What is the violation if someone is operating without the required license?

Operating without the required license as a funeral director in Washington is classified as a gross misdemeanor. This designation indicates that the violation is more serious than a simple misdemeanor but less severe than a felony. In the context of funeral services, licensing is critical for ensuring that practitioners meet established standards of care and ethical practices.

A gross misdemeanor can typically carry harsher penalties compared to a standard misdemeanor, such as longer incarceration periods or higher fines. Therefore, the legal framework emphasizes the importance of proper licensing to maintain professional integrity and public trust in the funeral service industry. The potential consequences for operating without a valid license underline the regulatory environment intended to protect the public and uphold professional standards.