Independent reporting on Maryland’s courts, judges, and the systems meant to deliver justice.
Maryland’s judiciary shapes everything from public safety to family stability, yet its decisions often unfold far from public view. MDBayNews’ Courts & Justice desk brings transparency to a system that affects every resident—tracking major rulings, judicial appointments, courtroom practices, case backlogs, accountability failures, and the real-world consequences of decisions made behind the bench.
We follow the stories most outlets overlook:
- How judges interpret and apply Maryland law
- Protective orders, custody disputes, and due process rights
- Court administration, delays, and system failures
- Criminal justice trends and sentencing decisions
- High-stakes civil cases and constitutional questions
- Public corruption, misconduct, and oversight issues
Whether it’s a landmark Maryland Supreme Court ruling or a quiet county-level decision with sweeping impact, this is where you find clear reporting, independent analysis, and investigations you can’t get anywhere else.
Where the courts meet accountability — and the public gets the full story.
Steny Hoyer’s Long Reign: Power, Spending, and the Costs of Washington Institutionalism
After 45 years in Congress, Steny Hoyer retires with a reputation for civility and deal-making—but also as a chief architect of Washington’s era of massive spending bills, leadership control, and diminished accountability. From omnibuses to institutional power, his legacy is more cautionary than celebratory.
Open Seats and High Stakes: A Look at Maryland’s 2026 County Executive Races
The 2026 election cycle in Maryland will significantly impact local government, with eight counties electing new county executives due to open seats from term limits and retirements. Key races, particularly in larger, Democratic-leaning areas, will shape policy on budgets, land use, and education, driving higher voter turnout.
MD-06 GOP Candidate Burnett Highlights National Security Credentials After Syria Strikes
As the MD-06 primary takes shape, Republican candidate Chris Burnett is highlighting his national security credentials following recent U.S. strikes against ISIS in Syria.
Maryland’s Crime Decline Raises a Harder Question for 2026: What Policies Should Stay in Place?
A political clash between Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Republican Delegate Mark Fisher reveals a debate over the state’s declining crime rates. Moore credits his comprehensive public safety strategy, while Fisher attributes the decline to federal immigration enforcement. The discussion highlights differing narratives on the effectiveness of policing policies as crime numbers see significant reductions.
How the Story Changed: What the Glen Burnie ICE Shooting Reveals About Narrative, Scrutiny, and Accountability
Police later contradicted key elements of ICE’s initial account of the Glen Burnie shooting — forcing a federal revision and raising questions about transparency and trust.
Maryland’s Judicial Discipline System Shows Rare Transparency as Virginia Moves Backward
Maryland distinguishes itself in the Mid-Atlantic for its transparent handling of judicial misconduct, contrasting with Virginia’s recent return to secrecy. The Commission on Judicial Disabilities publicly shares details of serious allegations, exemplified by the removal of Judge April T. Ademiluyi for egregious misconduct, reinforcing public accountability in the judicial system.
Baltimore County Lawsuit Alleges Illegal Protective Orders and Years-Long Separation of Father and Son
A civil lawsuit filed by Jeff Reichert, a disabled Army veteran, contends he has been separated from his son for nearly four years due to misuse of protective orders and systemic failures. The suit seeks to clarify the validity of these orders and address his rights as a parent, including potential monetary damages.
Public Safety or Political Statement? ICE Cooperation Becomes a Flashpoint in Maryland’s 2026 Session
A recent social media post by Maryland Republican delegate Matt Morgan reignited the debate on cooperation between state facilities and federal immigration enforcement regarding serious criminals. While Democrats argue such cooperation erodes community trust, Republicans contend it is essential for public safety. The ongoing discussions highlight the complexity of immigration policy in relation to crime.
Maryland’s FairVote: Nonpartisan in Name, Ideological in Practice?
FairVote, a nonprofit advocating for ranked-choice voting (RCV), faces scrutiny over its funding sources, which largely stem from left-leaning foundations. Critics argue that RCV campaigns are often financially driven by elite donors rather than grassroots movements. Concerns arise over whether such reforms genuinely reflect voter needs or impose external influence.
