reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2101. Definition of joint and several contracts

§ 16–2101. Definition of joint and several contracts.
For the purposes of action thereon, a contract or obligation entered into by two or more persons, whether:
(1) the persons are partners or joint contractors;
(2) the contract is under seal or not;
(3) it is written or verbal; or
(4) it is expressed to be joint and several or not —
is deemed to be joint and several.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2101.
1973 Ed., § 16-2101.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2102 and § 16-2103.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2102. Death of party to the contract

§ 16–2102. Death of party to the contract.
If a person specified by section 16-2101 dies, his executors, administrators, or heirs are bound by the contract in the same manner and to the same extent as if the contract or obligation were expressed to be joint and several.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2102.
1973 Ed., § 16-2102.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2103. Extinguishment or merger of cause of action

§ 16–2103. Extinguishment or merger of cause of action.
Where, with respect to a contract specified by section 16-2101 , an action is brought against:
(1) all the parties thereto, but service of process is had on some, only, of the defendants; or
(2) some, only, of the parties thereto, and service of process is had on them only —
a judgment against the parties so served does not work an extinguishment or merger of the cause of action on which the judgment is founded as respects the parties not so served. They shall remain liable to be sued separately.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2103.
1973 Ed., § 16-2103.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2104. Death after action brought; legal representatives

§ 16–2104. Death after action brought; legal representatives.
When one of several defendants in an action dies after the commencement of the action, his legal representatives may be made parties to the action as directed by Chapter 1 of Title 12.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2104.
1973 Ed., § 16-2104.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2105. Proof of joint liability unnecessary; judgment

§ 16–2105. Proof of joint liability unnecessary; judgment.
In actions ex contractu against alleged joint debtors it is not necessary for the plaintiff to prove their joint liability as alleged in order to maintain his action. He is entitled to recover, as in actions ex delicto, against such of the defendants as are shown by the evidence to be jointly indebted to him, or against one only, if he alone is shown to be indebted to him and judgment shall be rendered as if the others had not been joined in the action.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2105.
1973 Ed., § 16-2105.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 21 - Joint Contracts › § 16–2106. Separate composition or compromise

§ 16–2106. Separate composition or compromise.
Any one of several joint debtors when their debt is overdue, may make a separate composition or compromise with their creditors, with the same effect as is provided in the case of parties by Chapter 3 of Title 41 [now chapter 3 of Title 33].
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 585, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2106.
1973 Ed., § 16-2106.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2301.01. References deemed to refer to Family Court of the Superior Court

§ 16–2301.01. References deemed to refer to Family Court of the Superior Court.
Any reference in this chapter or any other Federal or District of Columbia law, Executive order, rule, regulation, delegation of authority, or any document of or pertaining to the Family Division of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia shall be deemed to refer to the Family Court of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
(Jan. 8, 2002, 115 Stat. 2101, Pub. L. 107-114, § 2(d)(3).)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2301.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2301.02. Purpose

§ 16–2301.02. Purpose.
The purpose of this subchapter is to create a juvenile justice system capable of dealing with the problem of juvenile delinquency, a system that will treat children as children in all phases of their involvement, while protecting the needs of communities and victims alike. In furtherance of this purpose, the following goals have been established for delinquency cases in the Family Court:
(1) To provide due process through which juveniles and all other interested parties are assured fair hearings, during which applicable constitutional and other legal rights are recognized and enforced;
(2) To promote youth development and prevent delinquency through early intervention, diversion, and community-based alternatives;
(3) To preserve and strengthen families whenever possible and to remove a child from the custody of the child’s parents, guardian, or other custodian only when it is determined by the appropriate authority to be in the child’s best interests or when necessary for the safety and protection of the public;
(4) To hold a child found to be delinquent accountable for his or her actions, taking into consideration the child’s age, education, mental and physical condition, background, and all other relevant factors;
(5) To place a premium on the rehabilitation of children with the goal of creating productive citizens and to recognize that rehabilitation of children is inextricably connected to the well-being and strength of their families;
(6) To serve children in their own neighborhood and communities whenever possible;
(7) To hold the government accountable for the provision of reasonable rehabilitative services;
(8) To provide for the safety of the public; and
(9) To achieve the foregoing goals in the least restrictive settings necessary, with a preference at all times for the preservation of the family and the integration of parental, guardian, or custodial accountability and participation in treatment and counseling programs.
(Mar. 17, 2005, D.C. Law 15-261, § 102(b), 52 DCR 1188; Apr. 13, 2005, D.C. Law 15-354, § 104, 52 DCR 2638.)
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 15-354 renumbered this section from § 16-2301.01 to § 16-2301.02.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2302. Transfer of criminal matters to Family Division

