The Maryland Judiciary is set to enter Phase V of its COVID-19 emergency reopening plan. Starting Monday, April 26, 2021, all courts across Maryland will be fully operational and resume jury trials for both criminal and civil cases in circuit courts statewide.
Circuit administrative judges are offering media interviews and a tour of the safety measures implemented at courthouses. These precautions aim to protect jurors, the public, judges, and Judiciary staff from COVID-19. Interviews require appointments through the Judiciary’s Government Relations and Public Affairs office.
According to the Seventh Administrative Order Clarifying COVID-19 Health Measures in Courthouses and Judicial Branch Facilities, everyone entering a courthouse must wear a mask or face covering, answer a questionnaire about COVID-19 symptoms, and undergo a contactless temperature check.
Since March 15, 2021, Maryland’s circuit courts and the District Court have been in Phase IV of reopening. This phase included non-jury trials and contested hearings for civil, family, and juvenile cases.
Maryland circuit administrative judges are available for interviews from Thursday, April 8 to Friday, April 23. The tour will showcase new personal protective equipment precautions at local courthouses.