Carter Leah, Author at Franchot https://www.franchot.com/author/leah-carter/ Maryland Political Blog Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:14:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.franchot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/cropped-public-5478139_640-32x32.png Carter Leah, Author at Franchot https://www.franchot.com/author/leah-carter/ 32 32 The Future of Online Gambling: Trends, Regulation, and Affiliate Opportunities https://www.franchot.com/the-future-of-online-gambling-trends-regulation-and-affiliate-opportunities/ Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:14:18 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=138 The online gambling industry has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, with millions of players engaging in betting, gaming, and casino activities from their computers and mobile devices. As the sector continues to expand, it faces increasing pressure from both regulators and consumers to ensure that its growth is sustainable, […]

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The online gambling industry has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, with millions of players engaging in betting, gaming, and casino activities from their computers and mobile devices. As the sector continues to expand, it faces increasing pressure from both regulators and consumers to ensure that its growth is sustainable, ethical, and responsible. With new technologies, regulations, and shifting consumer behavior, the future of online gambling promises both opportunities and challenges for operators and affiliates alike. Affiliate programs like G.Partners play a pivotal role in this dynamic, helping ensure that affiliates promote gambling responsibly while adhering to legal and ethical standards. In this article, we’ll explore the emerging trends shaping the online gambling industry, how government regulations impact the sector, and how affiliates can capitalize on new opportunities while promoting responsible gambling practices.

The Rise of Mobile Gambling

Mobile gambling is one of the most significant trends in the iGaming sector. With the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, players now have easy access to their favorite gambling platforms wherever they go. Mobile gaming apps allow for a seamless, on-the-go experience, making it easier than ever to place bets or play casino games.

This trend presents unique opportunities for affiliates to target mobile-first audiences. Optimizing content for mobile users, offering app downloads, and focusing on mobile-specific features can help affiliates attract a broader audience. As mobile gaming continues to rise in popularity, affiliate programs that offer app-based promotions or exclusive mobile bonuses will have a competitive edge.

The Role of Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies are making a significant impact on the online gambling landscape. Blockchain offers enhanced transparency, security, and fairness for players, making it increasingly popular among those seeking a more trustworthy gambling experience. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others provide players with a secure and anonymous way to make deposits and withdrawals, reducing friction in transactions and ensuring privacy.

For affiliates, promoting online casinos and gambling platforms that accept cryptocurrency is becoming more important. Players are increasingly looking for platforms that offer fast, secure, and anonymous transactions, and affiliates who can guide them to these options stand to benefit. Additionally, blockchain’s ability to ensure fairness and transparency could help rebuild trust among players in an industry that has sometimes been seen as opaque.

Regulatory Changes and Their Impact on the Gambling Market

As the online gambling industry continues to grow, governments around the world are stepping up their efforts to regulate the sector. While some countries have embraced online gambling, others have imposed strict regulations or outright bans. These regulations often focus on consumer protection, anti-money laundering efforts, and responsible gambling practices.

For affiliates, navigating these regulatory landscapes is crucial. Affiliates must stay informed about local laws and ensure that they are promoting legal and licensed platforms in the markets they target. Additionally, affiliates need to be aware of advertising restrictions that limit how gambling brands can market to certain demographics, such as minors or vulnerable populations.

In regions where online gambling is still restricted or unregulated, affiliates must be cautious about promoting platforms that operate in legal gray areas. The key to long-term success in the affiliate marketing space is to work with reputable operators who comply with local laws and provide a safe environment for players.

Responsible Gambling and Social Responsibility

As the online gambling market grows, so does the need for social responsibility. Responsible gambling practices are essential in ensuring that players enjoy gambling as a form of entertainment without falling victim to addiction or other harmful behaviors. Many gambling operators are now required by law to offer self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and resources for players who may be struggling with gambling addiction.

Affiliates play a crucial role in promoting responsible gambling. They must ensure that the platforms they promote are transparent about their responsible gambling measures and that they are adhering to ethical marketing practices. By aligning with brands that prioritize player safety, affiliates contribute to the integrity of the industry and help ensure that gambling remains a fun and safe activity.

Affiliate Marketing in the Future of Online Gambling

Affiliate marketing will continue to play a key role in the future of online gambling. As new technologies emerge and markets evolve, affiliate programs will need to adapt to keep up with shifting trends. Affiliates will need to stay on top of the latest developments in mobile gambling, blockchain, and cryptocurrency in order to effectively target players and drive traffic to their partner platforms.

One of the most significant opportunities for affiliates will be the ability to promote customized gambling experiences. As more casinos and gambling sites incorporate personalized content, such as tailored promotions or unique game selections, affiliates can leverage this to create targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with specific player segments.

Additionally, the growth of esports betting presents new avenues for affiliate marketers. As esports becomes more mainstream, betting on esports events is expected to increase dramatically. Affiliates who focus on esports-related content and promotions can tap into this growing market and position themselves as experts in this niche.

