Effective Immediately:
Changes to PDS Record Sealing Services

Due to resource constraints, PDS is temporarily suspending record sealing consultations through December 31, 2020.  We will assess our resources at the beginning of 2021 to determine when and how we can resume record sealing consultations.

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PDS Duty Day Program

Do you need legal advice or assistance?  We offer the PDS Duty Day Program.  This telephone service (walk-in services are currently suspended due to the Coronavirus pandemic) can help you with the following legal and collateral matters:

  • Responding to an outstanding arrest warrant

  • Providing representation in grand jury matters

  • Assisting persons preparing for reentry into their community

  • Assisting persons preparing for confinement

  • Responding to questions about involuntary and civil commitment

  • Recommending mental health and immigration services in D.C.

  • Recommending free and low cost social programs and services 

At times, Duty Day matters can result in trials and complex appellate litigation. 

When we cannot provide assistance, outside service referrals will be recommended.

This program also assists D.C. Bar members with legal and social service questions to support their clients. 

PDS Duty Day Call-In Hours of Operation

Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia (PDS)

633 Indiana Avenue, N.W.
2nd Floor Reception Area
Washington, D.C.  20004
Tel: (202) 628-1200

Hours of Operation:  Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (excluding federal and District holidays)

PDS’s Community Defender Division (CDD)

1442 Pennsylvania Avenue, S.E.
2nd Floor
Washington, D.C.  20003
Tel: (202) 824-2801

Call-in Hours:  Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (excluding federal and District holidays), or call for an appointment.