Blank Domestic Information Report Template

The Domestic Information Report form is an essential document that must be completed and submitted when filing a civil domestic case. It provides critical information about the parties involved, the nature of the case, and any special requirements that may apply. Ensuring this form is accurately filled out helps streamline the court process.

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Blank Domestic Information Report Template

Article Guide

When embarking on a civil domestic case, understanding the Domestic Information Report form is crucial for navigating the legal landscape. This form is not merely a piece of paperwork; it serves as a foundational document that must accompany the complaint filed with the Clerk of Court, unless exempted by the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. Both the plaintiff and defendant are required to complete and submit specific details, such as names, contact information, and whether they are represented by an attorney. They must also disclose if there are related cases pending. The form provides various checkboxes to classify the case type and issues at hand, covering topics like custody, child support, and divorce. Additionally, parties can indicate any special needs, such as requiring an interpreter or accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Furthermore, the report addresses whether the case may be suitable for alternative dispute resolution, promoting an amicable resolution where possible. Ultimately, filling out this form correctly is pivotal in ensuring that the court has all the necessary information to facilitate the case efficiently and effectively.

Form Sample

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR

(City or County)

CIVIL - DOMESTIC CASE INFORMATION REPORT

DIRECTIONS

Plaintiff: This Information Report must be completed and attached to the complaint filed with the Clerk of Court unless your case is exempted from the requirement by the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals pursuant to Rule 2-111(a).

Defendant: You must file an Information Report as required by Rule 2-323(h).

THIS INFORMATION REPORT CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AS A PLEADING

FORM FILED BY:

PLAINTIFF

DEFENDANT CASE NUMBER

CASE NAME:

(Clerk to insert)

Plaintiff

vs.

Defendant

PARTY'S NAME:

PHONE:

PARTY'S ADDRESS:

PARTY'S E-MAIL:

If represented by an attorney:

PARTY'S ATTORNEY'S NAME:

PHONE:

PARTY'S ATTORNEY'S ADDRESS:

PARTY'S ATTORNEY'S E-MAIL:

I am not represented by an attorney

RELATED CASE PENDING?

Yes

No If yes, Case #(s), if known:

PLEADING TYPE

New Case:

Original

Existing Case:

Post-Judgment

Amendment

If filing in an existing case, skip Case Category/ Subcategory section - go to Issues section.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Spoken Language Interpreter - Attach form CC-DC-041

If you require an accommodation for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act - Attach form CC-DC-049

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION INFORMATION

Is this case appropriate for referral to an ADR process under Md. Rule 17-101? (Check all that apply)

A. Mediation

Yes

C. Settlement Conference

Yes

B. Arbitration

Yes

D. Neutral Evaluation

Yes

If no, explain why:

IF NEW CASE: CASE CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY (Check one box.)

Domestic Family

Agency/IV-D

Change of Name

Independent Proceedings

Alimony/Spousal Support

Annulment

Child Support

Change of Name

Amend Birth Certificate

Breach

Paternity/Parentage

Adult

Change of Sex

Child Support - Private

UIFSA

Minor

Correct Death Certificate

Custody

Adoption

Declare Deceased

Divorce

Dispose Body

Adoption - Independent

Emancipation

Amend Marriage Certificate

Enforce Foreign Order

Adoption - Private Agency

Family Legal/Medical

Guardianship

Paternity/Parentage

Guardianship of Adult Person and/or Property

Recognition as Legal Child

Guardianship of Minor Person and/or Property

Visitation

CC-DCM-001 (Rev. 07/2021)

Page 1 of 2

IF NEW OR EXISTING CASE: ISSUES (Check All that Apply)

	Adoption	Change of Name
	Alimony/Spousal Support	Adult
	Permanent	Minor
	Rehabilitative	Change of Sex
	Rehabilitative	Child Support
	Amend Birth Certificate	Child Support
	Amend Death Certificate	Contempt
	Amend Marriage Certificate	Court Costs/Fees
	Annulment	Custody
	Asset Determination	Declare Deceased
	Change of Name	Dispose Body
	Adult	Divorce - Absolute
	Minor	Divorce - Absolute
	Minor	Divorce - Limited
		Divorce - Limited

Earnings Withholding		Pension Distribution

Emancipation		Property Distribution

Enforcement		Protective Order

Exceptions		Register Foreign Order


Family Legal/Medical		Restore Former Name


Gdnshp of Adult		Termination of Gdnshp

	Person	Transaction Review

	Property	Use and Possession


Gdnshp of Minor		Visitation


	Person

Property

Paternity/Parentage

ESTIMATED LENGTH OF HEARING

(Case will be tracked accordingly.)

Time estimate for a Merits Hearing:

Hours

Days

Time estimate for hearing other than a Merits Hearing:

Hours

Days

OTHER MATTERS

IS THIS CASE CONTESTED?

Yes

No If yes, which issues appear to be contested?

