No Show for a DC Divorce Hearing

[Stewart]

I am scheduled for an uncontested divorce hearing in Washington, DC in a few weeks. I am the plaintiff, so therefore I must attend the hearing. However, I am not a DC resident, my wife/Defendant lived in DC until last week. She will have moved outside of the country at the time of our hearing. I have received conflicting information if she MUST be at the hearing because I am not a DC resident. Can anyone please confirm if divorce can be finalized without her attendance at the hearing?

[AFFA]

I wish to inform you that at least a party or parties counsel must be present during hearing. If even one of the party or its counsel is present then that person can explain the situation and necessary action may be taken.

AFF

[Friend In Court]

Originally Posted by Stewart I am scheduled for an uncontested divorce hearing in Washington, DC in a few weeks. I am the plaintiff, so therefore I must attend the hearing. However, I am not a DC resident, my wife/Defendant lived in DC until last week. She will have moved outside of the country at the time of our hearing. I have received conflicting information if she MUST be at the hearing because I am not a DC resident. Can anyone please confirm if divorce can be finalized without her attendance at the hearing?

Because she was a DC resident you had standing to bring your divorce in DC. However, if she does not appear, then she will have to at least have a properly authenticated representation that she agrees to the divorce. That means either an attorney who represents her be present or she will have to have a sworn affidavit that the court will accept.

Your only other option is to refile in the jurisdiction in which you live, have residence that satisfies your state's requirements and have her served by mail at her current residence.

[Stewart]

AFFA & FIC; thank you for information and recommendations. It was very helpful.