Last Updated: Thursday, September 8, 2021

The spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to impact the daily operation of the Maryland Judiciary. Maryland’s courts are now in Phase V of the progressive reopening plan. Visit the local court page for the latest information on hours of operation BEFORE arriving to court.

PLEASE NOTE: On Monday, April 26, 2021, the Maryland Judiciary began Phase V of the its COVID-19 five-phased progressive resumption of operations plan. During Phase V courts have resumed full operations, including jury trials. During Phase V courts continue to require social distancing and health measures.

The Court of Appeals and Court of Special Appeals continue to be fully operational in Phase V, with both appellate courts hearing all matters within their jurisdiction. Oral arguments scheduled in the Court of Appeals and the Court of Special Appeals will be heard remotely, pending any further orders of the chief judges of the two appellate courts for the resumption of in-person arguments.

Phase V of the Judiciary’s phased resumption of operations will be implemented as outlined in the Third Amended Administrative Order Expanding Statewide Judiciary Operations In Light of the COVID-19 Emergency. In addition, per the Ninth Administrative Order Clarifying COVID-19 Health Measures in Courthouses and Judicial Branch Facilities, masks are required to be worn by all (except children aged 2 and under), regardless of vaccination status, in state courthouses and judicial facilities located in any Maryland county, or Baltimore City, where there is a COVID-19 community transmission rating by the CDC of “substantial” or “high” on any day after August 6, 2021. Additionally, masks shall be required in state courthouses and judicial facilities for a fourteen-day stabilization period upon a return from “high” or “substantial” to “moderate” or “low” transmission levels.

The Judiciary is closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation and evaluating its ongoing response to this public health emergency. Some courts will continue using technology for remote proceedings, either by video or telephone, but please note that this will vary by court location. The general public, members of the media, and attorneys should reference the COVID-19 webpages for the latest information on individual court operations. Court closings related to coronavirus.

Additionally, the courts are requiring any individual, including employees, seeking access to a courthouse or court office location to:

  • Answer a set of screening questions;
  • Be subject to temperature checks;
  • Wear a facial covering or mask; and
  • Practice social distancing.

The Maryland courts started implementing the reopening plan on June 5, 2020. 

 

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