District Of Columbia § 16-831.01 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 16-831.01 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-831.01. Definitions.
16-831.01For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“De facto parent” means an individual:
Who:
Lived with the child in the same household at the time of the child’s birth or adoption by the child’s parent;
Has taken on full and permanent responsibilities as the child’s parent; and
Has held himself or herself out as the child’s parent with the agreement of the child’s parent or, if there are 2 parents, both parents; or
Who:
Has lived with the child in the same household for at least 10 of the 12 months immediately preceding the filing of the complaint or motion for custody;
Has formed a strong emotional bond with the child with the encouragement and intent of the child’s parent that a parent-child relationship form between the child and the third party;
Has taken on full and permanent responsibilities as the child’s parent; and
Has held himself or herself out as the child’s parent with the agreement of the child’s parent, or if there are 2 parents, both parents.
“Intrafamily offense” shall have the same meaning as provided in .
“Legal custody” means legal responsibility for a child, including the right to:
Make decisions regarding the child’s health, education, and general welfare;
Access the child’s educational, medical, psychological, dental, or other records; and
Speak with and obtain information regarding the child from school officials, health care providers, counselors, or other persons interacting with the child.
“Physical custody” means a child’s living arrangements. The term “physical custody” includes a child’s residency or visitation schedule.
“Third party” means a person other than the child’s parent or de facto parent.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 16-831.01
What does D.C. Code § 16-831.01 cover?
Section 16-831.01 ("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 § 16-831.01?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 16-831.01" (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 § 16-831.01 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.