Maryland Courts Enter Phase 3 of Reopening

Maryland Courts Enter Phase 3 of Reopening

Beginning today, July 20, 2020, the Maryland courts have begun to move into Phase 3 of the Maryland Judiciary’s 5-step Reopening Plan. In Phase 3, clerk’s offices in both the District Court and circuit courts will reopen throughout the state and additional court matters will be scheduled and heard. This includes the Calvert County Circuit Courthouse located on Main Street in Prince Frederick, MD.

The Maryland Judiciary will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation and adjust its response accordingly. Some courts will continue to utilize technology for remote proceedings such as phone and video conferencing. Please note that this varies by location; your attorney will be able to advise you on the current situation at your local circuit courthouse or you can contact the Clerk’s office for additional information.

Upon reopening, the courts will be implementing new safety protocols in order to mitigate risk to other individuals and personnel within the courthouse. All individuals wishing to gain access to courthouses across the state are required to:

• Answer a set of screening questions;
• Have their temperature checked;
• Wear a face mask or covering;
• Adhere to social-distancing practices.

If COVID-19 conditions allow, the Maryland Judiciary expects to be able to move into Phase 4 of their reopening plan on August 31, 2020. Phase 4 includes the resumption of non-jury trials and other contested matters in the District Court of Maryland and state-wide circuit courts.

More information on the Maryland Judiciary’s response to COVID-19 can be found here: Maryland Judiciary Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates