2.95.060 Claims handling procedures.

(A)    Service and Filing. In accordance with state law, claims must be filed with the general services department utilizing the county supplied tort claim form. Service of any summons and complaint must be with the county auditor.

(B)    Transmittal. General services’ staff will transmit copies of the claim to the risk manager, prosecutor, and county manager within three (3) days of receipt. The auditor shall immediately forward copies of all summons and complaints to the prosecuting attorney’s office, the risk management office, and the clerk of the board.

(C)    Service on Office or Employee. Any county official or employee other than the auditor or deputy auditor who is served with a summons and/or complaint in a lawsuit against the county or any officer or employee of the county acting in their official capacity shall immediately deliver such process to the prosecuting attorney, who will transmit a copy to the risk manager and county manager.

(D)    Independent Adjuster. The risk manager may use the service of an independent adjuster for the investigation and settlement of claims whenever it is deemed to be in the best interest of the county to do so. The independent adjuster will be licensed in the state of Washington, and will carry professional liability coverage in an amount set by the risk manager. (Sec. 4 of Ord. 1987-07-27; amended by Sec. 1 of Ord. 2015-07-05)