Structure

The Courts

The District Court is the court of first instance for criminal and civil matters, benched by Judges and Magistrates. The Supreme Court hears cases appealed from the District Court.
First instance

District Court

The trial court of the State. It hears civil claims between persons, criminal matters brought by the Department of Justice, and applications to expunge arrest, charge and custody records. It is led by the Chief Judge of the District Court and administered by the District Clerk.

  • Civil — MF-DC-CIV-YYYY-####
  • Criminal — MF-DC-CRIM-YYYY-####
  • Expungement — MF-EXP-YYYY-####
  • Warrants — MF-WAR-YYYY-####
Appellate

Supreme Court

The court of final appeal. It hears appeals from the District Court, with or without leave, including interlocutory appeals against decisions made before final judgment. Representation is by members of the Supreme Court Bar, or by writ of certiorari at the Court's discretion. It is led by the Chief Justice and administered by the Supreme Clerk.

  • Appeals — MF-SC-APP-YYYY-####
Legal community

Who else is in the courtroom

Department of Justice

Represents the Government in all legal matters up to the Supreme Court. Headed by an elected Attorney General.

The State Bar

Provides and approves the legal curriculum, inducts new attorneys, and regulates their firms and practices within the State.

Right to counsel

If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Court appoints one; the Judge checks and arranges counsel where needed. You may knowingly waive this right, or represent yourself if the Court allows. See the Rules of Criminal Procedure.

Court instruments

Rules of Procedure