How do I reschedule my hearing? 

Landlords and tenants may request a continuance whenever a conflict arises with their schedule and a court hearing. To reschedule the initial hearing the “Application to Continue Initial Hearing” can be filed. To reschedule all other court events, for example: a Bell hearing; mediation; a trial, the “Motion to Continue Hearing” can be filed.  

Until the parties have an order from the court rescheduling the hearing, the original time and date of the hearing will stand. Parties may reach out to each other to see if the other side will consent to a continuance. 

Parties may request an emergency continuance by calling the landlord and tenant clerk’s office at 202-879-4879. The judge will then decide whether or not to grant the request for a continuance at the hearing.  

Parties may also designate someone to attend a hearing on their behalf to request a continuance because they cannot attend. The judge will decide whether or not to grant the request for a continuance.  

You may use any or all of these methods to request a continuance. To verify whether or not the continuance was granted, parties may call the clerk or check the docket via Superior Court case search.  

Finding Legal Help

Call the Landlord Tenant Legal Assistance Network:

202-780-2575

Open 9am to 4pm Monday through Thursday, and 9am to 1pm Fridays

Visit the Landlord Tenant Resource Center
District of Columbia Superior Court Building B, Room 223
510 4th Street, N.W.
Open Tuesdays, from 10am to 1pm (or when at maximum capacity)