Access to the DC Courts
It is the intent of the DC Courts to provide access to services, programs, and activities that are offered by the DC Courts to any qualified participant, applicant, or member of the public with a disability, upon reasonable notice (when necessary) and without requiring action that would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of a service, program, or activity or in undue financial or administrative burden. You can contact the ADA Coordinator at ADACoordinator [at] dcsc.gov (ADACoordinator[at]dcsc[dot]gov).
How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation under ADA
DC Courts ADA Grievance and Appeals Process
Wheelchair Accessibility
All DC Courts buildings are wheelchair accessible and some buildings have multiple accessible entrances for use by members of the general public. See a list of wheelchair accessible entrances.
Website Accessibility
The DC Courts' website was developed for persons who are interested in the District of Columbia Courts. We strive to make it as accessible as possible and keep that goal in mind when developing web pages and adding content. Also, our Information Technology Division periodically tests the website, using on-line accessibility tools, to help ensure that it continues to meet accessibility standards. If you encounter any difficulties or have any comments or feedback, please webmaster [at] dcsc.gov (email us). We will consider all suggestions for improvement and make whatever changes are reasonably possible. We appreciate your input.
DC Relay Service
The DC Relay Service facilitates communications between persons who use a text telephones (TTY) and persons who use a voice telephone.
A person who is either deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech disabled types his or her conversation using a TTY. A Communications Assistant at the DC Relay Service relays the written material from the TTY to the hearing person by reading it over a voice telephone. For the other end of the conversation the Communications Assistant relays the hearing person's spoken words verbatim by typing them to the TTY user.
The DC Relay Service also has Communications Assistants who are bilingual (Spanish).
The Communications Assistant is a trained professional in relaying conversations. The Communications Assistant maintains strict confidentiality about the conversation under professional ethics, company policy, and Federal Communications Commission regulations.
To access the relay service dial 711.
Contact Information
711
(800) 643-3769 (voice)
(202) 855-1000 (voice)
(800) 643-3768 (TTY)
(202) 855-1234 (TTY)
Spanish
(800) 546-7111 (TTY)
(800) 546-5111 (TTY)
Employees and Job Applicants
Under the ADA a qualified employee with a disability can request reasonable accommodations so the employee can perform their job. A job applicant can request reasonable accommodations for tests that are administered as part of the application process. To request reasonable accommodations contact the ADACoordinator [at] dcsc.gov (chief ADA coordinator) or complete and submit the form for requesting an accommodation.
Court Users
The DC Courts are wheelchair accessible. We also are accessible to other persons with special needs. To make arrangements for an accommodation, please contact the appropriate person listed below.
Architectural Features
To provide an equal opportunity for court users with disabilities to participate in court proceedings and court services, events, and programs the District of Columbia Courts conducted three formal self-assessments of court facilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. In addition, assessments have been conducted by disability advisory committees.
In addition to these assessments, as part of the Judiciary Square Master Space Plan process existing court facilities and their conditions were documented. Renovation and construction projects were planned and scheduled based upon projected needs and funding. The removal of barriers is one component of each of these projects.
Courtrooms present a unique set of challenges because of raised elements that are rooted in history and culture. Each change in elevation presents a barrier to persons with disabilities. Some of the architectural barriers have been addressed in our courtrooms include:
- Wheelchair accessible jury boxes
- Wheelchair accessible witness boxes
- Wheelchair accessible jury deliberation rooms
- Wheelchair accessible benches
- Wheelchair accessible clerk's station
- Wheelchair accessible rail and well
- Accessible and adjustable podiums
- Accessible spectator seating
- Acoustical treatments on the courtroom walls and ceilings
- Accessible counsel tables
- Enhanced lighting levels
Some of the elements that have been made accessible in the DC courthouses include:
- Jury waiting rooms
- Entrances and doorways
- Water fountains
- Restrooms
- Elevator signage and controls
- Counters
- Signage
- Communications systems
- Public waiting areas
- Fire alarms
Use of Segways and Other Mobility Devices
Individuals with mobility disabilities may use wheelchairs and manually-powered mobility aids, such as walkers, crutches, canes, braces, or other similar devices in public areas of the District of Columbia Courts.
