Prerequisites for order of publication

D.C. Code § 13-338, under Service of Process; Legal Representatives..

D.C. Code § 13-338

An order for the substitution of publication for personal service may not be made until: (a)(1) A summons for the defendant has been issued and returned "not to be found"; and (2) The plaintiff proves by affidavit to the satisfaction of the court: (A) The nonresidence of the defendant or his or her absence for at least 6 months; or (B) Diligent efforts to find the defendant or that the defendant seeks to avoid service of process by concealment.