District of Columbia Eviction court process & timeline

How does the eviction court process work in District of Columbia?

An eviction case starts with a Superior Court summons, which must be served at least 14 days before the initial hearing. Statute text: "(a) The summons provided for by section 16-1501 shall be served at least 14 days before the day fixed for the initial hearing of the action." (D.C. Code § 16–1502).

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 16–1502 · last checked 2026-10-16