026

Starting a business in Washington? Washington LLC guide: costs and requirements