May 25th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Maryland court system outlined its reopening plan on Friday.

Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera issued an administrative order providing guidance to courts statewide.

“The details in the reopening plan were carefully and deliberately crafted by workgroups composed of Judiciary leadership, with the health and wellbeing of court visitors and employees as the driving force, in our work to increase access to the courts,” Barbera said in a statement. “We acknowledge the courts will not be able to immediately return to full operations. This phased return will guide the courts, as we continue to monitor health conditions in each of the twenty-four jurisdictions.”

At 5 p.m. June 5, courts will move into the second phase of a five-phase plan. In the second phase, courts will remain closed to the public except for the people who need to be there for the matters being heard. Each phase will bring increased activity in each courthouse. Courts in particular jurisdictions may need to make adjustments based on local coronavirus concerns.

Courts will remain encouraged to conduct remote proceedings whenever possible.