Courts and Judicial Proceedings (GCJ) — Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-101 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
(a–1)
“Active duty” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article.
(b)
“Breast–feeding mother” means a mother who is feeding her child breast milk, either directly from her breast or by expressing and bottle–feeding the child.
(c)
(1)
“Jury commissioner” means an individual who is designated under a jury plan to manage jury selection and service.
(2)
“Jury commissioner” includes an acting jury commissioner who is designated in accordance with a jury plan.
(d)
“Jury plan” means a plan that the circuit court for a county adopts under this title to govern jury selection and service for the county.
(e)
“Prospective juror” means an individual whose name is selected from a source pool but who has not yet been screened for disqualification, excusal, or exemption.
(f)
“Qualified juror” means an individual who, after selection as a prospective juror, is not disqualified, excused, or exempted.
(g)
“Source pool” means a pool from which the name of each prospective juror is to be selected as provided under a jury plan.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-102 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each adult citizen of this State has:
(1)
The opportunity for jury service; and
(2)
When summoned for jury service, the duty to serve.
(b)
A citizen may not be excluded from jury service due to color, disability, economic status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
(c)
Recommendations, if any, for jury service may not be accepted.
(d)
Volunteers for jury service shall be refused.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-103 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–103LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Notwithstanding § 8–102 of this subtitle, an individual qualifies for jury service for a county only if the individual:
(1)
Is an adult as of the day selected as a prospective juror;
(2)
Is a citizen of the United States; and
(3)
Resides in the county as of the day sworn as a juror.
(b)
Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section and subject to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, an individual is not qualified for jury service if the individual:
(1)
Cannot comprehend spoken English or speak English;
(2)
Cannot comprehend written English, read English, or write English proficiently enough to complete a juror qualification form satisfactorily;
(3)
Has a disability that, as documented by a health care provider’s certification, prevents the individual from providing satisfactory jury service;
(4)
Has been convicted, in a federal or State court of record, of:
(i)
A crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding 1 year and is currently serving the sentence imposed for the conviction, including a term of parole or probation; or
(ii)
A crime involving or relating to:
(1)
Perjury;
(2)
Witness intimidation;
(3)
Jury intimidation; or
(4)
A crime under Title 8 of the Criminal Law Article; or
(5)
Has a charge pending, in a federal or State court of record, for a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding 1 year.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-104 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–104LinkCopy Citation
Each jury for a county shall be selected at random from a fair cross section of the adult citizens of this State who reside in the county.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-105 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–105LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A custodian, as defined in § 4–101(d) of the General Provisions Article, may allow access to information about prospective, qualified, and sworn jurors only in accordance with rules that the Supreme Court of Maryland adopts.
(b)
The rules shall provide for access to, and copying of, information needed for a challenge under § 8–408 or § 8–409 of this title.
(c)
The rules shall provide for disclosure of information to the State Board of Elections as to individuals who have died, have moved, or are not citizens of the United States.
(d)
The rules shall provide for disclosure of information to the State Motor Vehicle Administration as needed to correct data that the Administration provides.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-106 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 1. Definitions; General Provisions
§ 8–106LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Nothing in this title restricts the inherent authority of a trial judge with regard to jurors.
(b)
Except as to a constitutional question, nothing in this title constitutes a ground for postconviction relief under Title 7 of the Criminal Procedure Article.
(c)
Nothing in this title bars a circuit court from using a single procedure for qualification and summonsing as its jury plan authorizes.
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-201 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–201LinkCopy Citation
Each circuit court shall have a written plan for jury selection and service in accordance with the requirements of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-202 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–202LinkCopy Citation
The Supreme Court of Maryland may adopt rules to govern the provisions and implementation of jury plans.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-203 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
A circuit court may propose to the Supreme Court of Maryland a change to the circuit court’s jury plan at any time, by filing the proposal with the Supreme Court of Maryland.
(2)
Within 60 days after a circuit court files a proposal under this subsection, the Supreme Court of Maryland shall approve or disapprove the proposal.
