Office of Risk Management

Office of Risk Management

Presenting Cowlitz County Tort Claims to Cowlitz County, Washington

Pursuant to Chapter 4.96, RCW Cowlitz County has appointed the Clerk of the Board of the Cowlitz County Commissioners to receive and process citizen's tort claims against Cowlitz County. The County's Risk Management Committee investigates and evaluates claims and objectively determines the County's liability for claimed injuries. It fairly compensates claimants for damages when liability is supported, and denies claims when liability is unsupported. The Risk Management Committee recognizes its stewardship role in protecting County resources by striving for efficient and timely service to citizens.

Completing the Cowlitz County Tort Claim Form

The Cowlitz County Tort Claim Packet includes the Cowlitz County Tort Claim form which must be presented to the County. You can present it in person at the Commissioner's office or mail it to Cowlitz County. For claim follow-up questions or acknowledgement, call 360-577-3065.

IMPORTANT:

  • State law requires an original signature on the Cowlitz County Tort Claim form. This means Cowlitz County Tort Claim forms cannot be submitted electronically (fax or e-mail). See additional information below.
  • The Cowlitz County Tort Claim form must be signed by the Claimant; or by the attorney in fact for the Claimant holding a written power of attorney from the Claimant; or by an attorney admitted to practice in Washington State on the Claimant's behalf; or by a court-approved guardian ad litem on behalf of the Claimant.
  • The length of time required to investigate claims described in the Cowlitz County Tort Claim varies greatly depending on the complexity of the issues and the availability of documents and witnesses to support causation and damages. A Tort Claim can be resolved and closed more quickly when all relevant information and documents are provided initially for the investigator's consideration.

Present in Person or Mail the Cowlitz County Tort Claim Form and Supporting Documents to:

Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Cowlitz County
County Administration Building, Room 305
207 North 4th Avenue
Kelso, WA 98626

Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The Commissioner's Office is closed weekends and legal holidays.