If you live in the District of Columbia and just received a Summons from the Superior Court, you might be panicking. Don’t. You are in one of the most consumer-friendly jurisdictions in America.
However, D.C. has a strict deadline that is different from Maryland or Virginia. If you miss it, you risk a default judgment.
⚠️ Urgent: The 21-Day Clock is Ticking
Unlike many states that give you 30 days, D.C. typically gives you exactly 21 days to file your Answer. Do not delay.
[Generate Your D.C. Superior Court Answer in 15 Minutes]
1. The Deadline: 21 Days
In the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, the rules are clear:
- Standard Deadline: You have 21 calendar days from the day you were served to file your Answer.
- Exceptions: If you were served outside of D.C. (which is rare for residents), laws may vary, but sticking to the 21-day rule is your safest bet.
What happens if you miss it?
The plaintiff (debt collector) can file an Affidavit for Default. Once the clerk enters this, your bank account can be frozen without further notice.
2. Which Court Are You In?
D.C. doesn’t have “District” and “Circuit” courts like states. It’s all handled by the Superior Court, but divided by the amount of money involved:
- Small Claims Branch: For debts of $10,000 or less.
- Note: The process here is simpler, and forms are more basic.
- Civil Actions Branch: For debts over $10,000.
- Note: Strict adherence to formatting rules (Superior Court Rules of Civil Procedure) is required.
3. Filing Fees in D.C.
Yes, there is usually a cost to file your defense, but it depends on the claim amount:
- Small Claims ($500 – $2,500): Fee is approx. $10.
- Small Claims ($2,500 – $10,000): Fee is approx. $45.
- Civil Actions (Over $10,000): Fee is typically $120.
(Note: Fees are subject to change by the Clerk of the Court. If you cannot afford this, ask for an “Application to Proceed Without Prepayment of Costs” (IFP Form).)
4. Statute of Limitations: 3 Years
D.C. has one of the strictest time limits for debt collectors. Under D.C. Code § 12–301, the statute of limitations for most debts (credit cards, loans) is 3 years.
Crucial Update: D.C. recently passed strict laws prohibiting collectors from even threatening to sue on time-barred debt. If your debt is older than 3 years, you likely have a complete defense—but you MUST file an Answer to assert it!
5. How to File Your Answer
Since the pandemic, D.C. Superior Court has modernized.
Option A: In Person (Recommended for Pro Se)
Go to the Moultrie Courthouse (500 Indiana Ave NW). Bring 3 copies of your Answer. The clerk will stamp them for you.
Option B: Online (eFiling)
D.C. uses a system called CaseFileXpress. While convenient, it can be tricky for first-time users to register. If you use DebtAegis, we provide the document ready for either method.
🚀 Fight Back in the Nation’s Capital
D.C. judges are used to seeing debt collectors take advantage of consumers who don’t show up. When you file a professional, legally sound Answer, you instantly separate yourself from 90% of defendants.
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- tailored for D.C. Superior Court Rules.
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