Garrett County Court Records Lookup

The following is for information purposes only

Garrett County, with over 28,856 residents, is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and peaceful rural lifestyle. The county is named after John Work Garrett, a former president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (the country's first and oldest common carrier railroad). The county seat is at Oakland. Part of the 6th Congressional District Garrett County's trial court system comprises three major courts: the Circuit Court, the District Court, and the Orphan's Court.

The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over major civil cases, grave criminal matters, juvenile cases, and family law cases. It also handles appeals from the District Court and certain administrative agencies, as well as jury services, which include managing jury schedules and excusal requests. The Circuit Court also offers family support services and assists in family law cases, including mediation services, parenting coordination, and support for self-represented litigants in family law matters.

On the other hand, the District Court oversees a variety of cases, including landlord-tenant disputes, traffic violations, criminal cases, some felonies, and civil cases involving amounts up to $30,000; this court does not manage jury trials. The Orphans' Court is primarily responsible for overseeing probate and estate matters and ensuring the proper administration of the estates of deceased residents, including the appointment of personal representatives and the resolution of disputes among beneficiaries. The court works closely with the Garrett County Register of Wills, who assists in the administrative aspects of estate management, including maintaining records and collecting necessary taxes and fees.

Garrett County court records are primarily maintained by the Clerk's Office of the court where the case was handled and can be accessed by contacting the appropriate Clerk's Office. The Maryland Judiciary also provides a Case Search portal that can be used to access Garrett County court records online. Be aware that some records are sealed and confidential due to their nature. Such records deal with information llike juvenile records, adoption cases, custodial records, medical and mental health records, sex offenders, and any information that can be considered personal and/or identifying. All sealed files are restricted from public access and require either a court order or special permission from authorized personnel.

Garrett County's total crime rate is approximately 42.2 per 100,000 population, which is lower than state and national averages. The county's courts are essential to its judiciary and are committed to ensuring justice is served across a wide range of legal matters to all of its residents.