§ 16–2302. Transfer of criminal matters to Family Division.
(a) If it appears to a court, during the pendency of a criminal charge and before the time when jeopardy would attach in the case of an adult, that a minor defendant was a child at the time of an alleged offense, the court shall forthwith transfer the charge against the defendant, together with all papers and documents connected therewith, to the Division. All action taken by the court prior to transfer of the case shall be deemed null and void unless the Division transfers the child for criminal prosecution under section 16-2307.
(b) If at the time of an alleged offense, a minor defendant was a child but this fact is not discovered by the court until after jeopardy has attached, the court shall proceed to verdict. If judgment has not been entered, the court shall determine on the basis of the criteria in section 16-2307(e) whether to enter judgment or to refer the case to the Division for disposition. If judgment has been entered, it shall not be set aside on the ground of the defendant’s age unless the court, after hearing, determines that (1) neither the defendant nor his counsel, prior to the entry of judgment, had reason to believe that defendant was under the age of eighteen years, and (2) the defendant would not have been transferred for criminal prosecution if his age had been known and the procedure set forth in section 16-2307 had been followed. If the judgment is set aside, the case shall be referred to the Division for disposition. The disposition and all prior proceedings in any court of any case referred to the Division for disposition pursuant to this section shall be subject to the confidentiality provisions of sections 16-2331 through 16-2336.
(c) The court making a transfer shall order the minor to be taken forthwith to the Division or to a place of detention designated for children by the Division. The Division shall then proceed as provided in this subchapter.
(d) Nothing in this section shall affect the jurisdiction of a court over a person twenty-one years of age or older.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 586, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1; July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 525, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Mar. 24, 1998, D.C. Law 12-81, § 10(v), 45 DCR 745.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2302.
1973 Ed., § 16-2302.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 2-1543, § 16-2312, and § 23-563.
Cross References
Child brought before the issuing court or officer pursuant to arrest warrant, transfer to the Family Division of the Superior Court pursuant to this section, see § 23-563.
Juvenile curfew authority, enforcement and penalties, see § 2-1543.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2303. Retention of jurisdiction

§ 16–2303. Retention of jurisdiction.
For purposes of this subchapter, jurisdiction obtained by the Division in the case of a child shall be retained by it until the child becomes twenty-one years of age, unless jurisdiction is terminated before that time. This section does not affect the jurisdiction of other divisions of the Superior Court or of other courts over offenses committed by a person after he ceases to be a child. If a minor already under the jurisdiction of the Division is convicted in the Criminal Division or another court of a crime committed after he ceases to be a child, the Family Division may, in appropriate cases, terminate its jurisdiction.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 587, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1; July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 525, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a).)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2303.
1973 Ed., § 16-2303.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-96, June 7, 2021, 68 DCR 006025).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Emergency Amendment Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-30, Mar. 17, 2021, 68 DCR 003101).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Second Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 (D.C. Act 23-405, Aug. 19, 2020, 67 DCR 10235).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 (D.C. Act 23-328, June 8, 2020, 67 DCR 7598).
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 (D.C. Act 23-326, May 27, 2020, 67 DCR 7045).
Temporary Legislation
For temporary (225 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Temporary Amendment Act of 2021 (D.C. Law 24-9, June 24, 2021, 68 DCR 004824).
For temporary (225 days) amendment of this section, see § 503(b)(1) of Coronavirus Support Temporary Amendment Act of 2020 (D.C. Law 23-130, Oct. 9, 2020, 67 DCR 8622).
Editor's Notes
Appropriations approved: Public Law 104-194, 110 Stat. 2358, the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1997, provided that funds appropriated for expenses under this section for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997, shall be available for obligations incurred under the Act in each fiscal year since inception in the fiscal year 1985.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2305.01. Findings