Ground for divorce

Child Custody

Visitation

Child Support

Alimony

Permanent

Rehabilitative

Use and possession of family home and property

Marital property issues involving:

Valuation of business

Pensions

Bank accounts/IRA's

Real Property

Other:

Paternity

Adoption/termination of parental rights

Other:

Request is made for:

Initial Order

Modification

Contempt

Absolute Divorce

Limited Divorce

For non-custody/visitation issues, do you intend to request:

Court-appointed expert (name field)

Initial conference with the Court

Mediation by a Court-sponsored settlement program

Other:

For custody/visitation issues, do you intend to request:

Mediation by a private mediator

Appointment of counsel to represent child

Evaluation by mental health professional

(not just to waive psychiatric privilege)

Other Evaluation

A conference with the Court

Is there an allegation of physical or sexual abuse of party or child?

Yes

Date		Signature of Counsel / Party
Address		Printed Name
City	State	Zip Code
CC-DCM-001 (Rev. 07/2021)		Page 2 of 2

Attorney Number

Reset

⇩ PDF

Document Specifications

Fact Name	Details
Purpose	The Domestic Information Report form is used to gather essential information about the parties involved in a domestic case, facilitating streamlined processing in court.
Required Submission	Plaintiffs must attach this report to their complaint when filed with the Clerk of Court, unless exempted by specific court rulings under Rule 2-111(a).
Defendant's Obligation	Defendants are required to submit the form in compliance with Rule 2-323(h) to ensure complete information is available for the case.
Language and Accessibility	The report includes provisions for individuals needing accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring equal access to the judicial process.
Governing Law	This form is governed by the Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rules 2-111(a) and 2-323(h).

Steps to Filling Out Domestic Information Report

Before proceeding to file the Domestic Information Report, ensure you have all required details about the parties involved and the nature of the case. This report is necessary for the court's processing and tracking of domestic cases. Follow the steps below for accurate completion.

Begin by entering the name of the Circuit Court where the case will be filed, specifying the City or County.
Identify the Plaintiff and Defendant roles in the case, noting that one of them must file the report.
Insert the Case Number and Case Name as provided by the court clerk.
Fill in the PARTY'S NAME, PHONE, ADDRESS, and E-MAIL of the person filing.
If represented by an attorney, include the PARTY'S ATTORNEY'S NAME, PHONE, ADDRESS, and E-MAIL.
Indicate if you are not represented by an attorney by checking the appropriate box.
Answer the question regarding whether there is a RELATED CASE PENDING. If yes, provide the case number(s).
Select the PLEADING TYPE that best fits your case.
If this is a new case, complete the CASE CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY section by checking the appropriate box.
Complete the ISSUES section by checking all relevant issues related to the case.
Estimate the LENGTH OF HEARING by providing the expected hours or days for both merits and other types of hearings.
Indicate if the case is CONTESTED and specify which issues are contested if applicable.
Check the appropriate REQUEST you are making, whether for an order or modification.
For non-custody/visitation issues, specify additional requests if necessary, such as mediation or expert evaluations.
For custody/visitation issues, indicate any requests you intend to make related to mediation or appointments.
Answer if there are allegations of physical or sexual abuse of a party or child.
Lastly, provide your signature, printed name, and address, along with the date.

More About Domestic Information Report

What is the Domestic Information Report form used for?

The Domestic Information Report form serves as an essential document in civil domestic cases filed in Circuit Court. It collects vital information about the parties involved, including their contact details and the nature of the case. This form must be completed by the plaintiff and attached to their complaint. The defendant is also required to submit this form, ensuring that the court has comprehensive details about both parties. Having this information facilitates the court's processing of the case and helps ensure that all parties are appropriately represented throughout the legal process.

Who is required to submit the Domestic Information Report?

Both the plaintiff and the defendant in a civil domestic case are required to complete and submit the Domestic Information Report. The plaintiff must attach it to their initial complaint filed with the Clerk of Court. Similarly, the defendant must file their own report as per court guidelines. It’s important to note that if the case is exempt from this requirement, the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals will make that determination, ensuring that all legal protocols are followed appropriately.

What information must be included in the Domestic Information Report?

The report requests specific details from both parties. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and attorney information if they have legal representation. Additionally, it seeks to categorize the type of case being presented—such as child support, divorce, or custody issues—and any outstanding matters that might arise during litigation. If there are issues related to domestic violence or other complications, these should also be noted. This comprehensive information assists the court in understanding the context of the case right from the start.

What happens if I don't submit the Domestic Information Report?

Failing to submit the Domestic Information Report can complicate your case significantly. Courts typically require this document to proceed with your filing. Without it, your complaint may be delayed or even rejected. Ensuring the report is completed and filed on time is crucial for maintaining the court’s schedule and upholding your rights within the legal framework. Always strive to comply with this requirement to avoid any unnecessary setbacks in your case.

