District Of Columbia § 5-1401 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 5-1401 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-1401. Definitions.
5-1401For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“District” means the District of Columbia.
“Legal custody” includes imprisonment, jail, or detention.
“Ward” means any person in the official custody of the District government, on a temporary or permanent basis, because of neglect, abuse, mental illness or intellectual disability.
Annotations
Autopsies of Deceased Consumers of the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Administration, see Mayor’s Order 2006-123, September 28, 2006 ( 53 DCR 9314).
Autopsies of Deceased Clients of the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disability Administration, see Mayor’s Order 2004-76, May 13, 2004 ( 51 DCR 5278).
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 5-1401
What does D.C. Code § 5-1401 cover?
Section 5-1401 ("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 § 5-1401?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 5-1401" (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 § 5-1401 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.