Civil Litigation

In general, a civil action in Maryland must be filed within three years from the date the claim accrues. Some claims have different deadlines, and the clock does not always start on the date of the harm, so it is important to speak with an attorney early. Filing after the deadline can permanently bar your claim.

It often depends on the amount in dispute. The District Court of Maryland has exclusive jurisdiction over civil claims of $5,000 or less and shares jurisdiction with the circuit courts for claims above $5,000 and below $30,000. Contract and tort claims for more than $30,000 are heard in circuit court. The District Court does not hold jury trials.

Not necessarily. Many civil disputes are resolved through negotiation, settlement, or alternative dispute resolution before trial. Maryland circuit courts may order the parties to mediation, and in Montgomery County mediation can be ordered at any point while a civil case is pending.

In mediation, a neutral mediator helps the parties reach their own voluntary agreement but does not decide the case. In arbitration, a neutral arbitrator hears the evidence and issues a decision, which may be binding depending on the parties’ agreement or the rules that apply.

Bring any documents related to your dispute, such as contracts, leases, invoices, correspondence, insurance policies, notices, and any court papers you have received. A short timeline of key events is also helpful.