(3)
A proposal approved under this subsection is effective:
(i)
61 days after a circuit court files the proposal; or
(ii)
Any earlier date that the Supreme Court of Maryland sets.
(b)
(1)
If the Supreme Court of Maryland orders a circuit court to change its jury plan, the circuit court shall do so.
(2)
A change that the Supreme Court of Maryland orders is effective:
(i)
On the day the Court sets; but
(ii)
Not later than 90 days after the date of approval of the circuit court’s change.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-204 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each jury plan shall designate a jury judge.
(b)
The jury judge for a circuit court shall be:
(1)
The county administrative judge of the circuit court; or
(2)
Another of the circuit court judges whom the county administrative judge designates.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-205 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–205LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each jury plan shall designate a jury commissioner.
(b)
The jury commissioner for a circuit court shall be:
(1)
The clerk of the circuit court; or
(2)
Another individual designated in the manner set forth in the jury plan.
(c)
A jury plan may designate, or allow a jury judge to designate, an individual to serve as acting jury commissioner if the jury commissioner is temporarily unavailable or unable to perform duties.
(d)
The jury commissioner for a circuit court shall manage jury selection and service, under the control and supervision of the jury judge for the circuit court.
(e)
A jury commissioner, other than a clerk, is entitled to the compensation set by law.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-206 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–206LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each jury plan shall provide for a source pool solely from which the names of prospective jurors are to be selected.
(b)
(1)
The source pool under the jury plan for a county shall include the names of all of the adults on:
(i)
A statewide voter registration list no older than that used in the most recent general election as to residents of the county;
(ii)
A list of holders of driver’s licenses issued by the Motor Vehicle Administration to residents of the county; and
(iii)
A list of holders of identification cards issued by the Motor Vehicle Administration to residents of the county.
(2)
The source pool under the jury plan for a county may include any other list of residents of the county that the jury plan authorizes.
(c)
(1)
Each jury plan shall detail procedures by which a jury commissioner is to have names selected from the most recent source pool.
(2)
Procedures under this subsection shall be designed to ensure each jury is selected in accordance with the requirements of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-207 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–207LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each jury plan shall set intervals for creation of a prospective juror pool and a qualified juror pool.
(b)
(1)
Each jury plan shall set a minimum number of names to be selected from the source pool as prospective jurors.
(2)
The minimum number shall be:
(i)
At least 150; and
(ii)
Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, at least 0.5% of the total number of names in the source pool.
(3)
If the minimum percentage under paragraph (2)(ii) of this subsection would be cumbersome and unnecessary, a jury plan may set a smaller number.
(4)
A jury judge for a county may order its jury commissioner to have additional names selected from the county’s source pool as the judge considers necessary.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-208 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–208LinkCopy Citation
Each jury plan shall set the method by which summonses for jury service are to be served.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-209 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–209LinkCopy Citation
Each jury plan shall set the method by which the names of qualified jurors are to be allocated between grand and trial juries.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-210 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–210LinkCopy Citation
Each jury plan shall detail changes of information as to prospective, qualified, and sworn jurors about which a jury commissioner is to inform a jury judge.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-211 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–211LinkCopy Citation
Each jury plan shall set the method by which a foreperson is to be chosen for a grand jury from among its members.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-212 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–212LinkCopy Citation
The jury plan for a county may state any question, in addition to those required under § 8–302(a) of this title, to be included on the county’s juror qualification form, consistent with the interest of the sound administration of justice and not inconsistent with this title and other law.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-213 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–213LinkCopy Citation
The jury plan of a circuit court may provide for an agreement between the circuit court and the Administrative Office of the Courts or a person, for the Administrative Office or person to:
(1)
Provide the circuit court with names selected in the number that the jury plan sets;
(2)
Have juror questionnaire forms sent as the jury plan requires;
(3)
Have summonses sent as the jury plan requires; or
(4)
Provide any other service as to jury selection and service.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-214 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–214LinkCopy Citation
A jury plan may set a single procedure for qualification and summonsing for jury service.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-215 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–215LinkCopy Citation
The jury plan for a county may enable its jury commissioner, subject to criteria set forth in the jury plan and under the overall supervision of the county’s jury judge, to:
(1)
Disqualify prospective or qualified jurors for specific reasons stated in this title;
(2)
Excuse prospective or qualified jurors for specific reasons stated in this title;
(3)
Exempt prospective or qualified jurors for specific reasons stated in this title; or
(4)
Reschedule jury service by prospective or qualified jurors for specific reasons stated in this title.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-216 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–216LinkCopy Citation
A jury plan may provide that, notwithstanding the limit on frequency of trial jury service in § 8–310(c)(2) of this title, an individual who serves on a jury for fewer than 5 days in a 3–year period may be summoned for jury service after 1 year.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-217 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 2. Jury Plan
§ 8–217LinkCopy Citation
A jury plan may create a program for donation of State per diems and county supplements by prospective, qualified, or sworn jurors.
