Today, the Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera issued an administrative order that clarifies COVID-19 health measures in courthouses and judicial branch facilities. This order includes new requirements for wearing face masks inside these locations.
“As we move forward, with caution and care, into Phase III of the phased resumption of operations, we must take the measures that have proven to be effective in mitigating the risk of exposure to COVID-19,” said Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera. “Those who come to or work in Maryland’s courthouses deserve no less, even as we do the essential work of providing the people of Maryland with greater access to justice.”
On July 20, courts across Maryland transitioned into Phase III of the Judiciary’s five-phase reopening plan. As part of this phase, clerks’ offices in both the District Court of Maryland and circuit courts throughout the state are now open, allowing for additional matters to be heard.
The Maryland Judiciary is planning to advance to Phase IV on August 31, 2020. This progression is contingent upon prevailing COVID-19 conditions. Phase IV will see further expansion of court operations, including non-jury trials and other contested matters in both the District Court of Maryland and circuit courts.