Local Rule RULE 1002–1: Commencing a Bankruptcy Case
Bankr. D.D.C. — General rule
RULE 1002–1 Commencing a Bankruptcy Case
(a) Generally. Except as set forth in subsection (b) below, the Clerk must accept for filing any petition. If a petition is not signed by either the petitioner or an attorney, a signed document must be filed within three (3) days or the petition may be dismissed. The three (3) day period commences for mailed notices three (3) days after the notice is mailed and for electronic notices when the electronic notice is served. The Clerk shall notify the party of the deficiency.
(b) In-Person Filing. If an unsigned petition is filed in-person with the Clerk's office and the filer does not immediately cure the deficiency, then the Clerk may reject the unsigned petition.
(c) Dismissal. The Court may dismiss a petition without a hearing, issue a show cause order for why the case should not be dismissed, or take other action if a petition is submitted by a debtor who is not an individual and is not represented by an attorney (1) who is admitted or authorized to practice before this Court under Local Bankruptcy Rule 2090–1; or (2) who has filed a motion for pro hac vice admission under Local Bankruptcy Rule 2090–1(b) contemporaneously with the petition.