Baltimore County has become the latest jurisdiction to implement the Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) case management system, which aims to streamline court processes and facilitate case filing for litigants. As of Tuesday, electronic filing is now mandatory for attorneys representing clients in civil and criminal cases in district and circuit courts, as well as any appellate filings originating in the county. Self-represented litigants still have the option to file electronically.
"Baltimore County courts have much to be proud of," stated Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera. She praised the judges and staff for their preparation efforts, noting that "the transition to the new system has been seamless."
The introduction of MDEC in Baltimore County means that over 87 percent of Maryland jurisdictions are now using this electronic system. The Judiciary aims to implement MDEC across all state courts by 2021.
District Court of Maryland Chief Judge John P. Morrissey highlighted the coordinated effort required to launch the system while maintaining daily operations. He emphasized that judges, court leadership, and staff have undergone extensive training as part of this initiative.
Circuit Administrative Judge Kathleen Gallogly Cox expressed optimism about this technological advancement, stating it makes court processes more accessible and responsive for public benefit.
Maryland attorneys began e-filing in October 2014 with a pilot program in Anne Arundel County. District Administrative Judge Dorothy J. Wilson noted Baltimore County's excitement about joining other jurisdictions in adopting MDEC.
As of February 19th, MDEC is active in multiple counties including Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, Kent, Queen Anne’s Somerset St Mary’s Talbot Washington Wicomico Worcester Montgomery County courts are scheduled to launch MDEC in November 2019.