Superior Court Seeks Comment on Amendments to Domestic Relations and Juvenile Rules

October 13, 2022

The D.C. Superior Court is seeking comment on proposed amendments to Rules 4 and 43 of the Superior Court Rules Governing Domestic Relations Proceedings as well as to Rules 9 and 43 of the Rules Governing Juvenile Proceedings.

In Domestic Relations Rule 4, revised subsection (c)(2) provides greater flexibility for plaintiffs and petitioners to accomplish service. In Rule 43, amended subsection (b) facilitates remote testimony by eliminating the requirement that a party seeking to present live testimony from a remote location establish “compelling circumstances.”

Juvenile Proceedings Rule 9 has been amended to authorize alternative methods of service if, upon motion, the court makes the appropriate determination. Amended Rule 43 expands the Superior Court’s authority to permit a respondent to appear by video or telephone conferencing.

The court’s Rules Committee will recommend approval of the amendments by the Superior Court Board of Judges unless, after consideration of comments from the bar and the public, they are modified or withdrawn.
Submit written comments by November 2, 2022, by email to [email protected] or by mail to:

Pedro E. Briones
Associate General Counsel
District of Columbia Courts
500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Room 6715
Washington, DC 20001