Common mistakes

Omitting Required Sections: Failing to complete all sections of the Domestic Information Report form can lead to rejection. Each part is essential for the court's understanding of the case.
Incorrect Contact Information: Providing inaccurate phone numbers or email addresses can hinder communications with the court. Always double-check this information before submission.
Not Checking for Related Cases: Ignoring the section regarding related cases can cause complications. If there are existing cases, the court needs to know the case number to process the matter appropriately.
Misunderstanding Case Classification: Selecting the incorrect category or subcategory for the case can delay proceedings. Carefully read the definitions and examples provided.
Failure to Address Alternative Dispute Resolution: Not indicating whether the case is suitable for mediation or other forms of resolution can lead to missed opportunities for settlement before trial.
Neglecting Special Requirements: Overlooking the need for an interpreter or accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act can result in a lack of necessary support during the proceedings.
Inaccurate Estimated Length of Hearing: Misstating how long hearings will last can mislead the court. Providing a realistic estimate helps ensure proper scheduling and resource allocation.

Documents used along the form

The Domestic Information Report form is an essential document when navigating civil domestic cases. In addition to this report, several other forms and documents are commonly utilized to ensure a smooth and comprehensive legal process. Below is a list of these associated documents.

Complaint Form: This document initiates the legal action. It outlines the plaintiff's case against the defendant, specifying the claims being made and the relief sought.
Answer Form: The defendant uses this form to respond to the allegations in the Complaint. This document may admit to, deny, or plead ignorance of the claims made by the plaintiff.
Motion for Temporary Relief: This form requests immediate court orders, such as child custody, support payments, or protection orders, while the main legal case is pending.
Financial Disclosure Form: Required in many domestic cases, this form provides a detailed overview of each party's financial situation. It assists the court in making equitable decisions regarding support and asset division.

Understanding the functions of these documents can facilitate a clearer path through the legal process. Each form plays a distinct role in outlining claims, responses, and requests, ultimately aiding the court in making informed decisions.

Similar forms

The Domestic Information Report shares similarities with the Petition for Divorce. Both documents are essential in initiating a court process related to family law matters. A Petition for Divorce outlines the grounds for the divorce and includes necessary information about parties involved, similar to the Domestic Information Report, which collects vital details about the case. Both forms require accurate and complete information to ensure the court can properly handle the case and to facilitate a smooth legal process.

Another document that aligns closely with the Domestic Information Report is the Child Custody Evaluation form. Like the Information Report, this form is focused on gathering important details relevant to the case, specifically concerning child custody arrangements. Both documents require parties to disclose significant personal information, such as addresses and contact details, which the court uses to assess the situation comprehensively. This mutual focus on obtaining essential information underscores the critical nature of these forms in family law proceedings.

The Case Information Statement is yet another document that resembles the Domestic Information Report. Similar in purpose, it serves to provide the court with foundational details regarding the case. Both forms aim to streamline the court's understanding of the parties involved and facilitate a more efficient legal process. The Case Information Statement, like the Domestic Information Report, categorizes issues and outlines relief sought, helping the court to prioritize and address the most pressing matters.

Finally, the Financial Disclosure Statement offers a parallel to the Domestic Information Report, particularly in cases involving divorce or separation. While the Domestic Information Report focuses more on the procedural aspects of the family law case, the Financial Disclosure Statement emphasizes the financial status of the parties. Both documents require honesty and transparency; they collect critical information that can significantly impact the court's decisions regarding support and property division. Together, these forms ensure that the court has a comprehensive view of both personal and financial circumstances in family law cases.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Domestic Information Report form, it's essential to approach the task carefully. Here are six important things you should and shouldn’t do:

Do attach the Information Report to your complaint.
Don't leave any required fields blank.
Do check for any specific requirements regarding your case type.
Don't submit the form without reviewing it for accuracy.
Do follow the instructions provided to ensure compliance.
Don't assume that missing information can be filled in later.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: The Domestic Information Report form is optional.

This form is mandatory for both the plaintiff and defendant in a domestic case unless specifically exempted by the Chief Judge. Failing to include it can lead to complications in the case processing.

Misconception 2: Only the plaintiff needs to file the form.

Both parties must complete and submit the Domestic Information Report. The defendant has their own obligation under the relevant rules.

Misconception 3: The form can be submitted without the required information.

Incomplete and incorrect submissions are not accepted. It’s essential to provide all necessary details to ensure proper handling of the case.

Misconception 4: The report is the same for all types of cases.

The form varies depending on whether it's a new case or an existing case. Specific sections will need to be filled based on the case circumstances.

Misconception 5: The Domestic Information Report does not impact case timelines.

This report helps the court estimate hearing times and categorize cases effectively. Accurate information can expedite the court's scheduling process.

Misconception 6: No legal help is needed to fill out the form.

While some may feel capable, seeking legal guidance can clarify any uncertainties and prevent errors that may delay or complicate the case.

Key takeaways

Here are four key takeaways regarding the Domestic Information Report form:

Mandatory Completion: Both the plaintiff and defendant must complete and submit this form to the Clerk of Court unless a specific exemption has been granted by the Chief Judge.
Accurate Information is Crucial: Ensure that all provided contact details, including phone numbers and addresses, are accurate. This helps facilitate communication throughout the case.
Specify Related Cases: If there are any related cases, it is essential to include the case numbers. This information may impact the proceedings and help the court understand the broader context.
Understanding Requirements: Be aware of any special requirements or preferences regarding alternative dispute resolution options. This could influence how the case is handled.