The District of Columbia Courts make reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures to allow persons with mobility disabilities to use a Segway-type of power-driven mobility device in the public areas of a courthouse.
The Segway-type device shall be operated safely at all times and at a speed that is both safe and appropriate.
The DC Courts do not ask an individual using a wheelchair or Segway-type questions about the nature and extent of his or her disability. However, the DC Courts may ask a person using a Segway-type device to provide credible assurance that it is required because of his or her disability.
The DC Courts accept the presentation of a valid state-issued, disability parking placard or card, or other state-issued proof of disability as a credible assurance that the use of the Segway-type device is for the individual’s mobility disability. In lieu of these forms of assurance, the DC Courts accept a verbal representation, not contradicted by observable fact, as credible assurance that the mobility device is being used for a mobility disability. A “valid” disability placard or card is one that is presented by the individual to whom it was issued and is otherwise in compliance with the state of issuance’s requirements for disability placards or cards.
Service Animal Policy
It is the policy of the District of Columbia Courts to welcome court users with service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The DC Courts also welcome court users with service animals-in-training as defined by District of Columbia statute.
If you have a question or concern regarding this policy, please contact:
Ron Scott, Attorney Advisor
District of Columbia Courts
500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Room 6680
Washington, DC 20001
ADACoordinator [at] dcsc.gov (ADACoordinator[at]dcsc[dot]gov)
(202) 879-1700 (voice)
(202) 879-1802 (fax)
711 (DC Relay for the deaf)
Who to Contact:
ADA and accessibility issues in general:
Ron Scott, Attorney Advisor
(202) 879-1700 (202)
879-1365 (TDD)
ADACoordinator [at] dcsc.gov (ADACoordinator[at]dcsc[dot]gov)
DC Court of Appeals:
Julio A. Castillo, Clerk of Court
JCastillo [at] dcappeals.gov (JCastillo[at]dcappeals[dot]gov)
(202) 879-2700
(202) 626-8843(TDD)
Committee on Admissions (DC Bar Exam):
Shela Shanks, Director
coa [at] dcappeals.gov (coa[at]dcappeals[dot]gov)
(202) 879-2710
Sign Language Interpreting:
Coordinator of Court Interpreting Services Office of Court Interpreting Services
(202) 879-1492 (voice)
interpreters [at] dcsc.gov (interpreters[at]dcsc[dot]gov)
Assistive Listening Devices:
Courtroom Technology Branch
courtroomtechnology [at] dcsc.gov (courtroomtechnology[at]dcsc[dot]gov)
(202) 879-1230
Braille:
Contact the office that prepared the written version of the document and ask that it be transcribed and embossed in Braille.
Information Center
202-879-1010 (voice)
Real-Time Captioning and CART:
Ron Scott, Attorney Advisor
202-879-1700
ADACoordinator [at] dcsc.gov (ADACoordinator[at]dcsc[dot]gov)
Jury Service:
LaShaye White, Juror Officer
202-879-4604
Crime Victims Compensation Program:
Blanche Reese
Blanche.Reese [at] dcsc.gov
(202) 879-2958
Domestic Violence Division:
Rita Blandino
Rita.Blandino [at] dcsc.gov
(202) 879-0168
Human Resources:
Sharon Gibson
Sharon.Gibson [at] dccsystem.gov
(202) 879-1842
Multi-Door Dispute Resolution Division:
M. Brad Palmore
Brad.Palmore [at] dcsc.gov
(202) 879-0660
Probate Division / Office of the Register of Wills:
Nicole Stevens
Nicole.Stevens [at] dcsc.gov
(202) 879-9402
Purpose
To accomplish the DC Courts’ mission to protect rights and liberties, uphold and interpret the law, and resolve disputes peacefully, fairly and effectively, the Joint Committee on Judicial Administration has established the following standard:
All persons who conduct business in court buildings are expected to behave and dress in a manner that reflects the seriousness of and respect for judicial proceedings. Persons exhibiting behavior or attire that distracts from the orderliness of court proceedings or that is threatening or contrary to the civility and dignity of the DC Courts and its work, may be excluded from the courthouse and its courtrooms.
