Welcome to the Howard County Courthouse and the Office of Clerk of the Circuit Court. Rich in the tradition and history of Maryland, the Office of Clerk of the Circuit Court is one of the oldest public institutions in the state. The Clerk of the Court is a locally elected state official who occupies an integral position within the judicial branch of government, their duties and responsibilities are established and regulated by the laws of Maryland and the Rules of the Court of Appeals of Maryland. Since 1658, the Office of Clerk of the Court has provided the citizens of Maryland with a variety of essential services. The revenue collected by the clerks for these services is distributed to city, county and state governments.

Each year the Clerk’s office files, processes, and maintains civil, criminal and juvenile actions. Land deeds, mortgages, plats, conveyances and other documents are recorded and electronically maintained by the Clerk. The Clerk issues business licenses and marriage licenses in addition to performing civil marriage ceremonies. The Clerk administers oaths to notary publics, county officials, judges and appointees commissioned by the Governor. Every resident in Howard County is a potential recipient of the many services provided by the Clerk.

Please browse through our links for more information. If my office can be of any service, please do not hesitate to contact us and ask for our assistance. 

courthouse photo courtesy Maryland Manual Online