Rule 4 Process
Rule Text
(a) HOW AND BY WHOM. Service of process must be made in compliance with D.C. Code § 16-1502 by any competent person not less than 18 years of age who is not a party to the suit. A separate copy of the summons and complaint must be provided for each defendant.
(b) PROOF OF SERVICE.
(1) In General. Proof of service of the summons and complaint must be made under oath and in the format set forth in L&T Form 3. A separate L&T Form 3 must be filed for each defendant.
(2) Photographic Proof. If a summons is served by posting and mailing, a photograph of the posted summons must be filed with proof of service. The photograph must have a readable timestamp that indicates the date and time when the summons was posted.
(3) Time for Filing. Proof of service must be filed at least 14 days before the date set for the initial hearing.
(4) Motion for Extension. Prior to the expiration of the foregoing time period, the plaintiff may make a motion to extend the time for service. The motion must set forth in detail the efforts that have been made, and will be made in the future, to obtain service. If the plaintiff shows good cause, the court must extend the time for an appropriate period.
(5) Dismissal. The plaintiff’s failure to comply with the requirements of this rule will result in the dismissal without prejudice of the complaint. The clerk will enter the dismissal and serve notice on all the parties.