Behavior, Decorum and Civility
Court participants are expected to be civil to all. The following behavior is inappropriate in the DC Courts’ buildings:
- Disorderly, disruptive or indecent conduct of any nature;
- Shouting, arguing, or abusive or aggressive language;
- Obscene or offensive gestures or taunting of others, including horseplay or fighting;
- Running, loitering, or defacing court property, including spitting or littering.
Dress
The District of Columbia Courts respect individual styles and fashion. However, certain attire is not suitable when conducting business or visiting the court because it distracts from the orderliness of court proceedings, is threatening, or is contrary to the civility and dignity of the judicial branch. Persons wearing inappropriate attire may be excluded from the courthouse and its courtrooms. Inappropriate attire includes, but is not limited to: gang paraphernalia and insignia; exposed undergarments; clothing with words, depictions, or messages that are intimidating or obscene; clothing with sexual or drug references; and sheer, see through, or provocative clothing.
Food
Eating is prohibited in all courtrooms, corridors, and public areas of court buildings. Persons wishing to consume food may do so in the Courts’ Café, located on the C Street level of the Moultrie Courthouse, or in vending rooms. Jurors can eat in the Juror’s Lounge on the third floor.
Drugs and Alcohol
The use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco products or electronic smoking devices is strictly prohibited inside any court building. Smoking tobacco products or electronic smoking devices is permitted outside DC Courts’ buildings, at least 25 feet from building entrances.
Electronics
Electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, iPads, computers) may not be used in any courtroom. Taking photographs or making audio recordings is prohibited inside all DC Courts’ buildings. In certain instances, these activities may be permitted upon the written approval of the Courts’ Executive Officer.
Weapons
No weapons of any kind are permitted in DC Courts’ buildings. This includes firearms, tasers, mace, pepper spray, knives, scissors or any item that may be used as a weapon. Without exception, Court Security Officers will confiscate all illegal items and they will not be returned. The Courts’ Weapons Policy is posted at the entrances to DC Courts’ buildings and is available online at www.dccourts.gov.
Solicitation
Solicitation (selling items) and collection (retrieval of cash in exchange for items) are prohibited on court property and within court buildings, with the exception of any activities authorized in writing by the DC Courts’ Executive Officer.
Animals
Animals are not allowed in any court building, with the exception of service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Potential Penalties
Persons who violate these provisions may be subject to arrest, expulsion or may be banned from entering DC Courts’ buildings.
To see the Court Building Regulations, click here.
See a list of all court divisions and their respective buildings. If you need help to determine which division or court you should go to, please call (202) 879-1010.
Division | Building | Phone | Directions |
---|---|---|---|
Admissions and Unauthorized Practice of Law | Historic Courthouse | 202-879-2710 | Get Directions |
Clerk of the Court of Appeals | Historic Courthouse | 202-879-2700 | Get Directions |
Court of Appeals - Case Management Division | Historic Courthouse | 202-879-2716 | Get Directions |
Court of Appeals Administrative Division | Historic Courthouse | 202-879-2755 | Get Directions |
Court of Appeals – Public Office | Historic Courthouse | 202-879-2700 | Get Directions |
Division | Building | Phone | Directions |
---|---|---|---|
Civil Division - Civil Actions | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1133 | Get Directions |
Civil Division - Landlord and Tenant Branch | Court Building B | 202-508-4879 | Get Directions |
Civil Division - Quality Review Branch | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1750 | Get Directions |
Civil Division - Small Claims and Conciliation Branch | Court Building B | 202-879-1120 | Get Directions |
Clerk of the Superior Court | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1400 | Get Directions |
Crime Victims Compensation Program | Court Building A | 202-879-4216 | Get Directions |
Criminal Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1688 | Get Directions |
Criminal Finance Office | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1840 | Get Directions |
Domestic Violence Unit | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-0157 | Get Directions |
Domestic Violence Unit - Greater Southeast Domestic Violence Intake Center | SE Satellite Office1328 Southern Ave, SE, Suite 311 | 202-561-3000 | |
Family Court Operations Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1634 | Get Directions |
