How do I request a copy of a Court of Appeals' case file?
Please contact the Public Office at fileroom [at] dcappeals.gov or 202-879-2700.
Court of Appeals
Am I required to register for the Court of Appeals's electronic filing system?
We recommend that all parties register for the electronic filing and service system. DC Court of Appeals Rule 25(a)(2) requires attorneys to register for the electronic filing and service system.
How do I get a copy of a Court of Appeals Opinion or Memorandum Opinion and Judgment (MOJ)?
You can find opinionts at https://www.dccourts.gov/court-of-appeals/opinions-memorandum-of-judgments. Memoranda Orders and Judgments (MOJs) are generally not published. However, the court lists online the names and numbers of cases with MOJs at https://www.dccourts.gov/court-of-appeals/opinions-memorandum-of-judgments.
Is there a Westlaw or LexisNexis research terminal open for the public to use?
No. The Superior Court Library’s research terminals do not provide access to Westlaw or LexisNexis. You may consult this list to find other local law libraries around D.C.: https://www.dcbar.org/for-lawyers/external-resources/legal-links/law-libraries
How soon will I hear back from a librarian?
Within two (2) business days
How do I get help from a librarian?
You may call 202-879-1478 or email the librarians from our website link, "Ask a Librarian," at https://www.dccourts.gov/court-services/dc-court-libraries#ask-a-librarian.
If I can’t afford to pay a lawyer, where can I look for a free or “pro bono” lawyer to help me with my case?
There are organizations in the community that might be able to connect you with a free lawyer to help you with your case. Click here to see a list of these legal services organizations in D.C.
Where can I get legal help or advice about my case if I don’t have a lawyer?
The DC Courts and organizations in the community have information and resources available for people who don’t have a lawyer. Click here to go to the Courts’ Legal Help page.
What is a person called who does not have a lawyer?
A “litigant” or “party” is a person, corporation, or other entity that has a matter in a court. A litigant who does not have a lawyer is sometimes called a “pro se litigant” or an “unrepresented litigant.” Representing yourself can be complicated, but there are resource materials available to help you with preparing your case.