The clerk of the court is generally the person who is responsible for all administrative tasks related to the court’s functions—including the filing of documents, recordkeeping, and scheduling of hearings, trials, and other matters before the court.
In Maryland, the clerk of the court is a vital administrative officer within the judicial system. The clerk's responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks that ensure the smooth operation of the court. These tasks include the filing of legal documents, such as lawsuits, pleadings, and motions, as well as maintaining the court's records, which involves keeping track of all case documentation and the court's official docket. Additionally, the clerk is responsible for scheduling court proceedings, including hearings and trials. The clerk also plays a role in the jury selection process, issuing summonses for jury duty, and managing the jurors during trials. The clerk's office is often the first point of contact for the public and attorneys when interacting with the court system. In Maryland, clerks are appointed in the federal courts, while in the state courts, the clerks may be elected or appointed depending on the jurisdiction and court level.