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-301 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
At each interval set in a jury plan for a county, its jury commissioner shall have names selected from the source pool in the number that the jury commissioner decides will satisfy the needs for jury service for the interval.
(b)
Names selected under this section constitute a prospective juror pool.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-302 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–302LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In accordance with an agreement, if any, under § 8–213 of this title, a juror qualification form in substantially the following form shall be provided to each prospective juror:
Juror Qualification Form
Name:
Resident address:
Telephone: (home) _________ (work) _________ (cellular) _______
Age: _____ Date of Birth:__________
If you are over 70 years of age, do you wish to be exempted from jury services? _____Yes _____No
(U)
(S)
Citizen? _____Yes _____No
Able to comprehend, read, speak, and write English? _____Yes _____No
Highest level of education completed:
___ high school ___ college ___ graduate school ___ other
Occupation of prospective juror: __________
Name of employer: ___________
Occupation of spouse, if any: __________
Disability preventing satisfactory jury service? _____Yes _____No
Do you want an accommodation under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act? _____Yes _____No
Pending charge for a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding 1 year? _____Yes _____No
Conviction of crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding 1 year and received a sentence of imprisonment for more than 1 year and not legally pardoned? _____Yes _____No
Date of Conviction __________
_____Elected official of the federal Legislative Branch, as defined in 2 U.S.C. § 30a.
_____Active duty member of armed forces, as defined in § 9–901 of the State Government Article, exempted in accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 982.
_____Active duty member of the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, exempted in accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 982, as made applicable by 33 U.S.C. § 307(a)(6).
_____Member of Maryland’s organized militia exempted in accordance with Public Safety Article § 13–218.
Prior jury service within 3 preceding years: __________
Form completed by me _____ Another (name) _____ and, if another, why?
Under the penalties of perjury, the responses are true to the best of my knowledge
Signed:________________________________________________
Prospective Juror
Individual completing form for prospective juror:
This form must be completed, signed, and returned to the jury commissioner within 10 days after receipt. Documentation for excusal due to disability, exemption based on armed forces or militia service, pardons, and/or prior jury service must be attached.
(b)
A juror qualification form for a county may include other questions as the county’s jury plan requires.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-303 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–303LinkCopy Citation
Whenever it seems to a jury commissioner that there is an ambiguity, error, or omission in a person’s juror qualification form, the jury commissioner shall return the form to the person, with instructions to make each needed addition and other change, acknowledge all of the changes, and return the form to the jury commissioner within 10 days after receipt.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-304 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Whenever a person fails to return a completed juror qualification form as instructed, a jury commissioner may summons the person to appear before the jury commissioner or jury judge.
