TPOs/CPOs
Child Support
DC Custody and Family Court
Public Benefits
Housing
100

How long is a TPO valid for?

14 days 

100

What DC agency handles child support cases?  

Child Support Services Division (CSSD) 

100

What court handles custody cases in DC?

DC Superior Court, Family Court

100

In DC, what must a SNAP recipient do if their income changes during the certification period?

In DC, what must a SNAP recipient do if their income changes during the certification period?

100

What court handles eviction cases in Washington, DC?

DC Superior Court, Landlord and Tenant Court

200

How long is a CPO valid for?

Up to 1 year

200

Can DC establish child support even if there is no custody order?

Yes

200

What standard does DC use to decide custody?

The best interest of the child

200

Does receiving TANF automatically qualify a household for SNAP in DC?

No. TANF and SNAP have separate eligibility rules, even though DHS administers both.

200

Can a landlord legally evict a tenant in DC without a court order?

No

300

How soon does a judge usually review a TPO request in DC?

The same day it is filed 

300

What enforcement action can DC take if child support is not paid?

Wage garnishment, tax refund intercept, or license suspension

300

Can DC courts issue temporary custody orders?

Yes

300

In DC, how does receiving child support impact TANF benefits?

Child support is counted as income and can reduce or end TANF benefits.

300

Before filing an eviction case in DC, what notice must most landlords give?

A written Notice to Quit (or Notice to Vacate)

400

Who serves TPOs and CPOs in DC?

The U.S. Marshals Service or MPD

400

Does shared custody automatically mean no child support in DC?

No, support is based on income and guidelines

400

Does DC consider domestic violence when deciding custody or visitation?

Yes, it is a required factor 

400

In DC, can someone receive both SSI and SSDI at the same time?

Yes. Some people receive both if their SSDI payment is low enough to also qualify for SSI. 

400

Does having a pending ERAP application stop an eviction in DC?

Yes, it can pause or delay eviction proceedings while assistance is reviewed.

500

What types of relationships can qualify someone to request a TPO or CPO in Washington, DC?

People who have a domestic relationship, such as current or former partners, spouses, family members, or someone they share a child with.

500

In DC, can child support be ordered if the noncustodial parent is unemployed?

DC can impute income and order child support based on earning capacity, not just current employment.

500

Can custody orders in DC be modified after they are issued?

Yes, if there is a substantial change in circumstances

500

In DC, which benefit is most likely to be affected if a recipient gets a lump-sum payment, such as a settlement or back pay?

SSI, because it has strict income and asset limits.

500

What is the only legal way a landlord can remove a tenant in DC after winning an eviction case?

Through a court-ordered eviction carried out by the U.S. Marshals Service.

M
e
n
u