Members of the Maryland Judiciary, alongside representatives from Maryland Legal Aid and the Maryland Center for Legal Assistance, gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the new District Court Help Center in Rockville. Although operational since July 1, the official ribbon-cutting was postponed due to COVID-19 concerns.
"Maryland Court Help Center services are a core function of our state’s civil justice system," stated Chief Judge Joseph M. Getty of the Court of Appeals of Maryland. He emphasized that "Maryland is a national leader in access to justice," noting its high ranking on the Justice Index for adopting best practices in civil access to justice.
The help center, located on the second floor of Rockville's District Court, has assisted over 1,700 litigants since its opening. Chief Judge John P. Morrissey highlighted that "individuals often go without representation in high-stakes civil matters including divorce, child custody, and landlord-tenant matters." In fiscal year 2021 alone, Maryland Court Help Centers provided over 147,000 instances of service to unrepresented litigants.
Landlord and tenant issues account for 40% of cases at the center, with peace and protective orders and small claims making up 16% and 15%, respectively. The center also serves many with limited English proficiency; Spanish speakers comprise about 22% of those served.
Wilhelm H. Joseph Jr., Executive Director of Maryland Legal Aid, commended the judiciary: "Kudos to the Maryland Judiciary for taking another step in increasing access to justice in Maryland."
Nicolle Katrivanos, Supervising Attorney at Rockville District Court Help Center, reiterated their commitment: "We are aware of the unique challenges that non-English speaking community members face... We are privileged and thankful for the opportunity to serve."
The judiciary also operates a statewide center offering remote assistance via phone, live chat, and email during weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 8 p.m., while attorneys are available at Rockville during court hours from Monday through Friday.