(b)
Whenever a person appears under this section, a jury commissioner or jury judge:
(1)
May require the person to complete, sign, and acknowledge a juror qualification form in the presence of the jury commissioner; and
(2)
If, at that time, it seems to the jury commissioner or jury judge to be warranted, may question the person but only as to responses to questions in the form and grounds for disqualification, excusal, exemption, or rescheduling.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-305 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–305LinkCopy Citation
Whenever a person appears for jury service, a jury commissioner or jury judge:
(1)
May require the person to complete, sign, and acknowledge a juror qualification form in the presence of the jury commissioner; and
(2)
If, at that time, it seems to the jury commissioner or jury judge to be warranted, may question the person but only as to responses to questions in the form and grounds for disqualification, excusal, exemption, or rescheduling.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-306 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–306LinkCopy Citation
An individual is exempt from jury service only if the individual:
(1)
Is at least 70 years old and asks the jury commissioner, in writing, for an exemption;
(2)
Is an elected official of the federal Legislative Branch, as defined in 2 U.S.C. § 30a;
(3)
Is an active duty member of the armed forces exempted in accordance with 10 U.S.C. § 982; or
(4)
Is a member of the organized militia exempted in accordance with § 13-218 of the Public Safety Article.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-309 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–309LinkCopy Citation
An individual who is not disqualified, excused, or exempted under Part I of this subtitle is a qualified juror.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-310 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–310LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
At each interval set in a jury plan for a county, its jury commissioner shall have names of qualified jurors selected in the number that the jury commissioner decides will satisfy the needs for jury service during the interval.
(2)
Subject to § 8-421 of this title, a jury commissioner shall have enough names selected to allow parties to make peremptory challenges as allowed under this title or otherwise provided in the Maryland Rules.
(b)
Names selected under this section constitute a qualified juror pool.
(c)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a jury commissioner shall allocate names from the qualified juror pool to grand and trial juries as the jury plan provides.
(2)
Except as needed to complete service in a particular case or as otherwise provided in a jury plan, an individual may not be required, in any 3–year period, to serve or attend court for jury service more than once.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-311 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–311LinkCopy Citation
At the request of a trial judge, a jury commissioner may distribute to qualified jurors a questionnaire with regard to any matter, including a conviction or pending civil jury trial that may be a basis for disqualification as a juror in a particular case.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-314 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 3. Prospective and Qualified Jurors
§ 8–314LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A jury commissioner shall document each addition or other change to information provided under this subtitle and each decision with regard to disqualification, exemption, or excusal from, or rescheduling of, jury service.
(b)
The jury commissioner of a county shall inform its jury judge of changes to information as provided in the county’s jury plan.
(c)
The jury commissioner of a county shall keep each record that the jury commissioner has used in connection with the jury service in accordance with the records retention and disposal schedule of the county.
Subtitle 4. Juries
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-401 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Whenever a grand or trial jury is needed, a jury commissioner shall:
(1)
Summons qualified jurors in the number needed; and
(2)
Have the summons served as the jury plan requires.
(b)
A jury commissioner shall address mail to an individual’s usual business or resident address.
(c)
A summons sent to an individual with a juror qualification form shall instruct the individual to report for jury service unless a jury commissioner instructs otherwise.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-402 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to the requirements of this section, a jury judge or, if a county’s jury plan allows, its jury commissioner may disqualify, excuse, or exempt an individual who is summoned for jury service or reschedule jury service.
(b)
An individual may be disqualified only on the basis of information provided on a juror questionnaire or during an interview or other competent evidence.
(c)
(1)
To be excused, an individual shall show, on a juror questionnaire, during an interview, or by other competent evidence, that:
(i)
Extreme inconvenience, public necessity, or undue hardship requires excusal;
(ii)
The individual is a breast–feeding mother; or
(iii)
The individual has legal custody of and is personally responsible for a child under the age of 3 years requiring continuous care by the individual during normal court hours.
(2)
A jury judge or jury commissioner may, but is not required to, excuse an individual under paragraph (1)(ii) or (iii) of this subsection.
(3)
An individual may be excused:
(i)
Only for the period that the jury judge or jury commissioner considers necessary; and
(ii)
Not more than twice unless the jury judge finds that the individual has shown an extraordinary circumstance that requires an additional excuse.
(4)
When the period set under this subsection expires, a jury commissioner again shall summon the individual for jury service.