Family Court Operations Division - Juvenile and Neglect Branch | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1316 | Get Directions |
Family Court Operations Division - Mental Health and Habilitation Branch | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1040 | Get Directions |
Family Court Operations Division - Paternity and Support Branch | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-4856 | Get Directions |
Family Court Social Services Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1866 | Get Directions |
Family Court Social Services Division - Northeast Satellite Office | CSSD NE Satellite Office2575 Reed St, NE | ||
Family Court Social Services Division - Northwest and UTURN Satellite Office | CSSD NW Satellite Office1724 Kalorama Rd, NW | ||
Family Court Social Services Division - Southeast Satellite Office | CSSD SE Satellite Office1110 V Street, SE | ||
Family Court Social Services Division - Southwest Satellite Office | CSSD SW Satellite Office1201 South Capitol St, SW | ||
Multi-Door Dispute Resolution Division | Court Building C | 202-879-1549 | Get Directions |
Office of the Auditor Master | Offices at Gallery Place | 202-879-3281 | Get Directions |
Probate Division | Court Building A | 202-879-9460 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Appeals Coordinators Office | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1731 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Child Care Center | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1759 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Court Library | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1435 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Judge-in-Chambers | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1450 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Jurors' Office | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-4604 | Get Directions |
Special Operations Division - Office of Court Interpreting Services | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-4828 | Get Directions |
Tax Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1399 | Get Directions |
Division | Building | Phone | Directions |
---|---|---|---|
Administrative Services Division | Offices at Gallery Place | 202-879-0476 | Get Directions |
Budget and Finance Division | Offices at Gallery Place | 202-879-7596 | Get Directions |
Capital Projects and Facilities Management Division | Offices at Gallery Place | 202-879-5515 | Get Directions |
Center for Education and Training | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-0488 | Get Directions |
Court Reporting and Recording Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1009 | Get Directions |
Executive Office | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-0157 | Get Directions |
Human Resources Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-0496 | Get Directions |
Information Technology Division | Court Building C | 202-508-1017 | Get Directions |
Office of the General Counsel | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-1627 | Get Directions |
Strategic Management Division | Moultrie Courthouse | 202-879-2860 | Get Directions |
For more information on the Regulations Governing Conduct and Use of District of Columbia Courts Buildings and Grounds, click here.
NWSO
Supervisory Probation Officer:
Mr. Ronald Williams
1724 Kalorama Road, NW
(202) 328-4433
Get Directions
Southeast Satellite Office (SESO)
Supervisory Probation Officer(s):
Mrs. Cheryl Rogers-Brown/Mr. Lorenious McDonald
1110 V Street, S.E.
(202) 508-8271
Get Directions
Northeast Satellite Office (NESO)
Supervisory Probation Officer:
Ms. Lisa Moxley/Mr. John Smith
5227 Reed Street, N.E.
(202) 508-8295
Get Directions
Southwest Satellite Office (SWSO)
Supervisory Probation Officer:
Ms. Tosha Layton
510, 4th Street, NW
(202) 508-1857
Get Directions
Leaders of Today in Solidarity (LOTS)
Supervisory Probation Officer:
Mr. Lawrence Weaver
Acting Supervisory Probation Officer
Ms. Stefanie Lea
118 Q Street, N.E.
Get Directions
Status Offender/Juvenile Behavioral Diversion
Program
Supervisory Probation Officer:
Ms. Regina Yorkman
Mr. Ronald DuBrey
920 Rhode Island Avenue, N.E.
Get Directions
2024 Holidays
Adult Arraignment Court (C-10), Juvenile New Referral Court (JM-15), and scheduled preventive detention hearing courtrooms operate on holidays unless otherwise noted.
New Year's Day: Monday, January 1
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday: Monday, January 15
Washington's Birthday: Monday, February 19
D.C. Emancipation Day: Tuesday, April 16
Memorial Day: Monday, May 27
Juneteenth National Independence Day: Wednesday, June 19
Independence Day: Thursday, July 4
Labor Day: Monday, September 2
Columbus / Indigenous Peoples' Day: Monday, October 14
Veterans Day: Monday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 28
Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25*
*Scheduled preventive detention hearing courtrooms do not operate on this date.