Residency Requirements

Before filing for a divorce in the District of Columbia, either spouse must have resided there for at least six months. Military personnel are eligible to file for divorce if they have been stationed in the District of Columbia for six months.

Grounds

The only grounds for divorce in District of Columbia are mutual voluntary separation without cohabitation for six months, and separation without cohabitation for one year.

Child Custody

The parties may agree to the child custody arrangements that they feel are best for their child(ren). The court may award joint or sole custody in a contested situation according to the best interests of the child. There shall be a refutable presumption that joint custody is in the best interest of the child.

Child Support

The District of Columbia’s specific child support guidelines apply in virtually every case, unless special circumstances are present. Both parties’ gross income and certain child related expenses are taken into consideration when calculating child support obligations. Child support will continue until the child reaches 18 years of age, and may be extended through his or her secondary education.

Mediation

Mediation may be requested through a motion filed by either party in an attempt to resolve disputed issues, if a divorce is pending. The parties may choose to submit any or all of their issues to mediation prior to the initiation of divorce proceedings, so that they may proceed in court on an uncontested basis.

Filing Fees

Court filing fees are in addition to the cost of using CompleteCase.com. This cost may vary by county. Please check with your local courthouse to determine the exact amount.