MSBA continues to connect with the Maryland Judiciary and local jurisdictions to bring important information and updates to the legal profession. Here’s what you need to know as we move into Phase 3 of the Maryland Judiciary’s reopening plan on Monday, July 20, pursuant to the June 3rd Amended Administrative Order.
Phase 3 of Reopening
Beginning on Monday, July 20, court clerks’ offices will reopen and courts will hear additional matters, including some contested matters. Courts will continue to use technology for remote proceedings, with variations by court location. Domestic violence peace and protective orders will return to court hearings during normal courts orders. All individuals seeking access to courthouses must answer screening questions, take a temperature check, wear a mask, and practice social distancing.
As practices vary by jurisdiction and may change due to local conditions, please be sure to check the Judiciary’s website and District Court web pages, or contact the local clerks’ offices for up-to-date information regarding courthouses and dockets. Further information from the Judiciary regarding Phase 3 is available here.
The Judiciary plans to move to Phase 4 on August 31, 2020, with a planned expansion to include non-jury trials and other contested matters.
Local Court Covid-19 Plans and Phase 3 Updates
Anne Arundel County Circuit Court
Baltimore County Circuit Court
Montgomery County Circuit Court
Montgomery County Online Services (offered on July 20)
Prince George’s County Circuit Court
Prince George’s County Advisory on Soft Reopening
For additional updates about District and Circuit Courts, click here.
Message from Chief Judge Barbera
This week, Chief Judge Barbera spoke about the next phase of courts’ reopening and the emphasis on keeping legal professionals, court staff, and members of the public safe while doing so.
District Court Messaging Regarding Landlord/Tenant Actions and CARES Act Information Related to Phase 3 of Reopening
Beginning Monday, July 20, the District Courts’ procedures for handling landlord/tenant case types will change, and additional actions such as rent escrow actions, tenant holding over actions, breach of lease actions, and wrongful detainer actions will be heard. The stay for residential evictions is lifted effective July 25, 2020. Click here for a message from Chief Judge Morrissey regarding these important changes in the District Court.
District Court Messaging Regarding Affidavit Judgments
Beginning Monday, July 20, the District Courts may begin processing and scheduling civil cases for affidavit judgment. Click here for details on new filing and hearing procedures.
As you enter Phase 3 of Reopening, MSBA will continue to communicate important updates to you. Please reach us at feedback@msba.org with any questions or concerns, or just to let us know how you are doing. We are here to support all of you. Thanks for being a part of the MSBA.