Frederick County Court Records
What Is Frederick County Court Records
Court records in Frederick County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities and decisions maintained by various courts operating within Frederick County, Maryland. Pursuant to Maryland Code, General Provisions Article § 4-101, court records are defined as "information in any form, including a document, recording, or image, that is made, entered, filed with, or maintained by a court in connection with a particular case."
Frederick County court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets chronicling case events and proceedings
- Court orders and judicial decisions
- Judgments and decrees
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Marriage and divorce records
- Probate and estate documentation
These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics, and tax assessments, which are maintained by separate county departments rather than the court system.
The Maryland Judiciary maintains records across multiple court levels operating within Frederick County:
- Circuit Court for Frederick County (general jurisdiction trial court)
- District Court of Maryland for Frederick County (limited jurisdiction trial court)
- Orphans' Court (probate matters)
Court records in Frederick County encompass documentation from civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and small claims disputes. The maintenance and accessibility of these records are governed by the Maryland Rules on Access to Court Records, specifically Title 16, Chapter 900.
Are Court Records Public In Frederick County
Court records in Frederick County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Maryland's commitment to judicial transparency. The Maryland Public Information Act (Maryland Code, General Provisions Article § 4-101 et seq.) establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, shall be open to inspection by the public.
Additionally, the Maryland Rules on Access to Court Records (Title 16, Chapter 900) specifically govern public access to judicial records. Rule 16-902 states: "Except as otherwise provided by this Chapter, court records are presumed to be open to the public for inspection."
Records typically available for public inspection include:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments, orders, and opinions
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Marriage and divorce records
- Probate records
It is important to note that while the presumption favors public access, certain categories of records may be restricted or sealed by statute or court order. These exceptions typically include:
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Certain family law matters involving minors
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Records containing sensitive personal information
The Frederick County Circuit Court adheres to these state-level regulations regarding public access to court records. Members of the public seeking access to court records should be aware that federal courts operating in Maryland follow separate access rules under the federal judiciary system.
How To Find Court Records in Frederick County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Frederick County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining court records:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the appropriate courthouse where the case was filed
- Complete a record request form at the clerk's office
- Provide case number or party names for record identification
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable copy fees ($0.50 per page for standard copies)
- Wait for staff to retrieve and provide requested documents
Mail Requests:
- Submit a written request to the appropriate court clerk's office
- Include case number, party names, and specific documents needed
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Include payment for copy fees (check or money order)
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Online Access:
- Visit the Maryland Judiciary Case Search portal
- Create a user account if required
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date)
- Review available case information and document listings
- Request electronic copies of available documents
- Pay applicable fees for document downloads
For Circuit Court records, contact:
Circuit Court for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-1976
Circuit Court for Frederick County
For District Court records, contact:
District Court of Maryland for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-2000
District Court of Maryland
Requestors should note that certain records may require special authorization or court orders to access, particularly those subject to confidentiality provisions under Maryland law.
How To Look Up Court Records in Frederick County Online?
Frederick County residents and interested parties can access court records through several online platforms maintained by the Maryland Judiciary. These digital resources provide convenient methods for searching and retrieving court information without visiting courthouses in person.
The primary online resource is the Maryland Judiciary Case Search system, which provides public access to case records originating within the District and Circuit Courts. To utilize this system:
- Navigate to the Maryland Judiciary Case Search website
- Accept the terms and conditions of use
- Select search criteria from available options:
- Case Number
- Party Name (last name, first name)
- Company Name
- Filing Date Range
- Enter the required information in the search fields
- Review the search results displaying basic case information
- Select specific cases to view detailed information including:
- Case status
- Party information
- Scheduled hearings
- Docket entries
- Case disposition
For more comprehensive document access, the Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) system allows registered users to:
- Create an account with the Maryland Judiciary
- Log in to the MDEC system
- Search for cases using various criteria
- View and download available case documents
- Pay applicable fees for document access
Additionally, the Frederick County Circuit Court website provides links to specialized record systems including:
- Land Records
- Marriage Records
- Business Entity Records
- Tax Lien Records
Users should note that while basic case information is generally available online, complete case files with all documents may require in-person requests at the appropriate courthouse. Online access may also be limited for cases involving confidential information or those subject to restricted access under Maryland law.
How To Search Frederick County Court Records for Free?
Frederick County residents and members of the public may access certain court records without incurring fees, in accordance with Maryland's commitment to transparent judicial proceedings. The Maryland Public Information Act establishes that "all persons are entitled to access to information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees."
Free access options include:
In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the appropriate courthouse during regular business hours
- Complete a record request form at the clerk's office
- Provide case identification information
- Review records on-site without charge
- Return materials to court staff after inspection
The Maryland Rules on Access to Court Records (Rule 16-904) specifically states that "a custodian may not charge a fee for inspection of a court record that is open to inspection." This provision ensures that while copy fees may apply, the mere inspection of records remains free of charge.
