Court of Appeals Updates Operating Status

March 24, 2021

The District of Columbia Court of Appeals issued an order on March 22 updating its operating status as it continues to address concerns regarding the coronavirus pandemic.

The Historic Courthouse will remain closed to the public through June 30, 2021, and a reduced number of court staff will be onsite to process requests for files and records. The order outlines restrictions and procedures that apply to those authorized to enter the courthouse, pursuant to the court’s June 26, 2020, order.

To facilitate remote access for those without computers or Wi-Fi at home, the D.C. Courts are offering sites across the District for remote oral arguments or appellate mediation. Interested parties should call 202-879-1900 or email [email protected] at least 24 hours before their hearing to reserve a computer.

The Committee on Admissions office will also be closed to the public during this period. Those seeking information about Bar admission, applications for pro hac vice admission, and other admissions-related inquiries should check the committee’s website.

The also order contains information regarding oral arguments and filing deadlines, as well as procedures for emergency, electronic, paper, and pro se party filings. The requirement for the clerk to mail paper copies of notices of judgment remains suspended, and appellate mediation has resumed via telephonic conference or remote videoconferencing.

The full text of the order can be viewed here.