Circuit Courts

Circuit Courts are where jury trials are held. Circuit Courts generally handle more serious criminal cases and major civil cases. These include juvenile and other family law cases such as divorce, custody and child support. The Circuit Courts hear most cases appealed from the District Court, orphans’ courts and some administrative agencies. Circuit Courts also hear domestic violence cases. Cases may be decided by juries, but also may be decided by a judge only.

There is a Circuit Court and Clerk's Office in each of Maryland’s 23 counties and the city of Baltimore. Circuit Courts are grouped in 8 judicial circuits.