(d)
(1)
On or before December 31, 2025, and each December 31 thereafter, the Maryland Judiciary shall collect and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, report to the General Assembly the following information for the preceding calendar year:
(i)
The number of individuals requesting to be excused for jury duty under subsection (c)(1) of this section; and
(ii)
The number of individuals granted or denied an excusal under subsection (c)(1) of this section.
(2)
The information reported under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be disaggregated by:
(i)
Jurisdiction;
(ii)
The type of excusal requested under subsection (c)(1) of this section; and
(iii)
Whether the excusal request was granted or denied.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-403 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–403LinkCopy Citation
An individual may not be required to serve simultaneously:
(1)
On more than 1 grand jury; or
(2)
As both a grand and trial juror.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-404 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Notwithstanding § 8–103(a) of this title, a trial judge may strike an individual who is party in a civil case while the individual is entitled to a jury trial in the county.
(b)
(1)
Whenever more individuals than are needed to impanel a jury have been summoned, an individual may be excused but only in accordance with rule or other law.
(2)
An individual who is summoned for jury service may be struck from a particular jury only:
(i)
In accordance with rule or other law, by a party on peremptory challenge;
(ii)
For good cause shown, by a trial judge on a challenge by a party; or
(iii)
Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, by a trial judge who finds that:
(1)
The individual may be unable to render impartial jury service;
(2)
The individual’s service likely would disrupt the proceeding; or
(3)
The individual’s service may threaten the secrecy of a proceeding or otherwise affect the integrity of the jury deliberations adversely.
(3)
A trial judge may not strike an individual under paragraph (2)(iii)3 of this subsection, unless the judge states on the record:
(i)
Each reason for the strike; and
(ii)
A finding that the strike is warranted and not inconsistent with §§ 8–102(a) and (b) and 8–104 of this title.
(4)
An individual struck under this subsection may serve on another jury for which the basis for the strike is irrelevant.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-405 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–405LinkCopy Citation
A trial judge may:
(1)
Excuse a sworn juror temporarily; and
(2)
Order the sworn juror to return:
(i)
On a specific day; or
(ii)
On a date and at a time that the trial judge or jury commissioner directs.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-408 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–408LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section sets forth the exclusive procedure by which a party in a civil case may challenge a jury on the ground that the jury was not summoned or otherwise selected in compliance with this title.
(b)
(1)
Before examination begins in a civil case or, for good cause shown, after a jury is sworn but before it receives evidence, a party may move to stay the case on the ground of substantial failure to comply with a provision of this title in selecting the trial jury.
(2)
A motion under this section shall contain a sworn statement of facts that, if true, would constitute a substantial failure to comply with this title.
(c)
On a showing that a party needs access to a record to prepare for a hearing on a motion pending under this section, a trial judge may allow the party to inspect and copy the record as needed to prepare.
(d)
A movant who files a motion in accordance with this section is entitled to present relevant evidence in support of the motion, including:
(1)
The testimony of the jury commissioner; and
(2)
Relevant records, whether or not public, that the jury commissioner used.
(e)
(1)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury, the trial judge shall stay the case pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.
(2)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with a provision other than § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury and the failure is likely to be prejudicial to the movant, the trial judge shall stay the proceeding pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-409 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–409LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section sets forth the exclusive procedure by which a party in a criminal case may challenge a jury on the ground that the jury was not summoned or otherwise selected in compliance with this title.
(b)
(1)
Before examination begins in a criminal case or, for good cause shown, after a jury is sworn but before it receives evidence, a party may move to dismiss a charging document or stay the case on the ground of substantial failure to comply with a provision of this title in selecting the grand or trial jury.
(2)
A motion under this section shall contain a sworn statement of facts that, if true, would constitute a substantial failure to comply with this title.
(c)
On a showing that a party needs access to a record to prepare for a hearing on a motion pending under this section, a trial judge may allow the party to inspect and copy a record as needed to prepare.
(d)
A movant who files a motion in accordance with this section is entitled to present relevant evidence in support of the motion, including:
(1)
The testimony of the jury commissioner; and
(2)
Relevant records, whether or not public, that the jury commissioner used.
