Proposed New Rule to Allow Cell Phones in Maryland Courts

The 165th Report of the Maryland Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure was submitted to the Court of Appeals on August 24, 2010.  Included in this report is a new proposed rule, 16-110, that would allow cell phones, cameras and other electronic devices to be brought into Maryland circuit and district courts.  However, their use in certain areas of the courthouse may still be controlled.  Adoption of the rule would result in a uniform policy for all of Maryland’s circuit and district courts.  Currently, some counties such as our Anne Arundel  allow cell phones to be brought in to the building but many other courts do not allow it.

The report also included proposed amendments to Rules 1-322,
4-216, 4-242, 5-404, 5-804, 16-109, and 16-901 and Rule 13 of the
Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Maryland.

Comments on the rules changes should be made by or on October 12, 2010.