§ 16–2305.01. Findings.
The Council finds that:
(1) Juveniles who are not under proper supervision and control or who are arrested for certain nonviolent offenses are likely to endanger their own health, morals, and welfare and the health, morals, and welfare of others.
(2) It shall be the policy of the District of Columbia that with respect to these juveniles the District of Columbia shall be guided by the assumption that juveniles who previously have had little or no contact with the juvenile justice system and who do not represent a danger to the public safety may benefit from an alternative to adjudication that is noncriminal, reformative and protective in nature.
(3) Accordingly, the District of Columbia recognizes the appropriateness of alternatives to adjudication, which may include diversion programs and services, for certain juveniles who are in need of supervision or who are arrested for certain nonviolent offenses. The remedies and procedures provided herein shall not be in derogation of parental rights and responsibilities under existing laws.
(Apr. 9, 1997, D.C. Law 11-199, § 2(b), 43 DCR 4385; Mar. 24, 1998, D.C. Law 12-81, § 10(y), 45 DCR 745.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2305.1.
Editor's Notes
Section 28(c)(1) of D.C. Law 15-354 provided that the section designation of § 16-2305.1 of the District of Columbia Official Code is redesignated as § 16-2305.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2306. Service of summons and petition

§ 16–2306. Service of summons and petition.
(a) When a petition is filed, the Division shall set a time for initial appearance and shall direct the issuance of summonses. If delinquency or need of supervision is alleged, a summons, together with a copy of the petition, shall be served upon the child and upon his spouse (if any) and his parent, guardian, or other custodian. If neglect is alleged, the summons, together with a copy of the petition, shall be served on the parent, guardian, or other custodian of the child named in the petition. Where appropriate to the proper disposition of the case, the Division may direct service of summonses upon other persons. A summons issued pursuant to this section shall advise the parties of the right to counsel as provided in section 16-2304.
(b) Upon request of the Corporation Counsel, the Division may endorse upon the summons an order directing the parent, guardian, or other custodian of the child to appear personally at the hearing and directing the person having physical custody or control of the child to bring the child to the hearing.
(c) If it appears, from information presented to the Division, that there are grounds to take the child into custody as provided in section 16-2309, or that the child may leave or be removed from the jurisdiction of the Superior Court or will not be brought to the hearing, notwithstanding service of the summons, the Division may endorse upon the summons an order that the officer serving summons shall at once take the child into custody. If the child is taken into custody under this section, the provisions of sections 16-2309 to 16-2312 shall apply.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 588, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1; July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 527, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a).)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2306.
1973 Ed., § 16-2306.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2307, § 16-2309, § 16-2327, and § 16-4603.09.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2308. Initial appearance

§ 16–2308. Initial appearance.
The initial appearance, before a judge assigned to the Division, of a child named in a delinquency or need of supervision petition or of the parent, guardian, or custodian of a child named in a neglect petition shall be at the time set forth in the summons, which shall be not later than five days after the petition has been filed. At the initial appearance, the child and his parent, guardian, or custodian shall be advised of the contents of the petition and of the right to counsel as provided in section 16-2304 . At the initial appearance the child, or in neglect cases the parent, guardian, or custodian, may admit or deny the allegations in the petition, but it shall not be necessary at the initial appearance for the Corporation Counsel to establish probable cause to believe that the allegations in the petition are true. At the initial appearance, the judge may set the time for the fact-finding hearing or continue the matter until a later time. Failure to hold the initial appearance at the time specified shall not be grounds for dismissal of the petition. This section shall not apply in any case where, prior to or at the time of the initial appearance, a detention or shelter care hearing is required by section 16-2312 .
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 589, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1; July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 529, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a).)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2308.
1973 Ed., § 16-2308.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2310.01. Separation of young children detained prior to a hearing

§ 16–2310.01. Separation of young children detained prior to a hearing.
The Director of the Department of Human Services and the Director of Social Services shall ensure that each child at risk who is detained, however briefly, pursuant to section 16-2311(a)(2) or (b)(1) shall be physically separated at all times, except during transportation, from children or other detainees 13 years of age or older, from any child under the age of 13 who has been detained on the ground that there is probable cause to believe the child has committed a crime of violence, as defined in section 23-1331(4) , or in any other manner deemed to ensure the safety of the child. Neither the Department of Human Services nor the Director of Social Services shall deliver a child under the age of 13 to the custody of the United States Marshals Service. For the purposes of this section, “child at risk” means a child under the age of 13 or any child 13 years of age or older who, because of his or her size or physical stature, is determined to be especially physically or psychologically vulnerable to attacks by other children.
(Aug. 13, 1986, D.C. Law 6-140, § 2(c), 33 DCR 3827.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2310.1.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2311.01.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2(c) of Juvenile Speedy Trial Equity Emergency Act of 2007 (D.C. Act 17-235, December 27, 2007, 55 DCR 240).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 2(c) of Juvenile Speedy Trail Equity Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2008 (D.C. Act 17-315, March 19, 2008, 55 DCR 3408).
Temporary Legislation
For temporary (225 day) addition of section, see § 2(c) of the Juvenile Speedy Trial Equity Temporary Act of 2008 (D.C. Law 17-139, March 26, 2008, law notification 55 DCR 4470).
Editor's Notes
Section 28(c)(2) of D.C. Law 15-354 provided that the section designation of § 16-2310.1 of the District of Columbia Official Code is redesignated as § 16-2310.01.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2311.01. Rules

§ 16–2311.01. Rules.
The Mayor shall issue rules to implement the provisions of section 16-2309(b) , section 16-2310.01 , section 16-2311(b)(1) , and section 16-2311.01 within 90 days from August 13, 1986. These rules shall be submitted for a 30-day period of review by the Council of the District of Columbia, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and days that pass during Council recess.
(Aug. 13, 1986, D.C. Law 6-140, § 2(e), 33 DCR 3827.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2311.1.
Editor's Notes
Section 28(c)(3) of D.C. Law 15-354 provided that the section designation of § 16-2311.1 of the District of Columbia Official Code is redesignated as § 16-2311.01.
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of authority pursuant to Law 6-140, see Mayor’s Order 86-192, October 27, 1986.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2312a. Evaluation of family team meetings and 72-hour time period for commencement of shelter care hearing

§ 16–2312a. Evaluation of family team meetings and 72-hour time period for commencement of shelter care hearing.
At intervals no later than 6 months, 18 months, and 30 months after [April 12, 2005], the Agency shall commission an independent process and impact evaluation of the family team meetings authorized in section 16-2312(a-1) and the 72-hour period authorized in section 16-2312(a)(1) . Each evaluation shall, at a minimum, assess the following processes and outcomes of the family team meetings:
(1) Rates of participation in the meetings for different types of participants, including parents, children, and relatives;
(2) Demographic information about children and families who participated in the meetings;
(3) The percentage of meetings resulting in approved safety plans;
(4) The supports and services included in approved safety plans;
(5) The extent to which supports and services included in approved safety plans actually were provided;
(6) The percentage of meetings that resulted in the filing of a petition in the Family Court to remove a child from the home, and the percentage of meetings that resulted in a decision not to file a petition in Family Court;
(7) The placement outcomes for children who were the subject of the meetings, including:
(A) The percentage of children living with parents;
(B) The percentage of children living with relatives;
(C) The percentage of children who have been adopted;
(D) The percentage of children living in foster care; and
(E) Other applicable placements;
(8) The percentage of children who received a permanent placement and whose cases were closed;
(9) The percentage of children who were the subject of subsequent reports to the Agency’s abuse and neglect reporting line; and
(10) The effect of the 72-hour time frame for the commencement of a Family Court hearing on families’ legal protections and due-process rights.
(Apr. 12, 2005, D.C. Law 15-341, § 5(a), 52 DCR 2315.)
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2314. Consent decree

