District Of Columbia § 16-401 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 16-401 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-401. Definitions.
16-401For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“Artificial insemination” means the process by which a man’s fresh or frozen sperm sample is introduced into a woman’s vagina, other than by sexual intercourse, under the supervision of a physician.
“District” means the District of Columbia.
“In vitro fertilization” means a procedure in which an ovum is surgically removed from a genetic mother’s ovary and fertilized with the sperm of the genetic father in a laboratory procedure, with the resulting embryo implanted in the uterus of a birth mother.
“Surrogate parenting contract” means any agreement, oral or written, in which:
A woman agrees either to be artificially inseminated with the sperm of a man who is not her husband, or to be impregnated with an embryo that is the product of an ovum fertilization with the sperm of a man who is not her husband; and
A woman agrees to, or intends to, relinquish all parental rights and responsibilities and to consent to the adoption of a child born as a result of insemination or in vitro fertilization as provided in this chapter.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 16-401
What does D.C. Code § 16-401 cover?
Section 16-401 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 16-401?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 16-401" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 16-401 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.