Frederick County Circuit Court: A Guide to Its History and Functions

The Frederick County Circuit Court is a vital judicial institution in the state of Maryland. It plays an essential role in maintaining the rule of law, ensuring justice, and providing a fair trial to every individual. In this article, we will delve into the history and functions of the Frederick County Circuit Court.

History of the Frederick County Circuit Court

The Frederick County Circuit Court has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. It was established in 1748 when the Maryland General Assembly passed an act that created the court. The court’s first session was held in a tavern located in the city of Frederick, Maryland. Over the years, the court’s location changed several times until it finally settled in its current location in the Frederick County Courthouse in 1986.

Functions of the Frederick County Circuit Court

The Frederick County Circuit Court is one of the busiest courts in the state of Maryland. It has a wide range of functions and responsibilities, some of which are highlighted below:

1. Hearing Civil Cases

The Frederick County Circuit Court hears civil cases such as personal injury lawsuits, breach of contract disputes, and property disputes. These cases are heard before a judge and decided based on the evidence presented.

2. Hearing Criminal Cases

The Frederick County Circuit Court also hears criminal cases such as felony cases, misdemeanor cases, and traffic offenses. These cases are prosecuted by the State’s Attorney’s Office, and the defendants are represented by private attorneys or public defenders.

3. Probate Cases

The Frederick County Circuit Court also has jurisdiction over probate cases. These cases involve the distribution of assets after an individual’s death, guardianship cases, and conservatorship cases.

4. Family Law Cases

The Frederick County Circuit Court also hears family law cases such as divorce, child custody, and child support cases. These cases are often emotionally charged and require the court to make decisions that are in the best interest of the child.

5. Jury Trials

The Frederick County Circuit Court also conducts jury trials. Jurors are selected from the county’s residents and are responsible for determining the verdict in criminal and civil cases.

The Frederick County Circuit Court docket

The Frederick County Circuit Court docket is a schedule of cases that will be heard by the court on a particular day. The docket is available to the public and can be accessed online or in person at the courthouse.

The address of the Frederick County Circuit Court

The address of the Frederick County Circuit Court is 100 West Patrick Street, Frederick, Maryland 21701. The courthouse is located in downtown Frederick, and there is ample parking nearby.

The Frederick County Circuit Court has several judges

The Frederick County Circuit Court has several judges who preside over cases in the court. The judges are appointed by the Governor of Maryland and must be confirmed by the State Senate. The current judges of the Frederick County Circuit Court include Judge Julie Stevenson Solt, Judge Danny O’Connor, and Judge Scott Rolle.

The family division of the Frederick County Circuit Court

The family division of the Frederick County Circuit Court handles cases related to divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and other family law matters. The family division has its own set of rules and procedures, and cases in this division are typically heard by a different judge than other types of cases.

The Frederick County Court case

The Frederick County Court case search allows the public to search for cases that have been filed in the court. The search can be conducted online, and it allows users to search by case number, party name, or case type.

The Frederick County, VA court case search is similar to the Maryland case search, but it is specific to cases filed in Frederick County, Virginia. This search can also be conducted online.

Frederick County public records

Frederick County public records include a wide range of documents that are maintained by the county government, including court records, property records, and vital records. Many of these records are available to the public, and they can be accessed online or in person at the county courthouse.

Frederick County divorce records

Frederick County divorce records are also part of the public record and can be accessed through the courthouse. These records typically include information about the parties involved, the date of the divorce, and any orders issued by the court related to the divorce.

Conclusion

The Frederick County Circuit Court is an integral part of Maryland’s judicial system. It provides a fair and impartial trial to every individual who appears before it. Its history is a testament to the court’s resilience and dedication to upholding the rule of law. Whether you are facing a civil or criminal case or need assistance with a probate or family law matter, the Frederick County Circuit Court is here to help.

FAQs

How can I contact the Frederick County Circuit Court?

You can contact the Frederick County Circuit Court by phone at (301) 600-1976 or by email at [email protected].

What are the court’s hours of operation?

The Frederick County Circuit Court is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except on holidays.

What is the process for filing a case in the Frederick County Circuit Court?

To file a case in the Frederick County Circuit Court, you must complete the appropriate forms and pay the required fees. You can file your case in person or by mail.

Can I represent myself in court?

Yes, you have the right to represent yourself in court. However, it is often advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney, especially in complex cases.

How are judges appointed to the Frederick County Circuit Court?

Judges of the Frederick County Circuit Court are appointed by the Governor of Maryland and must be confirmed by the State Senate.