§ 16–2314. Consent decree.
(a) At any time after the filing of a delinquency or need of supervision petition and prior to adjudication at a factfinding hearing, the Division may, on motion of the Corporation Counsel or counsel for the child, suspend the proceedings and continue the child under supervision, without commitment, under terms and conditions established by rules of the Superior Court. Such a consent decree shall not be entered unless the child is represented by counsel and has been informed of the consequences of the decree; nor shall it be entered over the objection of the child or of the Corporation Counsel.
(b) A consent decree shall remain in force for six months unless the child is sooner discharged by the Director of Social Services. Upon application of the Director of Social Services or an agency supervising the child made prior to the expiration of the decree, a consent decree may, after notice and hearing, be extended for not more than six additional months by order of the Division.
(c) If prior to the expiration of the decree or discharge by the Director of Social Services, the child fails to fulfill the express conditions of the decree or a new delinquency or need of supervision petition is filed concerning the child, the original petition under which the decree was filed may, in the discretion of the Corporation Counsel following consultation with the Director of Social Services, be reinstated. The child shall thereafter be held accountable on the original petition as if the consent decree had never been entered.
(d) If a child completes the period of continuance under supervision in accordance with the consent decree or is sooner discharged by the Director of Social Services, the Division shall dismiss the original petition.
(Dec. 23, 1963, 77 Stat. 590, Pub. L. 88-241, § 1; July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 532, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a).)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2314.
1973 Ed., § 16-2314.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2318. Order of adjudication noncriminal

§ 16–2318. Order of adjudication noncriminal.
A consent decree, order of adjudication, or order of disposition in a proceeding under this subchapter is not a conviction of crime and does not impose any civil disability ordinarily resulting from a conviction, except the revocation of a motor vehicle operator’s permit or privilege in accordance with [§ 50-1403.02], nor does it operate to disqualify a child in any future civil service examination, appointment or application for public service examination, or appointment or application for public service in either the Government of the United States or of the District of Columbia.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 534, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Mar. 16, 1989, D.C. Law 7-222, § 3, 36 DCR 570.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2318.
1973 Ed., § 16-2318.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2321. Disposition of child with mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability

§ 16–2321. Disposition of child with mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability.
(a) If no previous examination has been made under section 16-2315 and the Division, after a factfinding but before a dispositional hearing, has reason to believe that a child has a mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability, it may order an examination as provided in section 16-2315.
(b) If as a result of the examination the child is found to have a mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability, the Division may, in lieu of other disposition, direct the appropriate authority to initiate commitment proceedings under Chapter 5 or 11 of Title 21. The Division may order the child detained in suitable facilities pending commitment proceedings.
(c) If the examination does not indicate that commitment proceedings should be initiated or if the proceedings do not result in commitment, the Division shall proceed to disposition pursuant to this subchapter.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 536, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 26, 2012, D.C. Law 19-169, §§ 20(c)(1), 20(c)(3), 59 DCR 5567.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2321.
1973 Ed., § 16-2321.
Effect of Amendments
The 2012 amendment by D.C. Law 19-169 rewrote the section heading, which formerly read: “Disposition of mentally ill or substantially retarded child”; substituted “has a mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability” for “is mentally ill or substantially retarded” in (a); and substituted “have a mental illness or a substantial intellectual disability” for “be mentally ill or substantially retarded” in the first sentence of (b).
Editor's Notes
Section 35 of D.C. Law 19-169 provided that no provision of the act shall impair any right or obligation existing under law.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2324. Vacation, termination of orders

