District Of Columbia § 23-501(Perm) - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 23-501(Perm) — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23-501(Perm). Definitions.
23-501(Perm)*NOTE: This codification is the most current, due to recent law changes. To see the current law (including emergency and temporary legislation, if relevant) click this link: *
As used in subchapters II, IV, and V of this chapter —
The term “judicial officer” means a judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia or of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, or a United States commissioner or magistrate for the District of Columbia.
The term “law enforcement officer” means an officer or member of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, or of any other police force operating in the District of Columbia; an investigative officer or agent of the United States; animal control officer employed by the District of Columbia employees of the Office of the Inspector General charged with conducting an investigation of an alleged felony and consistent with the authority granted under ; or the Fire Marshal and any member of the Fire and Arson Investigation Unit of the Fire Prevention Bureau of the Fire Department of the District of Columbia, for the purpose of enforcing arson and the fire safety laws of the District of Columbia, who is so designated in writing by the Fire Chief.
The term “prosecutor” means the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia or his assistant, the Corporation Counsel of the District of Columbia [Attorney General for the District of Columbia] or his assistant, or an attorney employed by, and who has entered an appearance on behalf of, the United States or the District of Columbia in a criminal case or in an investigation being conducted by a grand jury.
“Field arrest” means a non-custodial arrest made pursuant to that requires the person to appear within 15 days before an official of the relevant law enforcement agency to complete the arrest process.
“Release on citation” means the process by which a person arrested for eligible misdemeanors may be released on his or her promise to appear at a future date in court, or at some other designated place.
“Releasing official” shall have the same meaning as provided in .
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 23-501(Perm)
What does D.C. Code § 23-501(Perm) cover?
Section 23-501(Perm) ("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 § 23-501(Perm)?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 23-501(Perm)" (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 § 23-501(Perm) 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.