The Maryland Court Self-Help Center in Frederick is set to open its doors with a grand opening ceremony on Friday, October 5. The event will be held at the Frederick County Courthouse and marks the establishment of the first self-help center in Maryland offering free legal advice for civil matters in both district and circuit courts.
The center aims to assist unrepresented litigants involved in various civil cases such as family law, landlord-tenant disputes, domestic violence issues, foreclosure, small claims, debt collection, and expungement. Attorneys will be available on-site to provide guidance and information.
Key figures attending the ceremony include Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera of the Court of Appeals of Maryland, Chief Judge John P. Morrissey from the District Court of Maryland, Frederick County Circuit Judge Julie R. Stevenson Solt who serves as County Administrative Judge, and Wilhelm H. Joseph Jr., Executive Director of Maryland Legal Aid.
The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. Attendees are advised to contact the Maryland Judiciary’s Government Relations and Public Affairs Division if they plan to attend or have inquiries about the event. Permission must be obtained for camera use during the event, and consent should be sought from individuals being photographed.