§ 16–2324. Vacation, termination of orders.
(a) An order of the Division under this subchapter shall be set aside if —
(1) it was obtained by fraud or mistake sufficient to set aside an order or judgment in a civil action;
(2) the Division lacked jurisdiction; or
(3) newly discovered evidence so requires.
(b) Not less than 6 months after issuing an order pursuant to section 16-2323(h)(2), the Division may terminate an order under this subchapter on the grounds that the Youth Services Administration is not providing or cannot provide appropriate services or level of placement.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 537, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341; May 15, 1993, D.C. Law 9-272, § 104, 40 DCR 796; Mar. 17, 2005, D.C. Law 15-261, § 803, 52 DCR 1188.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2324.
1973 Ed., § 16-2324.
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 15-261, in the section heading, substituted “Vacation” for “Modification”; designated the existing language of the section as subsec. (a); and added subsec. (b).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2325. Support of committed child

§ 16–2325. Support of committed child.
Whenever legal custody of a child is vested in any agency or individual other than the child’s parent, after due notice to the parent or other persons legally obligated to care for and support the child and after hearing, the Division may, at the dispositional hearing or thereafter, order and decree that the parent or other legally obligated person shall pay, in such manner as the Division may direct, a reasonable sum that will cover in whole or in part the support and treatment of the child after the decree is entered. If the parent or other legally obligated person wilfully fails or refuses to pay such sum, the Division may proceed against him for contempt, or the order may be filed and shall have the effect of a civil judgment.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 537, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2325.
1973 Ed., § 16-2325.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2325.02. Report on failure of respondents to appear in delinquency cases

§ 16–2325.02. Report on failure of respondents to appear in delinquency cases.
The Chief Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia shall submit to the Council a semiannual report detailing the number of respondents in delinquency cases who fail to appear before any court or judicial official as required and the percentage that represents of those adjudicated. For each failure to appear, the report shall include the age of the respondent, the underlying offense with which the respondent was charged, and whether the respondent had previously failed to appear.
(Apr. 24, 2007, D.C. Law 16-306, § 206(d), 53 DCR 8610.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 206(d) of Omnibus Public Safety Emergency Amendment Act of 2006 (D.C. Act 16-445, July 19, 2006, 53 DCR 6443).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 206(d) of Omnibus Public Safety Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2006 (D.C. Act 16-490, October 18, 2006, 53 DCR 8686).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 206(d) of Omnibus Public Safety Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2007 (D.C. Act 17-10, January 16, 2007, 54 DCR 1479).
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 206(d) of Omnibus Public Safety Second Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2007 (D.C. Act 17-25, April 19, 2007, 54 DCR 4036).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2326. Court costs and expenses

§ 16–2326. Court costs and expenses.
(a) If, at the dispositional hearing or thereafter, the Division finds, after due notice and a hearing, that the parent or other person legally obligated to care for and support a child subject to proceedings under this subchapter is financially able to pay, the Division may order him or her to pay all of or part of the costs of —
(1) physical and mental examinations and treatment of the child ordered by the Division;
(2) except in neglect cases, a reasonable compensation for the services and related expenses of counsel appointed by the Division to represent the child; and
(3) in neglect cases, a reasonable compensation for the services and related expenses of counsel appointed by the Division to represent the parent or person.
(b) Payment under this section shall be made as prescribed by rules of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 537, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 409, 24 DCR 3341.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2326.
1973 Ed., § 16-2326.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2327. Probation revocation; disposition

