The Maryland Judiciary is set to resume jury trials in both criminal and civil cases across the state on April 26, 2021. This marks the transition into Phase V of its COVID-19 progressive resumption plan. The courts will operate fully under guidelines consistent with emergency administrative orders related to COVID-19.
Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera of the Maryland Court of Appeals released a video detailing preparations for this resumption and expressed gratitude towards the public, Judiciary staff, judges, and justice partners for their patience during the pandemic. "As we resume Phase V emergency operations, which includes jury trials, the courts are again prepared to move forward," she stated. She highlighted that 88 jury trials were previously conducted without any COVID-19 transmission incidents before vaccines were available.
The same health protocols will be maintained in courthouses as per CDC guidelines. These include wearing masks, social distancing, plexiglass barriers, hand sanitizers, and cleaning protocols. "Marylanders can fulfill their civic duty to serve on a jury with the assurance that their health and safety are being safeguarded," Chief Judge Barbera added.
Under the Amended Administrative Order Expanding Statewide Judiciary Operations and the Seventh Administrative Order Clarifying COVID-19 Health Measures in Courthouses and Judicial Branch Facilities, anyone entering a courthouse must wear a mask, answer a COVID-19 questionnaire, and undergo a temperature check. These measures aim to protect all court visitors and employees during the pandemic.
An updated video titled “Jury Duty COVID-19 Safety Precautions” shows sanitation efforts by the courts before jurors enter buildings. It highlights modifications made in assembly rooms, deliberation rooms, and courtrooms following health guidelines. Plexiglass shields have been installed to minimize virus transmission risks.
Jurors should be aware that conditions may vary by jurisdiction due to different circuit court layouts. For more information or questions about jury service accommodations, individuals are encouraged to contact local jury offices.
This step aligns Maryland with other states resuming jury trials amid ongoing health concerns. More details about court operations during COVID-19 can be found at https://mdcourts.gov/coronavirusinformationforpublic.