Online Resources Without Fees:
-
Maryland Judiciary Case Search - Provides free access to basic case information including:
- Party names
- Case types
- Filing dates
- Hearing schedules
- Case status
- Judgment information
-
Frederick County Circuit Court Records - Offers free search capabilities for:
- Case indices
- Court calendars
- Judgment indices
-
Maryland Judiciary ePortal - Provides free registration and basic case information
While inspection and basic information are available without charge, fees typically apply for:
- Printed or electronic copies of documents ($0.50 per page)
- Certified copies of records ($5.00 plus copy fees)
- Record searches conducted by court personnel ($30.00 per name)
- Expedited processing services
Individuals with financial hardship may request fee waivers by filing the appropriate motion with the court pursuant to Maryland Rule 1-325.
What's Included in a Frederick County Court Record?
Frederick County court records contain comprehensive documentation of judicial proceedings, with contents varying based on case type and court jurisdiction. Pursuant to Maryland Rule 16-902(c), court records encompass all information maintained by the courts in connection with judicial proceedings.
Civil Case Records typically include:
- Initial complaint or petition
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Court orders and rulings
- Exhibits and evidence logs
- Witness lists and testimony summaries
- Final judgment or disposition
- Post-judgment motions and orders
- Appeal documentation (if applicable)
Criminal Case Records generally contain:
- Charging documents (indictment or information)
- Arrest warrant or criminal summons
- Bail or bond information
- Defendant's plea
- Discovery materials (with restrictions)
- Motions and court rulings
- Trial transcripts (if requested)
- Verdict or judgment
- Sentencing information
- Probation terms and conditions
- Appeal documentation (if applicable)
Family Law Case Records may include:
- Petition for divorce, custody, or support
- Financial statements and asset disclosures
- Parenting plans
- Custody evaluation reports
- Court orders regarding custody and support
- Final divorce decree
- Post-judgment modification requests
Probate Records typically contain:
- Will and testament (if applicable)
- Petition for probate
- Inventory of estate assets
- Claims against the estate
- Accounting of estate administration
- Distribution orders
- Estate closing documentation
Court records also include docket sheets that chronologically list all actions taken in a case, providing a comprehensive case history. Additionally, administrative records such as court calendars, judge assignments, and statistical reports may be maintained as part of the broader court record system.
It should be noted that certain sensitive information may be redacted from public court records in accordance with Maryland Rule 16-934, including Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal identifiers.
How Long Does Frederick County Keep Court Records?
Frederick County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Maryland Judiciary. These schedules vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance. The Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article § 16-505 authorizes the State Court Administrator to establish records retention and disposal schedules for all courts in the state.
Circuit Court Retention Periods:
- Civil cases (general): 12 years after case closure
- Civil judgments: 12 years after satisfaction or expiration
- Criminal felony cases: 75 years after final disposition
- Criminal misdemeanor cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Domestic relations cases: 50 years after final decree
- Juvenile cases: Until subject reaches age 21, then sealed
- Adoption records: Permanently maintained
- Guardianship cases: 10 years after termination of guardianship
- Land records and property judgments: Permanently maintained
- Marriage records: Permanently maintained
- Probate records: Permanently maintained
District Court Retention Periods:
- Civil cases: 3 years after final disposition
- Civil judgments: 12 years after satisfaction or expiration
- Criminal cases (jailable offenses): 10 years after final disposition
- Criminal cases (non-jailable offenses): 3 years after final disposition
- Traffic citations: 3 years after final disposition
- Domestic violence cases: 5 years after expiration of protective order
The Maryland Judiciary Records Retention and Disposal Schedule provides comprehensive guidance on record maintenance requirements. Records scheduled for destruction may be preserved if they possess historical significance or are subject to pending litigation.
Frederick County courts have implemented electronic document management systems that facilitate long-term preservation of digital records. Physical records may be transferred to the Maryland State Archives for permanent preservation after their active retention period expires.
Individuals seeking older records that may have been transferred to archival storage should contact:
Maryland State Archives
350 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-6400
Maryland State Archives
Types of Courts In Frederick County
Frederick County's judicial system consists of several courts operating within Maryland's unified court structure. Each court maintains distinct jurisdiction and record-keeping responsibilities as established by the Maryland Constitution and state law.
Circuit Court for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-1976
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Circuit Court for Frederick County
The Circuit Court serves as the county's court of general jurisdiction, handling major civil cases, serious criminal matters, family law proceedings, and appeals from the District Court. This court maintains comprehensive records for all cases within its jurisdiction.
District Court of Maryland for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-2000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
District Court of Maryland
The District Court handles misdemeanors, minor civil matters (under $30,000), landlord-tenant disputes, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings for felony cases. This court maintains records for all proceedings within its limited jurisdiction.
Orphans' Court for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-1976
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Orphans' Court
The Orphans' Court oversees probate matters, including will validation, estate administration, and guardianship appointments. This specialized court maintains records related to deceased persons' estates and related proceedings.
