reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 44 - Arbitration; Revised Uniform Act › § 16–4431. Disclosure of arbitration costs

§ 16–4431. Disclosure of arbitration costs.
(a) A party drafting a consumer arbitration agreement shall clearly and conspicuously disclose in regard to any arbitration:
(1) The filing fee;
(2) The average daily cost for an arbitrator and hearing room if the consumer elects to appear in person;
(3) Other charges that the arbitrator or arbitration organization will assess in conjunction with an arbitration where the consumer appears in person; and
(4) The proportion of these costs which each party bears in the event that the consumer prevails, and in the event that the consumer does not prevail.
(b) The costs specified in subsection (a) of this section need not include attorney fees, and, to the extent that, with regard to the disclosures required by subsection (a) of this section, a precise amount is not known, the disclosures may be based on reasonable, good-faith estimates. A party providing a reasonable, good-faith cost estimate shall not be liable in any manner for the fact that the actual cost of a particular arbitration varies from the estimate provided.
(c)(1) Failure to comply with this section is not grounds to refuse to enforce an arbitration agreement, but may constitute a violation of § 28-3904.
(2) The information provided in the disclosure can be considered in a determination of whether an arbitration agreement is unconscionable or otherwise is not enforceable under other law.
(d) Where this section is violated, any person or entity, including the Attorney General of the District of Columbia, can request a court to enjoin the drafting party from violating this section as to agreements it enters into in the future. The drafting party shall be liable to the person or entity bringing such an action for that person or entity’s reasonable attorney fees and costs where the court issues an injunction or where, after the action is commenced, the drafting party voluntarily complies with the section.
(Feb. 27, 2008, D.C. Law 17-111, § 2(b), 55 DCR 1847.)
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 44 - Arbitration; Revised Uniform Act › § 16–4432. Savings clause

§ 16–4432. Savings clause.
This chapter does not affect an action or proceeding commenced or right accrued before the effective date of this chapter. Subject to § 16-4403, an arbitration agreement made before the effective date of this chapter is governed by §§ 16-4301 to 16-4319.
(Feb. 27, 2008, D.C. Law 17-111, § 2(b), 55 DCR 1847.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 33 of the Uniform Arbitration Act (2000).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4501. Purposes of chapter. [Repealed]

§ 16–4501. Purposes of chapter. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4501.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 1 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4502. Definitions. [Repealed]

§ 16–4502. Definitions. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Mar. 14, 1985, D.C. Law 5-159, § 2, 32 DCR 30; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c) 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4502.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon §  2 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4503. Exercise of jurisdiction. [Repealed]

§ 16–4503. Exercise of jurisdiction. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4503.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 3 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4504. Notice and opportunity to be heard. [Repealed]

§ 16–4504. Notice and opportunity to be heard. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2000, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4504.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon §  4 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4505. Notice to persons outside the District; submission to jurisdiction. [Repealed]

§ 16–4505. Notice to persons outside the District; submission to jurisdiction. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4505.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon §  5 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4506. Simultaneous proceedings in other states. [Repealed]

§ 16–4506. Simultaneous proceedings in other states. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4506.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 6 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4507. Inconvenient forum. [Repealed]

§ 16–4507. Inconvenient forum. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4507.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 7 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4508. Jurisdiction declined by reason of conduct. [Repealed]

§ 16–4508. Jurisdiction declined by reason of conduct. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4508.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 8 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4509. Information under oath to be submitted to the Superior Court. [Repealed]

§ 16–4509. Information under oath to be submitted to the Superior Court. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4509.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 9 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4510. Additional parties. [Repealed]

§ 16–4510. Additional parties. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4510.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 10 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4511. Appearance of parties and the child. [Repealed]

§ 16–4511. Appearance of parties and the child. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4511.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 11 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4512. Binding force and res judicata effect of custody decree. [Repealed]

§ 16–4512. Binding force and res judicata effect of custody decree. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4512.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 12 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4513. Recognition of out-of-state custody decrees. [Repealed]

