District Of Columbia § 21-2402.06 - Appropriate forum.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 21-2402.06 — Appropriate forum., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-2402.06. Appropriate forum.
21-2402.06Even if the Superior Court has jurisdiction under to appoint a guardian or issue a protective order, the court may decline to exercise its jurisdiction if it determines at any time that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum.
If the Superior Court declines to exercise its jurisdiction under subsection (a) of this section, it shall either dismiss or stay the proceeding. The court may impose any condition the court considers just and proper, including the condition that a petition for the appointment of a guardian or issuance of a protective order be filed promptly in another state.
In determining whether it is an appropriate forum, the Superior Court shall consider all relevant factors, including:
Any expressed preference of the respondent;
Whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the respondent has occurred or is likely to occur and which state could best protect the respondent from the abuse, neglect, or exploitation;
The length of time the respondent was physically present in or was a legal resident of this or another state;
The distance of the respondent from the court in each state;
The financial circumstances of the respondent’s estate;
The nature and location of the evidence;
The ability of the court in each state to decide the issue expeditiously and the procedures necessary to present evidence;
The familiarity of the court of each state with the facts and issues in the proceeding; and
If an appointment were made, the court’s ability to monitor the conduct of the guardian or conservator.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 21-2402.06
What does D.C. Code § 21-2402.06 cover?
Section 21-2402.06 ("Appropriate forum.") 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 § 21-2402.06?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 21-2402.06" (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 § 21-2402.06 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.