The Towson District courthouse in Baltimore County, Maryland, is set to reopen on October 13, 2020. Located at 120 E. Chesapeake Avenue, the courthouse had been closed for nine months due to HVAC repairs. During this period, operations were temporarily moved to the new Catonsville District courthouse. Judges and Judiciary staff will now return to the Towson building.
Meanwhile, the old Catonsville District courthouse on Walker Avenue will close permanently and relocate its services to a newly built facility at 1 Rolling Cross Road in the Rolling Cross Road Professional Park on October 19, 2020. This building move marks a significant change as the Walker Avenue property is owned by the Maryland Department of General Services.
District Court of Maryland Chief Judge John P. Morrissey commented on these transitions: “This has been an extraordinary year for judges, employees, and the public as they worked through District courthouse building moves in northern and western Baltimore County.” He added that continuous service was maintained throughout Baltimore County during these necessary repairs and relocations.
The initial plan for a six-month closure extended to nine months due to COVID-19-related delays affecting repair work completion. Signage will be placed at relevant locations to inform individuals about these changes.
According to an Administrative Order from Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera, all visitors must wear masks or face coverings and undergo health checks before entering courthouses. These precautions are aimed at ensuring safety amid ongoing pandemic concerns.
Baltimore County District Court Administrative Judge Dorothy Wilson praised those involved: “We are fortunate to have such dedicated judges and staff... Everyone has exhibited a spirit of caring and cooperation.”
Commissioner services will be limited between October 9-13 but available at Essex District Courthouse or new Catonsville location thereafter. Beginning October 13, commissioner services will resume at Towson District Court along with other essential judicial functions.
For inquiries regarding these relocations or updates on court proceedings within Baltimore County’s three district locations (Catonsville, Essex & Towson), individuals can email designated contacts provided by local authorities or visit online resources offered by Maryland Judiciary platforms including Twitter updates from @MDJudiciary.