# COMAR Title 14 — Independent Agencies

## Subtitle 22 — Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy

### Chapter 01 — General Regulations

#### Regulation .01 Scope.

*COMAR 14.22.01.01*

A. The Maryland sentencing guidelines apply to criminal cases prosecuted in a circuit court. The following sentencing matters handled by judges in a circuit court are excluded from guidelines coverage:

  (1) Prayers for jury trial from District Court, unless a PSI is ordered;

  (2) Appeals from District Court, unless a PSI is ordered;

  (3) Crimes which carry no possible penalty of incarceration;

  (4) Public local laws and municipal ordinances;

  (5) Sentencing hearings in response to a violation of probation;

  (6) Criminal nonsupport and criminal contempt; and

  (7) Cases adjudicated in a juvenile court.

B. Under Criminal Procedure Article, §6-211(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, the sentencing guidelines are voluntary and may not be construed to require a court to sentence a defendant as prescribed by this chapter.