The Maryland Judiciary will resume jury trials in criminal and civil cases statewide starting March 7, 2022. This decision marks a return to Phase V of the judiciary's five-phased plan for resuming operations, as announced by Court of Appeals Chief Judge Joseph M. Getty.
"Due to the decline in COVID-19 cases according to the state’s health metrics, we embrace the opportunity to resume full judicial operations," stated Chief Judge Getty. He emphasized that while jury trials are set to restart, the health and safety of all participants remain a priority. Individuals with inquiries or needing accommodations are advised to contact their local circuit court.
Under the new guidelines, wearing masks is optional, and entrance screenings are no longer mandatory. However, local conditions may necessitate specific health measures within courthouses if indicated by local health mandates. In such instances, administrative judges from both circuit courts and district courts in each county and Baltimore City will issue relevant orders effective March 7, 2022.
Chief Judge Getty has issued four new administrative orders which replace previous ones. These include:
- Fourth Amended Administrative Order Expanding Statewide Judiciary Operations in Light of the COVID-19 Emergency
- Fifth Amended Administrative Order On Lifting the Statewide Suspension of Jury Trials and Maintaining Grand Juries
- Eleventh Amended Administrative Order on the Suspension During the COVID-19 Emergency of Foreclosures, Evictions, and Other Ejectments Involving Residences
- Revised Administrative Order on the Emergency Tolling of Suspension of Statutes of Limitations and Statutory and Rules Deadlines Related to the Initiation of Matters and Certain Statutory and Rules Deadlines in Pending Matters
These documents can be accessed on the Maryland Judiciary’s website at mdcourts.gov/coronavirusorders.
The judiciary continues to adhere to guidelines from both the Maryland Department of Health and CDC for preventing COVID-19 spread, including routine cleaning focused on frequently touched surfaces. For further information regarding jury service or accommodations, individuals should reach out to their local jury offices.