Md. R. ADR 17-601

As amended through October 15, 2024

Rule 17-601 - Definitions; Applicability

(a)Definitions. In this Chapter:

(1) to the extent relevant, the definitions in Rule 17-102 shall apply, except that "ADR includes only mediation and settlement-conferencing; and

(2) "Chief Judge means the Chief Judge of the orphans' court for the county in which the court is located, except that, in Harford, Howard,and Montgomery Counties, "Chief Judge means the County Administrative Judge.

Committee note: Rule 17-102(a) and (d) include within the definition of "ADR arbitration and neutral fact-finding. The Committee believes that it is inappropriate for the court to order parties to resort to those forms of ADR, especially if the results of such a referral are intended to be binding. Such a referral may constitute an improper delegation of the statutory duties and responsibilities of the orphans' courts and registers of wills with respect to the administration of estates. Accordingly, ADR referrals are limited to mediation and settlement-conferencing.

(b)Applicability. The Rules in this Chapter apply only to actions and matters pending in an orphans' court that has an alternative dispute resolution program.

Md. R. ADR 17-601

This Rule is new.

Adopted April 9, 2018, eff. 7/1/2018; amended April 21, 2023, eff. 7/1/2023.