WomensLaw is not just for women. We serve and support all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.
Important: Even if courts are closed, you can still file for a protection order and other emergency relief. See our FAQ on Courts and COVID-19.
To file for divorce (or legal separation) in D.C., you or your spouse must have been a resident of D.C. for at least 6 months before the filing for the divorce.1
A member of the armed forces will be considered a resident of D.C. if s/he resides in D.C. continuously for 6 months during his/her military service.2
1 D.C. Code § 16-902(a)
2 D.C. Code § 16-902(e)
© 2008–2020 WomensLaw.org is a project of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, Inc. All rights reserved. This website is funded in part through a grant from the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). NNEDV is a 501©(3) non-profit organization; EIN 52-1973408.
English
Español