§ 16–4513. Recognition of out-of-state custody decrees. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4513.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 13 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4514. Modification of custody decree of another state. [Repealed]

§ 16–4514. Modification of custody decree of another state. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4514.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 14 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4515. Filing and enforcement of custody decree of another state. [Repealed]

§ 16–4515. Filing and enforcement of custody decree of another state. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4515.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 15 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4516. Registry of out-of-state custody decrees and proceedings. [Repealed]

§ 16–4516. Registry of out-of-state custody decrees and proceedings. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Mar. 14, 1985, D.C. Law 5-159, § 3, 32 DCR 30; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4516.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 16 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4517. Certified copies of custody decree. [Repealed]

§ 16–4517. Certified copies of custody decree. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4517.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 17 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4518. Taking testimony in another state. [Repealed]

§ 16–4518. Taking testimony in another state. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Mar. 14, 1985, D.C. Law 5-159, § 4, 32 DCR 30; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4518.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 18 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4519. Hearings and studies in another state; orders to appear. [Repealed]

§ 16–4519. Hearings and studies in another state; orders to appear. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4519.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 19 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4520. Assistance to courts of other states. [Repealed]

§ 16–4520. Assistance to courts of other states. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4520.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 20 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4521. Preservation of documents for use in other states. [Repealed]

§ 16–4521. Preservation of documents for use in other states. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4521.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 21 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4522. Request for court records of another state. [Repealed]

§ 16–4522. Request for court records of another state. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4522.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 22 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4523. International application. [Repealed]

§ 16–4523. International application. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4523.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 23 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 45 - Uniform Child Custody Proceedings › § 16–4524. Severability. [Repealed]

§ 16–4524. Severability. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Mar. 10, 1983, D.C. Law 4-200, § 2, 30 DCR 125; Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(c), 48 DCR 2214.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 16-4524.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 25 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.02. Proceedings governed by other law

§ 16–4601.02. Proceedings governed by other law.
This chapter does not govern a proceeding pertaining to:
(1) The authorization of emergency medical care for a child;
(2) An adoption proceeding pursuant to § 16-301; or
(3) A proceeding to adjudicate the parentage of a child pursuant to § 16-909(b-2).
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214; Mar. 19, 2013, D.C. Law 19-233, § 2(c), 59 DCR 14769.)
Effect of Amendments
The 2013 amendment by D.C. Law 19-233 rewrote the section.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 103 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.03. Application to Indian tribes

§ 16–4601.03. Application to Indian tribes.
A child-custody proceeding that pertains to an Indian child as defined in the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, approved November 8, 1978 (92 Stat. 3069; 25 U.S.C. § 1901 et seq.), is not subject to this chapter to the extent that it is governed by the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 104 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.04. International application of chapter

§ 16–4601.04. International application of chapter.
(a) A court of the District shall treat a foreign country as if it were a state of the United States for the purpose of applying subchapters I and II of this chapter.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this section, a child-custody determination made in a foreign country under factual circumstances in substantial conformity with the jurisdictional standards of this chapter must be recognized and enforced under subchapter III of this chapter.
(c) A court of the District need not apply this chapter if the child custody law of a foreign country violates fundamental principles of human rights.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 105 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.05. Effect of child-custody determination

§ 16–4601.05. Effect of child-custody determination.
A child-custody determination made by a court of the District that had jurisdiction under this chapter binds all persons who have been served in accordance with the laws of the District or notified in accordance with § 16-4601.07 or who have submitted to the jurisdiction of the court, and who have been given an opportunity to be heard. As to those persons, the determination is conclusive as to all decided issues of law and fact except to the extent the determination is modified.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 106 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.06. Priority

§ 16–4601.06. Priority.
If a question of existence or exercise of jurisdiction under this chapter is raised in a child-custody proceeding, the question, upon request of a party, must be given priority on the calendar and handled expeditiously.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 107 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.07. Notice to persons outside the District