(e)
(1)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a grand jury, the judge shall:
(i)
Stay the case pending selection of a grand jury in compliance with this title; or
(ii)
Dismiss the charging document.
(2)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with a provision other than § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a grand jury and finds the failure likely to be prejudicial to the movant, the judge shall:
(i)
Stay the case pending selection of a grand jury in compliance with this title; or
(ii)
Dismiss the charging document.
(f)
(1)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury, the trial judge shall stay the case pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.
(2)
If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with a provision other than § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury and the failure is likely to be prejudicial to the movant, the trial judge shall stay the proceeding pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-412 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–412LinkCopy Citation
(a)
When sworn, a grand jury shall consist of 23 grand jurors plus additional alternate grand jurors as provided in the Maryland Rules.
(b)
The failure of a grand juror to serve for the entire period of service does not invalidate the grand jury or any of its actions.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-413 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–413LinkCopy Citation
In addition to any grand jury that a jury plan for a county requires for a set period, on petition of a State’s Attorney, the county administrative judge may summons one or more grand juries.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-414 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–414LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A court reporter whom a jury judge orders under § 2-503 of this article to record testimony before a grand jury may be present at its sessions.
(b)
An interpreter whom a jury judge approves may be present at a grand jury session as needed to provide services as an interpreter.
(c)
(1)
This subsection applies only to a grand jury for Baltimore City.
(2)
The State’s Attorney for Baltimore City or an assistant State’s Attorney for Baltimore City:
(i)
At the request of a grand jury, may attend any of its sessions; but
(ii)
May not be present when the grand jury votes on an indictment or presentment.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-415 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–415LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each grand juror shall take an oath in substantially the following form:
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-416 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–416LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A court reporter ordered to take testimony given before a grand jury shall take and transcribe the testimony.
(b)
(1)
A court reporter shall provide, as requested, a transcript of testimony given before a grand jury for a county to the grand jury and State’s Attorney for the county.
(2)
Each transcript of testimony given before a grand jury for a county shall be kept in the custody of the State’s Attorney for the county.
(3)
Unless the circuit court for a county orders otherwise after hearing the State’s Attorney for the county, neither the original nor a copy of the transcript of testimony given before a grand jury may be taken from the office of the State’s Attorney for the county, other than for use of the grand jury or for production in court.
(4)
On written order of the circuit court for a county, granted on written motion of the State’s Attorney for the county, the State’s Attorney may have the notes as to, and transcript of, grand jury testimony destroyed.
(c)
Except on written order of the circuit court for a county after hearing the State’s Attorney for the county:
(1)
A record of testimony given before a grand jury is for the exclusive use and benefit of the grand jury and the State’s Attorney; and
(2)
A court reporter may not:
(i)
Allow any other governmental unit or person to read or have a copy of all or any part of the record; or
(ii)
Disclose wholly or partly the character of the contents of the record to any other governmental unit or person.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-417 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–417LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section applies only to a grand jury for Baltimore City.
(b)
In addition to any other duty imposed by law, each grand jury shall carry out an investigation if a judge of the circuit court directs.
(c)
At the end of the period for which a grand jury sits, the grand jury shall submit to the jury commissioner of the circuit court a report on each of its investigations and recommendations.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-420 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–420LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
This subsection applies only in a criminal trial in which a defendant is subject, on any single count, to a sentence of life imprisonment, excluding a common law offense for which no specific statutory penalty is provided.
(2)
Each defendant is allowed 20 peremptory challenges.
(3)
The State is allowed 10 peremptory challenges for each defendant.
(b)
(1)
This subsection applies only in a criminal trial in which a defendant is subject, on any single count, to a sentence of at least 20 years, excluding a case subject to subsection (a) of this section or a common law offense for which no specific statutory penalty is provided.
(2)
Each defendant is allowed 10 peremptory challenges.
(3)
The State is allowed five peremptory challenges for each defendant.
(c)
In every other criminal trial, each party is allowed four peremptory challenges.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-421 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–421LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In a civil case in which a jury trial is allowed, the jury shall consist of six jurors.