§ 16–2327. Probation revocation; disposition.
(a) If a child on probation incident to an adjudication of delinquency or need of supervision violates any term of his probation he may be proceeded against in a probation revocation hearing.
(b) A proceeding to revoke probation shall be commenced by the filing of a revocation petition by the Corporation Counsel. The petition to revoke probation shall be in such form as may be prescribed by rule of the Superior Court and shall be served together with a summons in the manner provided in section 16-2306.
(c) Probation revocation proceedings shall be heard without a jury and shall require establishment of the facts alleged by a preponderance of the evidence. As nearly as may be appropriate, probation revocation proceedings shall conform to the procedures established by this subchapter for delinquency and need of supervision cases.
(d) If a child is found to have violated the terms of his probation, the Division may modify the terms and conditions of the probation order, extend the period of probation, or enter any other order of disposition specified in section 16-2320 for a delinquent child.
(e) A positive test for use of marijuana, or a violation of § 48-1201, shall not be considered a violation of an order of probation unless the Division expressly prohibits the use or possession of marijuana, as opposed to controlled substances generally, as a condition of probation.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 538, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341; July 17, 2014, D.C. Law 20-126, § 412, 61 DCR 3482.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2327.
1973 Ed., § 16-2327.
Effect of Amendments
The 2014 amendment by D.C. Law 20-126 added (e).
Editor's Notes
Section 501 of D.C. Law 20-126 provided that the Mayor, pursuant to subchapter I of Chapter 5 of Title 2 [§ 2-501 et seq.], may issue rules to implement the provisions of the act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2328. Interlocutory appeals

§ 16–2328. Interlocutory appeals.
(a) A child who has been ordered transferred for criminal prosecution under section 16-2307 or detained or placed in shelter care or subjected to conditions of release under section 16-2312, may, within two days of the date of entry of the Division’s order, file a notice of interlocutory appeal.
(b) The District of Columbia Court of Appeals shall (1) hear argument on an appeal under subsection (a) on or before the third day (excluding Sundays) after the filing of notice under that subsection, (2) dispense with any requirement of written briefs other than the supporting materials previously submitted to the Division, and (3) render its decision on or before the next day following argument on appeal. The court may in rendering its decision dispense with the issuance of a written opinion.
(c) In cases involving transfer for criminal prosecution, the pendency of an interlocutory appeal shall act to stay criminal proceedings. Until the time for filing an interlocutory appeal has lapsed, or if an appeal is filed until its completion, no child who has been ordered transferred for criminal prosecution shall be removed to a place of adult detention, except as provided in section 16-2313, or otherwise treated as an adult.
(d) The decision of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals shall be final.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 538, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2328.
1973 Ed., § 16-2328.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2329. Finality of judgments; appeals; transcripts

§ 16–2329. Finality of judgments; appeals; transcripts.
(a) Except as otherwise expressly provided by law, in all hearings and cases tried before the Division pursuant to this subchapter, the judgment of the Division is final.
(b) In all appeals from decisions of the Division with respect to a child alleged to be neglected, delinquent, or in need of supervision, the child shall be identified only by initials in all transcripts, briefs, and other papers filed, and all necessary steps, as prescribed by rule of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals, shall be taken to protect the identity of the child.
(c) Upon the filing of a motion and supporting affidavit stating that he is financially unable to purchase a transcript, a party who has filed notice of appeal or of interlocutory appeal shall be furnished, at no cost or at such part of cost as he is able to pay, so much of the transcript as is necessary adequately to prepare and support the appeal.
(d) An appeal does not operate to stay the order, judgment, or decree appealed from, but on application and hearing whenever the case is properly before the appellate court, that court may order otherwise if suitable provision is made for the care and custody of the child.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 538, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2329.
1973 Ed., § 16-2329.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2330. Time computation