§ 16–4601.07. Notice to persons outside the District.
(a) Notice required for the exercise of jurisdiction when a person is outside the District may be given in a manner prescribed by the law of the District for service of process or by the law of the state in which the service is made. Notice must be given in a manner reasonably calculated to give actual notice, but may be by publication if other means are not effective.
(b) Proof of service may be made in the manner prescribed by the law of the District or by the law of the state in which the service is made.
(c) Notice is not required for the exercise of jurisdiction with respect to a person who submits to the jurisdiction of the court.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4601.05, § 16-4602.05, § 16-4602.10, § 16-4603.05, § 16-4603.08, and § 16-4603.10.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 108 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.08. Appearance and limited immunity

§ 16–4601.08. Appearance and limited immunity.
(a) A party to a child-custody proceeding, including a modification proceeding, or a petitioner or respondent in a proceeding to enforce or register a child-custody determination, is not subject to personal jurisdiction in the District for another proceeding or purpose solely by reason of having participated, or of having been physically present for the purpose of participating, in the proceeding.
(b) A person who is subject to personal jurisdiction in the District on a basis other than physical presence is not immune from service of process in the District. A party present in the District who is subject to the jurisdiction of another state is not immune from service of process allowable under the laws of that state.
(c) The immunity granted by subsection (a) of this section does not extend to civil litigation based on acts unrelated to the participation in a proceeding under this chapter committed by an individual while present in the District.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 109 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.09. Communication between courts

§ 16–4601.09. Communication between courts.
(a) A court of the District may communicate with a court in another state concerning a proceeding arising under this chapter.
(b) The court may allow the parties to participate in the communication. If the parties are not able to participate in the communication, they must be given the opportunity to present facts and legal arguments before a decision on jurisdiction is made.
(c) Communication between courts on schedules, calendars, court records, and similar matters may occur without informing the parties. A record need not be made of the communication.
(d) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this section, a record must be made of a communication under this section. The parties must be informed promptly of the communication and granted access to the record.
(e) For the purposes of this section, the term “record” means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 110 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.10. Taking testimony in another state

§ 16–4601.10. Taking testimony in another state.
(a) In addition to other procedures available to a party, a party to a child-custody proceeding may offer testimony of witnesses who are located in another state, including testimony of the parties and the child, by deposition or other means allowable in the District for testimony taken in another state. The court on its own motion may order that the testimony of a person be taken in another state and may prescribe the manner in which and the terms upon which the testimony is taken.
(b) A court of the District may permit an individual residing in another state to be deposed or to testify by telephone, audiovisual means, or other electronic means before a designated court or at another location in that state. A court of the District shall cooperate with courts of other states in designating an appropriate location for the deposition or testimony.
(c) Documentary evidence transmitted from another state to a court of the District by technological means that do not produce an original writing may not be excluded from evidence on an objection based on the means of transmission.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4604.03.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 111 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter I - General Provisions › § 16–4601.11. Cooperation between courts; preservation of records

§ 16–4601.11. Cooperation between courts; preservation of records.
(a) A court of the District may request the appropriate court of another state to:
(1) Hold an evidentiary hearing;
(2) Order a person to produce or give evidence pursuant to procedures of that state;
(3) Order that an evaluation be made with respect to the custody of a child involved in a pending proceeding;
(4) Forward to the court of the District a certified copy of the transcript of the record of the hearing, the evidence otherwise presented, and any evaluation prepared in compliance with the request; and
(5) Order a party to a child-custody proceeding or any person having physical custody of the child to appear in the proceeding, with or without the child.
(b) Upon request of a court of another state, a court of the District may hold a hearing or enter an order described in subsection (a) of this section.
(c) Travel and other necessary and reasonable expenses incurred under subsections (a) and (b) of this section may be assessed against the parties according to the law of the District.
(d) A court of the District shall preserve the pleadings, orders, decrees, records of hearings, evaluations, and other pertinent records with respect to a child-custody proceeding until the child attains 18 years of age. Upon appropriate request by a court or law enforcement official of another state, the court shall forward a certified copy of those records.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4604.03.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 112 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.01. Initial child-custody jurisdiction

§ 16–4602.01. Initial child-custody jurisdiction.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, a court of the District has jurisdiction to make an initial child-custody determination only if:
(1) The District is the home state of the child on the date of the commencement of the proceeding, or was the home state of the child within 6 months before the commencement of the proceeding and the child is absent from the District, but a parent or person acting as a parent continues to live in the District;
(2) A court of another state does not have jurisdiction under paragraph (1) of this subsection, or a court of the home state of the child has declined to exercise jurisdiction on the ground that the District is the more appropriate forum under §§ 16-4602.07 or 16-4602.08, and:
(A) The child and the child’s parents, or the child and at least one parent or a person acting as a parent, have a significant connection with the District other than mere physical presence; and
(B) Substantial evidence is available in the District concerning the child’s care, protection, training, and personal relationships;
(3) All courts having jurisdiction under paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection have declined to exercise jurisdiction on the ground that a court of the District is the more appropriate forum to determine the custody of the child under §§ 16-4602.07 or 16-4602.08; or
(4) No court of any other state would have jurisdiction under the criteria specified in paragraph (1), (2), or (3) of this subsection.
(b) Subsection (a) of this section is the exclusive jurisdictional basis for making a child-custody determination by a court of the District.
(c) Physical presence of, or personal jurisdiction over, a party or a child is not necessary or sufficient to make a child-custody determination.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.02, § 16-4602.03, § 16-4602.04, § 16-4602.08, and § 16-4604.10.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 201 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.02. Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction

§ 16–4602.02. Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, a court of the District which has made a child-custody determination consistent with §§ 16-4602.01 or 16-4602.03 has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction over the determination until:
(1) A court of the District determines that neither the child, nor the child and one parent, nor the child and any person acting as a parent have a significant connection with the District and that substantial evidence is no longer available in the District concerning the child’s care, protection, training, and personal relationships; or
(2) A court of the District or a court of another state determines that the child, the child’s parents, and any person acting as a parent do not presently reside in the District.
(b) A court of the District which has made a child-custody determination and does not have exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under this section may modify that determination only if it has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under § 16-4602.01.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.03.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 202 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.03. Jurisdiction to modify determination

§ 16–4602.03. Jurisdiction to modify determination.
Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, a court of the District may not modify a child-custody determination made by a court of another state unless a court of the District has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under § 16-4602.01(a)(1) or (2) and:
(1) The court of the other state determines it no longer has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under § 16-4602.02 or that a court of the District would be a more convenient forum under § 16-4602.07; or
(2) A court of the District or a court of the other state determines that the child, the child’s parents, and any person acting as a parent do not presently reside in the other state.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.02.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 203 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.04. Temporary emergency jurisdiction

§ 16–4602.04. Temporary emergency jurisdiction.
(a) A court of the District has temporary emergency jurisdiction if the child is present in the District and the child has been abandoned or it is necessary in an emergency to protect the child because the child, or a sibling or parent of the child, is subjected to or threatened with mistreatment or abuse.
(b) If there is no previous child-custody determination that is entitled to be enforced under this chapter and a child-custody proceeding has not been commenced in a court of a state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03, a child-custody determination made under this section remains in effect until an order is obtained from a court of a state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03. If a child-custody proceeding has not been or is not commenced in a court of a state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03, a child-custody determination made under this section becomes a final determination, if it so provides, and the District becomes the home state of the child.
(c) If there is a previous child-custody determination that is entitled to be enforced under this chapter, or a child-custody proceeding has been commenced in a court of a state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03, any order issued by a court of the District under this section must specify in the order a period that the court considers adequate to allow the person seeking an order to obtain an order from the state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03. The order issued in the District remains in effect until an order is obtained from the other state within the period specified or the period expires.
(d) A court of the District which has been asked to make a child-custody determination under this section, upon being informed that a child-custody proceeding has been commenced in, or a child-custody determination has been made by, a court of a state having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03, shall immediately communicate with the other court. A court of the District which is exercising jurisdiction pursuant to §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03, upon being informed that a child-custody proceeding has been commenced in, or a child-custody determination has been made by, a court of another state under a statute similar to this section shall immediately communicate with the court of that state to resolve the emergency, protect the safety of the parties and the child, and determine a period for the duration of the temporary order.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.01, § 16-4602.02, § 16-4602.03, § 16-4602.06, § 16-4602.08, § 16-4603.10, § 16-4603.14, and § 16-4604.05.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 204 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.05. Notice; opportunity to be heard; joinder

