DC Bar: For the Public graphic
HomeHomeFind a MemberSite Map
graphic
graphic
 



For Lawyers
For the Public
Inside the Bar



ABA Retirement Funds Program, endorsed by the D.C. Bar 		 
Pro Se Family Law Pleadings for Individuals Without Lawyers for Use in D.C. Family Court

These legal documents have been designed by the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program’s Family Law Representation Committee to help people without lawyers in D.C. Family Court. They can be used in court cases related to divorces, child custody, paternity, child support, or standby guardianships.

These free materials are intended for people who do not have lawyers. If you have a lawyer, your lawyer will draft the legal documents you need, tailored to your own specific case.

The information in this Web site is presented by the D.C. Bar as a service to its members and the public. Although the Bar attempts to keep this information current and accurate, it makes no warranty or guarantee that it is correct, complete, or up-to-date. Read the rest of the D.C. Bar’s disclaimer.

Click to download Acrobat ReaderTo access these pleadings, you must have Adobe Reader.
To download a free copy, go to www.adobe.com.

Annulment, Divorce, and Separation

Custody Paternity and Child Support Default
If the defendant in your case never answers your initial complaint, you can file for default: Motions Request to Have Court Fees Waived Standby Guardianship Package
  • Petition for Appointment of Standby Guardian
    (by Parent or Legal Custodian)
    9 page, 197.11 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
  • Petition for Appointment of Standby Guardian
    (by Standby Guardian Designate)
    10 page, 220.35 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
  • Standby Guardian Designation Form
    4 page, 69.82 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
Service of Process
  • If you are serving papers by certified mail:
    Rule 4(c)(2) Affidavit of Return of Service
    2 page, 184.24 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
  • If you cannot serve the papers because you cannot find the defendant:
    Motion to Allow Service by Publication or Posting including Absent Defendant Locator Worksheet
    12 page, 247.97 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
  • Sample Letters to Locate Someone Who May Be in the Military
    7 page, 118.25 KB pdf file
    Click to download Acrobat Reader Download and save now.
graphic graphic  
Avis Footer Ad
The District of Columbia Bar | 1101 K Street NW, Suite 200 | Washington DC 20005 | 202-737-4700 | Directions/Parking
©2010 D.C. Bar Restrictions on Use All rights reserved. Mobile site | Privacy Policy | Accessibility Policy | Disclaimer | Author guidelines