Frederick County cases may also proceed to Maryland's appellate courts:
Court of Special Appeals of Maryland
361 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-1450
Court of Special Appeals
Court of Appeals of Maryland
361 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-1500
Court of Appeals
These appellate courts review cases from Frederick County's trial courts when parties appeal lower court decisions. Records of these appellate proceedings are maintained at the state level rather than within Frederick County's record systems.
What Types of Cases Do Frederick County Courts Hear?
Frederick County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters according to their respective jurisdictional authority as established by Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article § 1-501 through § 4-402.
Circuit Court for Frederick County handles:
- Major civil litigation (claims exceeding $30,000)
- Equity matters including injunctions and specific performance
- Serious criminal cases (felonies and major misdemeanors)
- Jury trials for both civil and criminal matters
- Family law proceedings including:
- Divorce and annulment
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support and alimony
- Adoption and guardianship
- Name changes
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Juvenile dependency (child welfare) cases
- Appeals from District Court and administrative agencies
- Land records and property disputes
- Estate and trust litigation
- Business and commercial disputes
- Foreclosure proceedings
District Court of Maryland for Frederick County adjudicates:
- Civil claims up to $30,000
- Small claims (under $5,000)
- Landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings
- Protective orders and peace orders
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Motor vehicle violations
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Bail hearings
- Civil infractions
- Contract disputes within jurisdictional limits
- Replevin actions (recovery of personal property)
Orphans' Court for Frederick County oversees:
- Probate of wills
- Administration of estates
- Appointment of personal representatives
- Review of estate inventories and accountings
- Resolution of disputes regarding estate assets
- Guardianship of minors' property (in certain circumstances)
The Maryland Judiciary maintains statistical reports documenting the volume and types of cases processed by Frederick County courts annually. These reports indicate that the Circuit Court typically handles approximately 7,000 new cases per year, while the District Court processes over 30,000 cases annually, demonstrating the significant judicial activity within the county.
How To Find a Court Docket In Frederick County
Court dockets in Frederick County provide chronological listings of all proceedings and filings in specific cases. These records serve as official indices of court activities and are accessible through several methods established by the Maryland Judiciary.
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Maryland Judiciary Case Search portal
- Accept the terms and conditions
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or filing date)
- Review search results for basic case information
- Select specific cases to view docket entries
- Note that docket entries typically include:
- Filing dates
- Document titles
- Party information
- Scheduled hearings
- Judicial actions and rulings
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office at the appropriate courthouse:
- Circuit Court: 100 West Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- District Court: 100 West Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- Request docket information for specific cases
- Provide case number or party names
- Review docket information on public access terminals
- Request printed copies if needed (fees may apply)
Daily Court Calendars:
- Visit the Frederick County Circuit Court website
- Navigate to the court calendar section
- Select the desired court division and date
- Review scheduled hearings and proceedings
- Note that calendars typically list:
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Hearing types
- Scheduled times
- Assigned courtrooms
- Presiding judges
For specialized docket information, contact:
Circuit Court for Frederick County Clerk's Office
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-1976
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Circuit Court Clerk's Office
District Court of Maryland for Frederick County
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-2000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
District Court of Maryland
Pursuant to Maryland Rule 16-902, docket information is generally available to the public unless specifically sealed or restricted by court order. Researchers should note that while docket entries are typically accessible, the underlying documents referenced in docket entries may require separate requests and may be subject to access restrictions.
Which Courts in Frederick County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Frederick County's judicial system, certain courts do not maintain official verbatim records of their proceedings, classifying them as "courts not of record" under Maryland law. This distinction affects how proceedings are documented and how appeals are handled.
According to Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article § 1-501 and § 1-502, courts of record are those required to maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings, typically through court reporters or electronic recording systems. Courts not of record maintain case files and dockets but do not create official transcripts of oral proceedings.
In Frederick County, the following are classified as courts not of record:
-
Orphans' Court for Frederick County - While this court maintains written documentation of its decisions and orders regarding probate matters, it does not create verbatim transcripts of proceedings. Appeals from the Orphans' Court proceed to the Circuit Court as de novo proceedings, meaning the case is heard anew rather than reviewed based on a transcript.
-
Small Claims Division of the District Court - For civil claims under $5,000, proceedings are conducted informally without court reporters. While decisions and judgments are documented, verbatim records of testimony and arguments are not maintained.
By contrast, the following Frederick County courts are courts of record:
-
Circuit Court for Frederick County - All proceedings are recorded verbatim, either by court reporters or electronic recording systems.
-
District Court of Maryland for Frederick County (except Small Claims Division) - Regular civil and criminal proceedings are recorded electronically, creating an official record of all testimony and arguments.
The practical implications of this distinction include:
- Appeals from courts not of record are typically heard de novo (completely new hearings)
- Appeals from courts of record are reviewed based on the existing transcript
- Courts not of record typically follow more simplified procedural rules
- Parties in courts not of record may need to provide their own means of recording if they wish to preserve testimony
This classification system is established by the Maryland Constitution and implemented through the Maryland Rules of Procedure, specifically Title 16 regarding Court Administration.
Lookup Court Records in Frederick County
Frederick County Courts Information