The Baltimore County Bar Association represents Baltimore County's legal professionals, dedicated to setting standards for "ethical conduct, professionalism and public responsibility," as well as to improve the quality of justice serving the people.
The Association represents approximately 1,500 members and is based out of the County Courts Building.
The Orphans' Court, administered by three elected part-time judges, holds limited jurisdiction in estate disputes and guardianship of minors and assets left to them. The court is located in the New Courthouse, which also houses the circuit court and other judicial offices.
The Circuit Court for Baltimore County is located in the County Courts Building, near central Towson, and is sometimes referred to as the "New Courthouse." The old courthouse now houses the county executive and county council.
Seventeen judges, appointed by the Governor, sit on the court and serve for 15-year terms, following a competitive election. It is the only court in the county with the authority to conduct jury trials. In 2007, the court reported 32,321 total filings, including 9,874 domestic cases, 9,756 civil suits, 4,566 juvenile matters, and 8,125 criminal filings.
The district court handles some civil suits, landlord-tenant disputes, moving violations, misdemeanors and some felonies. Any case in the state may be tried there, but its district covers all of Baltimore County. The court does not provide jury trials. No cameras, cell phones, food, drinks or electronic devices are allowed inside.