(b)
If the parties in a civil case agree, a trial judge may dispense with selecting an array of at least 14 qualified jurors.
(c)
If the parties in a criminal case agree, a trial judge may dispense with selecting an array of at least 20 qualified jurors.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-422 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–422LinkCopy Citation
At any time before or after submission of a case to a jury, a trial judge may allow the jury to separate or be sequestered.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-425 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–425LinkCopy Citation
In this Part V of this subtitle, “per diem” means the amount to be paid for all of the time from midnight through a 24-hour period for which a circuit court requires a prospective, qualified, or sworn juror to be in attendance at or in proximity to the circuit court.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-426 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–426LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, an individual is entitled, for each day that an individual is required to be in attendance at or proximity to a circuit court for a county for jury service, to:
(1)
A State per diem of $30; and
(2)
The supplement, if any, authorized by the county.
(b)
A trial juror is entitled:
(1)
For the first 5 days of jury service in one trial, to a State per diem of $30; and
(2)
For each day of jury service in one trial in excess of 5 days, a State per diem of $50.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-427 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–427LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the government of each county may set, by ordinance, an amount to supplement the State per diem and, for each fiscal year.
(2)
Unless, by ordinance, a county government increases or decreases the supplement, the amount shall be enough to keep a total State per diem and county supplement equal to the county per diem as of June 30, 2001.
(b)
The government of each county shall levy and appropriate for each fiscal year the amount needed to pay the State per diem, pending reimbursement by the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the county supplement, if any.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-428 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–428LinkCopy Citation
The State budget for the Judicial Branch for each fiscal year shall include an appropriation to the Administrative Office of the Courts in the amount needed for the State per diem during the year.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-429 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–429LinkCopy Citation
The jury commissioner of a circuit court shall issue to each prospective, qualified, and sworn juror a signed certificate that documents the number of days that the juror has been required to be in attendance at or proximity to the circuit court for jury service.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-430 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 4. Juries
§ 8–430LinkCopy Citation
Prospective, qualified, or sworn jurors may donate their per diem and supplement in accordance with a program that the jury plan authorizes.
Subtitle 5
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-501 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An employer may not deprive an individual of employment or coerce, intimidate, or threaten to discharge an individual because the individual:
(1)
Loses employment time in responding to a summons under this title or attending, or being in proximity to, a circuit court for jury service under this title; or
(2)
Exercises a right to refrain from work under subsection (b) of this section.
(b)
An employer may not require an individual who is summoned and appears for jury service for 4 or more hours, including traveling time, to work an employment shift that begins:
(1)
On or after 5 p.m. on the day of the individual’s appearance for jury service; or
(2)
Before 3 a.m. on the day following the individual’s appearance for jury service.
(c)
A person who violates any provision of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-502 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An employer may not require an employee to use the employee’s annual, sick, or vacation leave to respond to a summons under this title for jury service.
(b)
A person who violates any provision of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-503 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person who is summoned for jury service under this title may not fail to return a completed juror qualification form.
(b)
A jury judge may order a person who violates any provision of this section to appear and show cause for each violation.
(c)
A person who fails to show good cause for a violation of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or both.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-504 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not fail to appear for jury service as summoned under this title.
(b)
A jury judge may order a person who violates any provision of this section to appear and show cause for each violation.
(c)
A person who fails to show good cause for a violation of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 60 days or both.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-505 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–505LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person who is summoned for jury service under this title may not fail to complete jury service as directed.
(b)
A jury judge may order a person who violates any provision of this section to appear and show cause for each violation.
(c)
A person who fails to show good cause for a violation of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or both.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-506 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not willfully misrepresent a material fact on a juror qualification form for the purpose of avoiding or obtaining service as a juror under this title.
(b)
A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or both.
Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 8-507 (2026)
Title 8. Juries and Jurors
Subtitle 5
§ 8–507LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not disclose any content of a grand jury proceeding.
(b)
A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.
(c)
This section does not prevent:
(1)
A grand jury from submitting a report as required by law; or
(2)
Any other governmental unit or person making a disclosure authorized by law.