Media Advisory:
Maryland judges available for interviews on the resumption of jury trials

The Maryland Judiciary is preparing to begin Phase V of its COVID-19 emergency reopening plan. Beginning on Monday, October 5, 2020, all courts in Maryland will be fully operational and will resume jury trials in criminal and civil cases in circuit courts statewide. 

Circuit administrative judges will be available for media interviews and a tour of the safety precautions being taken at courthouses to protect jurors, the public, judges, and Judiciary staff from the spread of COVID-19. Appointments are required and will be set up via the Judiciary’s Government Relations and Public Affairs office at [email protected].  

Per the Administrative Order Clarifying COVID-19 Health Measures in Courthouses and Judicial Branch Facilities, anyone entering a courthouse is required to wear a mask or face covering; submit to a written or verbal questionnaire regarding any COVID-19 related symptoms; and submit to a contactless thermometer temperature check.

As of Monday, August 31, 2020, Maryland’s circuit courts and the District Court of Maryland entered Phase IV of the Judiciary’s progressive reopening plan and resumed non-jury trials and contested hearings in civil, family, and juvenile cases.

WHO:             Maryland circuit administrative judges
                     
WHAT:           An interview and a courthouse tour of the jury assembly area, a courtroom, and a security check point to demonstrate the new personal protective equipment (PPE) precautions at local courthouses

WHEN:           September 10 – October 1, 2020, based on the local judges’ and courts availability

WHERE:         Local circuit courts in Maryland
                        

NOTE:  Please contact the Maryland Judiciary’s Government Relations and Public Affairs office by email at [email protected] to set up an interview or to assist in answering any questions. The use of cameras in courthouses must be approved in advance, and all persons being photographed should be asked for their consent to be photographed.

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