§ 16–4602.05. Notice; opportunity to be heard; joinder.
(a) Before a child-custody determination is made under this chapter, notice and an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the standards of § 16-4601.07 must be given to all persons entitled to notice under the law of the District as in child-custody proceedings between residents of the District, any parent whose parental rights have not been previously terminated, and any person having physical custody of the child.
(b) This chapter does not govern the enforceability of a child-custody determination made without notice or an opportunity to be heard.
(c) The obligation to join a party and the right to intervene as a party in a child-custody proceeding under this chapter are governed by the law of the District as in child-custody proceedings between residents of the District.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 205 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.06. Simultaneous proceedings

§ 16–4602.06. Simultaneous proceedings.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, a court of the District may not exercise its jurisdiction under this subchapter if, at the time of the commencement of the proceeding, a proceeding concerning the custody of the child has been commenced in a court of another state having jurisdiction substantially in conformity with this chapter, unless the proceeding has been terminated or is stayed by the court of the other state because a court of the District is a more convenient forum under § 16-4602.07.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, a court of the District, before hearing a child-custody proceeding, shall examine the court documents and other information supplied by the parties pursuant to § 16-4602.09. If the court determines that a child-custody proceeding has been commenced in a court in another state having jurisdiction substantially in accordance with this chapter, the court of the District shall stay its proceeding and communicate with the court of the other state. If the court of the state having jurisdiction substantially in accordance with this chapter does not determine that the court of the District is a more appropriate forum, the court of the District shall dismiss the proceeding.
(c) In a proceeding to modify a child-custody determination, a court of the District shall determine whether a proceeding to enforce the determination has been commenced in another state. If a proceeding to enforce a child-custody determination has been commenced in another state, the court may:
(1) Stay the proceeding for modification pending the entry of an order of a court of the other state enforcing, staying, denying, or dismissing the proceeding for enforcement;
(2) Enjoin the parties from continuing with the proceeding for enforcement; or
(3) Proceed with the modification under conditions it considers appropriate.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 206 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.07. Inconvenient forum

§ 16–4602.07. Inconvenient forum.
(a) A court of the District which has jurisdiction under this chapter to make a child-custody determination may decline to exercise its jurisdiction at any time if it determines that it is an inconvenient forum under the circumstances and that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum. The issue of inconvenient forum may be raised upon motion of a party, the court’s own motion, or request of another court.
(b) Before determining whether it is an inconvenient forum, a court of the District shall consider whether it is appropriate for a court of another state to exercise jurisdiction. For this purpose, the court shall allow the parties to submit information and shall consider all relevant factors, including:
(1) Whether domestic violence has occurred and is likely to continue in the future and which state could best protect the parties and the child;
(2) The length of time the child has resided outside the District;
(3) The distance between the court in the District and the court in the state that would assume jurisdiction;
(4) The relative financial circumstances of the parties;
(5) Any agreement of the parties as to which state should assume jurisdiction;
(6) The nature and location of the evidence required to resolve the pending litigation, including testimony of the child;
(7) The ability of the court of each state to decide the issue expeditiously and the procedures necessary to present the evidence; and
(8) The familiarity of the court of each state with the facts and issues in the pending litigation.
(c) If a court of the District determines that it is an inconvenient forum and that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum, it shall stay the proceedings upon condition that a child-custody proceeding be promptly commenced in another designated state and may impose any other condition the court considers just and proper.
(d) A court of the District may decline to exercise its jurisdiction under this chapter if a child-custody determination is incidental to an action for divorce or another proceeding while still retaining jurisdiction over the divorce or other proceeding.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.01, § 16-4602.03, § 16-4602.06, and § 16-4602.08.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 207 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.08. Jurisdiction declined by reason of conduct

§ 16–4602.08. Jurisdiction declined by reason of conduct.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in § 16-4602.04, if a court of the District has jurisdiction under this chapter because a person seeking to invoke its jurisdiction has engaged in unjustifiable conduct, the court shall decline to exercise its jurisdiction unless:
(1) The parents and all persons acting as parents have acquiesced in the exercise of jurisdiction;
(2) A court of the state otherwise having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03 determines that the District is a more appropriate forum under § 16-4602.07; or
(3) No court of any other state would have jurisdiction under the criteria specified in §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03.
(b) If a court of the District declines to exercise its jurisdiction pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, it may fashion an appropriate remedy to ensure the safety of the child and prevent a repetition of the unjustifiable conduct, including staying the proceeding until a child-custody proceeding is commenced in a court having jurisdiction under §§ 16-4602.01 through 16-4602.03.
(c) If a court dismisses a petition or stays a proceeding because it declines to exercise its jurisdiction pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, it shall assess against the party seeking to invoke its jurisdiction necessary and reasonable expenses, including costs, communication expenses, attorney’s fees, investigative fees, expenses for witnesses, travel expenses, and child care during the course of the proceedings, unless the party from whom fees are sought establishes that the assessment would be clearly inappropriate. The court may not assess fees, costs, or expenses against the District unless authorized by law other than this chapter.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.01.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 208 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 16 - Particular Actions, Proceedings and Matters. [Enacted title] › Chapter 46 - Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement › Subchapter II - Jurisdiction › § 16–4602.09. Information to be submitted to court

§ 16–4602.09. Information to be submitted to court.
(a) In a child-custody proceeding, each party, in its first pleading or in an attached affidavit, shall give information, if reasonably ascertainable, under oath as to the child’s present address or whereabouts, the places where the child has lived during the last 5 years, and the names and present addresses of the persons with whom the child has lived during that period. The pleading or affidavit must state whether the party:
(1) Has participated, as a party or witness or in any other capacity, in any other proceeding concerning the custody of or visitation with the child and, if so, identify the court, the case number, and the date of the child-custody determination, if any;
(2) Knows of any proceeding that could affect the current proceeding, including proceedings for enforcement and proceedings relating to domestic violence, protective orders, termination of parental rights, and adoptions and, if so, identify the court, the case number, and the nature of the proceeding; and
(3) Knows the names and addresses of any person not a party to the proceeding who has physical custody of the child or claims rights of legal custody or physical custody of, or visitation with, the child and, if so, the names and addresses of those persons.
(b) If the information required by subsection (a) of this section is not furnished, the court, upon motion of a party or its own motion, may stay the proceeding until the information is furnished.
(c) If the declaration as to any of the items described in subsection (a) (1) through (3) of this section is in the affirmative, the declarant shall give additional information under oath as required by the court. The court may examine the parties under oath as to details of the information furnished and other matters pertinent to the court’s jurisdiction and the disposition of the case.
(d) Each party has a continuing duty to inform the court of any proceeding in this or any other state that could affect the current proceeding.
(e) If a party alleges in an affidavit or a pleading under oath that the health, safety, or liberty of a party or child would be jeopardized by disclosure of identifying information, the information must be sealed and may not be disclosed to the other party or the public unless the court orders the disclosure to be made after a hearing in which the court takes into consideration the health, safety, or liberty of the party or child and determines that the disclosure is in the interest of justice.
(Apr. 27, 2001, D.C. Law 13-293, § 2(d), 48 DCR 2214.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 16-4602.06 and § 16-4604.06.
Editor's Notes
Uniform Law: This section is based upon § 209 of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (1997 Act).