D.C. Code § 29-602.02: Formation of partnership.

(a)

Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, the association of 2 or more persons to carry on as co-owners of a business for profit shall form a partnership, whether or not the persons intend to form a partnership.

(b)

An association formed under a statute other than this chapter, a predecessor statute, or a comparable statute of another jurisdiction shall not be a partnership under this chapter.

(c)

In determining whether a partnership is formed, the following rules shall apply:

(1)

Joint tenancy, tenancy in common, tenancy by the entireties, joint property, common property, or part ownership shall not by itself establish a partnership, even if the co-owners share profits made by the use of the property.

(2)

The sharing of gross returns shall not by itself establish a partnership, even if the persons sharing them have a joint or common right or interest in property from which the returns are derived.

(3)

A person that receives a share of the profits of a business shall be presumed to be a partner in the business, unless the profits were received in payment:

(A)

Of a debt by installments or otherwise;

(B)

For services as an independent contractor or of wages or other compensation to an employee;

(C)

Of rent;

(D)

Of an annuity or other retirement or health benefit to a beneficiary, representative, or designee of a deceased or retired partner;

(E)

Of interest or other charge on a loan, even if the amount of payment varies with the profits of the business, including a direct or indirect present or future ownership of the collateral, or rights to income, proceeds, or increase in value derived from the collateral; or

(F)

For the sale of the goodwill of a business or other property by installments or otherwise.