Md. R. Jud. & Judi. Appts. 18-102.5

As amended through October 15, 2024

Rule 18-102.5 - Competence, Diligence, and Cooperation (Aba 2.5)

(a) A judge shall perform judicial and administrative duties competently, diligently, promptly, and without favoritism or nepotism.

(b) A judge shall cooperate with other judges and court officials in the administration of court business.

(c) A judge shall not wilfully fail to comply with administrative rules or reasonable directives of a judge with supervisory authority.

Md. R. Jud. & Judi. Appts. 18-102.5

This Rule is derived from former Rule 2.5 of Rule 16-813(2016).

Adopted June 6, 2016, eff. 7/1/2016.

COMMENT

[1] Competence in the performance of judicial duties requires the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and preparation reasonably necessary to perform a judge's responsibilities of judicial office.

[2] A judge should seek the necessary docket time, court staff, expertise, and resources to discharge all adjudicative and administrative responsibilities.

[3] Prompt disposition of the court's business requires a judge to devote adequate time to judicial duties, to be punctual in attending court and expeditious in determining matters under submission, and to take reasonable measures to ensure that court officials, litigants, and their attorneys cooperate with the judge to that end.

[4] In disposing of matters promptly and efficiently, a judge must demonstrate due regard for the rights of parties to be heard and to have issues resolved without unnecessary cost or delay. A judge should monitor and supervise cases in ways that reduce or eliminate dilatory practices, avoidable delays, and unnecessary costs.