§ 16–2330. Time computation.
(a) In all proceedings in the Division, time limitations shall be reasonably construed by the Division for the protection of the community and of the child.
(b) The following periods shall be excluded in computing the time limits established for proceedings under this subchapter:
(1) The period of delay resulting from a continuance granted, upon grounds constituting unusual circumstances, at the request or with the consent, in any case, of the child or his counsel, or, in neglect cases, also of the parent, guardian, or custodian.
(2) The period of delay resulting from other proceedings concerning the child, including but not limited to an examination or hearing on mental health or an intellectual disability and a hearing on a transfer motion.
(3) The period of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the Corporation Counsel if the continuance is granted because of the unavailability of evidence material to the case, when the Corporation Counsel has exercised due diligence to obtain such evidence and there are reasonable grounds to believe that such evidence will be available at the later date; or if the continuance is granted to allow the Corporation Counsel additional time to prepare his case and additional time is required due to the exceptional circumstances of the case.
(4) The period of delay resulting from the imposition of a consent decree.
(5) The period of delay resulting from the absence or unavailability of the child.
(6) A reasonable period of delay when the child is joined for a hearing with another child as to whom the time for a hearing has not run and there is good cause for not hearing the case separately.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 539, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341; Sept. 26, 2012, D.C. Law 19-169, § 20(c)(4), 59 DCR 5567.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2330.
1973 Ed., § 16-2330.
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2362.
Effect of Amendments
The 2012 amendment by D.C. Law 19-169 substituted “an intellectual disability” for “retardation” in (b)(2).
Cross References
Finality of termination orders, see § 16-2362.
Editor's Notes
Section 35 of D.C. Law 19-169 provided that no provision of the act shall impair any right or obligation existing under law.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2333.01. Permitted disclosures of juvenile information

§ 16–2333.01. Permitted disclosures of juvenile information.
(a) An official of the Family Court, the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services, or the Metropolitan Police Department may disclose information (but not records) about a juvenile otherwise protected from disclosure under sections 16-2331, 16-2332, and 16-2333 in accordance with this section only if:
(1) In the professional judgment of the official, disclosing the information will assist in the protection, welfare, treatment, or rehabilitation of the juvenile;
(2) A professional relationship exists between the official and the juvenile; and
(3) The general nature of the disclosure, and rationale for making the disclosure, is approved by the official’s supervisor or agency director.
(b) Information disclosed under this section may be disclosed only to:
(1) A principal, teacher, or counselor at a school that the juvenile attends or has attended; or
(2) A mental health professional as that term is defined in section 7-1201.01(11).
(c) The information that may be disclosed under this section shall be limited to:
(1) The juvenile’s name;
(2) Whether the juvenile is or has been on probation or in the custody of the Department;
(3) Whether the juvenile has violated the terms of probation or absconded while in the custody of the Department;
(4) Whether the juvenile has been arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department, or another law enforcement agency, and the charges brought against the juvenile; and
(5) The disposition of the charges brought against the juvenile.
(d) Information disclosed pursuant to this section shall be:
(1) Kept confidential and shall not be disclosed by the recipient to another individual or entity except in accordance with section 16-2331, 16-2332, or 16-2333; and
(2) Limited to the greatest extent possible consistent with its express purpose.
(e) This section permits the limited disclosure of information contained in records and files otherwise protected from disclosure under sections 16-2331, 16-2332, and 16-2333, but does not authorize disclosure of the records and files.
(Mar. 8, 2011, D.C. Law 18-284, § 3(f), 57 DCR 10477.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-2331, § 16-2332, and § 16-2333.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 23 - Family Division [Family Court] Proceedings › Subchapter I - Proceedings Regarding Delinquency, Neglect, or Need of Supervision › § 16–2334. Fingerprint records

§ 16–2334. Fingerprint records.
(a) The contents or existence of law enforcement records and files of the fingerprints of a child shall not be disclosed by the custodians thereof, except—
(1) to a law enforcement officer of the United States, the District of Columbia, or other jurisdiction for purposes of the investigation and trial of a criminal offense; or
(2) pursuant to rule or special order of the court.
(b) When a child is transferred for criminal prosecution under section 16-2307, law enforcement records and files of his fingerprints relating to any matter so transferred shall be deemed those of an adult.
(c) No person shall disclose, inspect, or use records in violation of this section.
(July 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 542, Pub. L. 91-358, title I, § 121(a); Sept. 23, 1977, D.C. Law 2-22, title IV, § 408(a), 24 DCR 3341.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-2334.
1973 Ed., § 16-2334.