Effective July 1, Maryland introduced new rules allowing for the waiving of prepayment of court costs in civil cases for individuals unable to afford them. The revised Maryland Rule 1-325 establishes a uniform process and guidelines for granting such waivers.
Typically, court costs, including filing fees, must be paid when initiating a civil case. However, under the new rule, individuals can request a waiver at the start of their case without incurring any fee to file this request.
Additionally, clients represented by Legal Aid, the Office of the Public Defender, or approved civil legal services providers will automatically receive a prepayment waiver from clerks upon providing supporting documentation. The Judiciary website lists these approved providers as per the Maryland Legal Services Corporation (MLSC).
Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera commented on the changes: “These rules set forth a consistent and coherent process for waivers of prepayment of court costs. By simplifying what was a complicated process for litigants with demonstrated need, we are helping to fulfill our mandate to be a fair, effective, efficient, and accessible court system.”
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