Annual Financial Report (AFR)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of the Annual Financial Report?
The AFR is used to ensure accurate, standardized financial reporting across the courts and to meet statutory or agency reporting requirements.
Who is required to complete the AFR?
All active Associate and Senior Judges of the District of Columbia Courts must file an Annual Financial Report for any calendar year in which they performed their duties – even if only for one day during that calendar year.
What is the reporting period for the AFR?
The AFR covers financial activities within a specific fiscal or calendar year. Exact dates will be provided in the launch materials.
When is the AFR due?
The AFR is due by the first Monday in June following the reporting year. Filing early is strongly encouraged.
How do I submit my AFR?
All AFRs must be submitted electronically using the link provided by the Commission. Paper filings are no longer accepted.
Is there a specific format or system I must use to submit information?
Yes. Instructions and links to the system or forms will be provided at launch. Training or quick‑reference materials may also be included.
Can staff assist with data entry or preparation?
Judges may receive administrative support depending on court policy. Clarifying guidance about roles and responsibilities will be included in the launch.
Will CJDT provide training or support during the reporting period?
Yes. Support resources will be available help by email, phone, or reference guides.
What happens if corrections are needed after submission?
For amending previously submitted AFR data, requests should be submitted to [email protected].
Who should I contact with questions?
All questions or concerns should be submitted to [email protected].
Can I request an extension?
Yes. Extension requests must be in writing before the deadline, stating the number of days requested and the reason for the delay. Send your request to [email protected].
What types of financial information must I report?
Judicial income, spousal judicial income, and non-investment income above reporting thresholds must be disclosed.
What investment information must be reported?
Judges must report all investment assets, value codes, and income over $200 from those assets with specific identification of each asset.
What liabilities must be reported?
Any liability of $10,000 or more held individually or jointly during the reporting period must be listed.
What qualifies as a reportable gift?
Gifts aggregating more than $250 from a single source must be reported, excluding gifts from spouses, children, or parents.
What travel reimbursements must be reported?
All reimbursements over $250 from non-U.S. Government sources must be reported with source, dates, purpose, and items covered.
What are waivers and partial waivers?
Judges must report all waivers and partial waivers of fees or charges, regardless of the amount or sponsoring organization.
What business or charitable affiliations must be disclosed?
Judges must report the name, address, and nature of organizations where they served as officer, director, proprietor, or partner.
Must honoraria be reported?
Yes. Honoraria of $250 or more received by a judge or spouse must be disclosed.
How do I request redaction of sensitive information?
Judges may request redaction by submitting a written request to [email protected] identifying the information and explaining the security concern.
When are AFRs available to the public?
AFRs are not automatically made public. However, they are subject to public release, upon request, after all reports for the calendar year have been filed and accepted by the Commission. If a particular judge’s report is requested, the Commission will contact that judge in advance to let them know.