How to Fill Out a Cover Sheet for Default Judgment in DC

Question from Jack, How to Fill Out a Cover Sheet for Default Judgment in DC

Answer from AI:

When you’re involved in a legal dispute and have filed a lawsuit, one of the steps you might need to take is requesting a default judgment. This happens when the defendant fails to respond to your complaint within the specified time frame, which is typically 21 days after receiving proper service in the District of Columbia. Here’s a general guide on what to include on the cover sheet of a motion form to request a default judgment in the DC Civil Action Branch Court. Remember, this is not legal advice, and consulting with a legal professional is highly recommended for personalized guidance.

Essential Information for the Cover Sheet

The cover sheet of your motion for default judgment should include several key pieces of information to ensure it is processed correctly:

1. Case Name and Number: At the top of the document, clearly state the full name of your case as it appears in court records, along with the case number assigned by the court.
2. Title of the Motion: Clearly label the document as a “Motion for Default Judgment.” This helps the court clerks and the judge quickly identify the nature of your filing.
3. Parties Involved: List the names of the plaintiff(s) and defendant(s) as they appear in the original complaint. If you are the plaintiff, your name should be listed first.
4. Date of Filing: Include the date you are filing the motion. This is important for the court’s records and for tracking deadlines.
5. Contact Information: Provide your contact information, including your address, phone number, and email address. If you have legal representation, include your attorney’s contact information instead.
6. Statement of Service: Affirm that the defendant was properly served with the original complaint and failed to respond within the 21-day deadline. Include details of the service method and the date of service.

Additional Documents to Attach

Along with the cover sheet, you may need to attach additional documents to support your motion for default judgment:

• Affidavit of Default: A sworn statement confirming that the defendant failed to respond within the required time frame.
• Proof of Service: Copies of any documents that prove the defendant was properly served with the original complaint and the motion for default judgment.
• Proposed Order: A draft of the order you are asking the judge to sign, granting the default judgment in your favor.

Next Steps

After completing the cover sheet and attaching all necessary documents, you should:

1. Review everything carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness.
2. Make copies of the motion and all attachments for your records and for serving the defendant.
3. File the original documents with the court. This can usually be done in person at the courthouse or through electronic filing, if available.
4. Serve the defendant with a copy of the motion for default judgment, following the court’s rules for service.

Seeking Legal Advice

Filing for a default judgment involves understanding specific legal procedures and ensuring all court rules are followed. Mistakes in the process can delay your case or affect the outcome. It’s strongly recommended to consult with a legal professional who can provide personalized advice and assistance tailored to your situation. For more information on the process and requirements, you can visit the DC Courts’ official website.

Remember, this guide provides a general overview and should not be considered legal advice. Legal procedures can vary based on the specifics of each case and the latest legal standards.