DECADE Act or Déjà Vu? Wes Moore’s Business Plan Revives Incentives—but Avoids Real Reform
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore introduced the DECADE Act of 2026, aiming to boost job growth through extended tax credits and incentives. Critics argue it recycles old strategies without addressing fundamental issues like high taxes and regulatory burdens, leading to skepticism about its effectiveness in improving Maryland’s competitiveness and economic growth.
Wootton High School Closure Put on Hold After Community Uproar at MCPS Board
At a Montgomery County Public Schools Board meeting, community members rallied against “Option H,” which proposes relocating Wootton High School to Crown High School. Critics argue it disrupts established feeder patterns, increases costs, and undermines community identity. No decision has been made yet, with further recommendations expected in March 2026.
Frederick Officials Condemn Federal Enforcement — But Offer Few Answers on Local Responsibility
Frederick officials condemned federal immigration enforcement in a sweeping statement — but offered few specifics on local responsibility, coordination, or the limits of municipal authority.
David Trone Is Back on TV — Again. What’s Actually Different This Time?
Maryland’s TV airwaves are already flooded with David Trone ads, reviving familiar questions about money, ambition, and representation. After abandoning his House seat for a failed Senate run, Trone is back — armed with another early ad blitz in a gerrymandered district that still sidelines rural Maryland. What, if anything, is actually different this time?
Maryland Republicans Lay Out 2026 Legislative Agenda: A Minority Party Betting on Affordability and Accountability
As the Maryland General Assembly starts its 2026 session on January 14, Republicans, led by Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey and Minority Whip Justin Ready, aim to combat fiscal irresponsibility with a focus on affordability, public safety, and accountability. They emphasize no new taxes, scrutinize education spending, and advocate for enhanced utility policies amidst a…
Annapolis Braces for a Defining Session as Budget Reality Collides With Big Promises
The Maryland General Assembly’s 2026 session, starting January 14, faces a $1.5 billion budget deficit. Governor Wes Moore emphasizes investments in key sectors without raising taxes, while Republicans stress affordability and fiscal responsibility. Competing priorities include immigration enforcement and housing reform, raising concerns about Maryland’s economic stability and future direction.
Maryland’s Property Tax Squeeze: How Wes Moore’s “No Tax Hike” Pledge Collided With Reality
In 2026, Maryland homeowners faced significant property tax increases due to aggressive reassessments initiated under Governor Wes Moore, despite officials claiming no tax rate hikes. Many residents reported valuation jumps of 20-30%, leading to frustration and criticism over fiscal management, as families grapple with rising costs amidst stagnant economic conditions.
Maryland Democrats Push Ideological Purity Test for Law Enforcement
The ICE Breaker Act of 2026, proposed by Delegate Adrian Boafo in Maryland, seeks to bar federal law enforcement officers hired after January 20, 2025, from state employment, targeting those linked to the Trump administration. Critics argue it undermines constitutional rights, disrupts police recruitment, and prioritizes ideological motives over public safety.
Maryland Volunteer Fire Departments Targeted in Alleged Multi-State Fraud Scheme
Maryland volunteer fire departments face challenges due to an alleged fraud scheme involving Darrell Cornett Jr., a Pennsylvania fire chief. Accused of taking payments for unfulfilled emergency equipment orders, Cornett’s actions have raised concerns about trust in the emergency services community. The estimated losses exceed $100,000 across multiple states.
Maryland-Based Okovate Expands Agrivoltaics Footprint With AI Acquisition
Okovate Sustainable Energy has acquired agrivoltaic modeling technology from Fundusol to optimize solar development on farmland while maintaining crop productivity. This strategic partnership aims to enhance renewable energy integration with local agriculture in Maryland, allowing farmers to benefit from solar leases without losing land for food production.
Analysis: Why Montgomery County’s Climate Action Plan Is Facing Growing Pushback
Montgomery County’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) is facing increasing opposition from conservative residents and business groups, who criticize its economic impact, overreach, and implementation strategies. Concerns include rising costs, limited consumer choice, and the perceived ineffectiveness of aggressive emissions targets. This backlash reflects deeper governance debates in the county about regulatory balance and public trust.