#Maryland judiciary case search codes trial

Further, the clerks 'office’s inherent familiarity with the forms helpful in getting cases timely and correctly set for trial.

Using these forms can save considerable time. Forms for pleading small claims are available from the clerk and should be used in filing and defending such actions.

#Maryland judiciary case search codes trial

The practice tips contained below are designed to foster an effective, organized, and professional trial practice in the District Court of Maryland.Ī small claim is any matter in which the amount in controversy is $5,000 or less. This diminishes both the professional reputation of counsel and the potential recovery to his or her client. I am sure many of us have had the excruciating experience of sitting through a District Court trial conducted by a lawyer who is unprepared or unfamiliar with District Court practice. This article offers trial practice tips designed to maximize the financial recovery for our clients and, not for nothing, to increase the level of professionalism of the District Court bar. Lawyers owe these clients our best efforts when presenting their claims. Although the damages claimed may be small, these cases are important to our clients. Although the District Court lacks the extensive formal discovery process available in Circuit Court, it is important not to allow this perceived lack of formality to diminish our trial preparation and presentation to the District Court bench. The District Court has original jurisdiction over civil matters where the damages claimed are $30,000 or less. If you are an injury victim who wants to understand how the Maryland Circuit Court process works, we also have information about how the Circuit Court process works for accident victims.

It is also a good read for people who are trying to handle their own claims in Maryland District Court. This is a guide for lawyers handling Maryland District Court claims for $30,000 or less.