During the Government shutdown, all jurors should report to Court according to their jurors summons because the District of Columbia Courts will continue case resolution activities in all divisions and Family Court of the Superior Court and appeals in the Court of Appeals. Juvenile probation services provided by the Social Services Division will continue. The issuing of marriage licenses and performing marriage ceremonies will cease during the lapse, however Superior Court staff will continue to issue certified copies of vital records, which include certified copies of marriage certificates. More information can be found here: https://www.dccourts.gov/sites/default/files/matters-docs/DC_Courts_Shutdown_Plan.pdf
The courtroom called Judge in Chambers (JIC) in the Civil Division handles a wide variety of emergency hearings, short-term cases, and administrative matters, such as adult name changes and other changes to vital records. in the Civil Division. Below you will find information about the most common matters handled in JIC, as well as applications and forms you can complete and file online or print and file in person.
In most instances, applicants/parties will be required to attend a hearing before a judge in JIC. Please note that these hearings are conducted through Webex and will rarely be on the same day that an applicant/party files their paperwork with the court.
Mondays-Fridays:
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Exceptions
All government holidays
(202) 879 - 1133