Conclusion

The future of online gambling is filled with exciting opportunities and challenges. As the industry evolves, new technologies like mobile gaming, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies will reshape the landscape, offering affiliates new ways to engage players. However, with these opportunities come increased regulatory scrutiny and the need for affiliates to ensure that they promote responsible gambling practices.

By staying informed about emerging trends, adapting to regulatory changes, and focusing on social responsibility, affiliates can thrive in the ever-changing world of online gambling. The key to success in this space is to remain flexible, innovative, and committed to providing value to both players and operators.

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The Ethics of Online Gambling and Government Policy: A Deep Dive https://www.franchot.com/the-ethics-of-online-gambling-and-government-policy-a-deep-dive/ Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:12:30 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=135 Online gambling has grown exponentially in recent years, with millions of players across the globe engaging in sports betting, casino games, and poker. While it offers a wealth of entertainment and potential financial gains, the morality and ethics of online gambling are often called into question. This becomes even more […]

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Online gambling has grown exponentially in recent years, with millions of players across the globe engaging in sports betting, casino games, and poker. While it offers a wealth of entertainment and potential financial gains, the morality and ethics of online gambling are often called into question. This becomes even more complex when examining the role of government policies and legislative initiatives that regulate the industry.

In this article, we will explore the ethical dimensions of online gambling, the influence of governmental regulations on the industry, and the impact on affiliate programs such as Boomerang Partners. These topics are highly relevant, as governments and policy makers across the world seek to strike a balance between fostering economic growth and ensuring player protection and social responsibility.

The Ethical Dilemma of Online Gambling

Gambling, in any form, has long been a subject of moral and ethical debates. Historically, societies have grappled with the risks of addiction, the potential for financial ruin, and the negative impact on families and communities. Online gambling, with its easy access, anonymity, and wide array of options, has heightened these concerns.

However, there are also arguments in favor of the ethics of online gambling. Advocates point out that, when regulated, online gambling provides entertainment and job opportunities for millions. It can also contribute significantly to local economies, especially through tax revenues and the creation of jobs in the digital marketing and tech sectors.

For the gambling industry to thrive while maintaining ethical standards, it is essential that operators and affiliates act responsibly. This includes ensuring that they implement responsible gambling measures, such as setting deposit limits and providing self-exclusion options. Additionally, affiliates must promote gambling in a way that is transparent, honest, and respects the integrity of their audiences.

The Role of Government Policy in Regulating Online Gambling

Government intervention in online gambling typically aims to protect consumers, prevent addiction, and curb illegal gambling activities. The regulation of online gambling can vary widely from country to country, and within the United States, for example, each state has its own set of rules and regulations.

The ethical implications of government regulation are clear. On one hand, lawmakers must protect vulnerable individuals from the dangers of gambling addiction. On the other hand, they must also ensure that the industry remains competitive and can contribute positively to the economy.

In many jurisdictions, gambling is heavily taxed, with a percentage of revenues directed toward community development, education, and addiction support programs. In some cases, tax revenues from legalized gambling help fund public initiatives, like improving infrastructure or increasing funding for healthcare.

The regulatory environment also influences how affiliate programs, such as, operate. Affiliates play an integral role in the iGaming ecosystem by directing traffic to gambling platforms. Government regulations impact the types of marketing campaigns that affiliates can use, the target demographics, and even the promotional offers they can advertise.

Government Impact on Affiliate Programs and Local Economies

When governments pass new gambling regulations, they directly influence affiliate programs by imposing restrictions or providing new opportunities for growth. For example, in the United States, the regulation of online sports betting has opened up a wealth of opportunities for affiliates to market to a wider audience. In states where online gambling is legal, affiliate programs benefit from higher conversion rates as a larger number of consumers engage with regulated gambling platforms.

However, in regions where gambling is still restricted or in the gray market, affiliate programs must navigate complex legal landscapes. Affiliates must ensure they remain compliant with local laws while still promoting gambling services. This can sometimes involve marketing through alternative channels or focusing on regions where online gambling is fully legal.

In addition to the direct economic benefits, the role of affiliate programs extends to creating employment opportunities. The rise of digital marketing, web development, and content creation industries are all tied to the growth of the iGaming market. From SEO specialists to content creators and affiliate managers, the gambling industry supports thousands of jobs across the globe.

Social Responsibility and the Role of Affiliates

A key consideration for both gambling operators and affiliates is social responsibility. With the growing awareness of gambling addiction, it is imperative that all stakeholders within the industry work to mitigate the potential negative impact of gambling.

Affiliate programs play a crucial role in ensuring that ethical marketing practices are followed. Affiliates must promote gambling products in a way that is transparent, responsible, and considers the well-being of players. They should provide information on the risks of gambling addiction and offer resources for players seeking help.

In this context, government regulations that enforce ethical marketing practices help create a healthier gambling environment. For example, many countries require gambling operators and affiliates to implement self-exclusion programs, ensure advertising is not targeting minors, and promote responsible gaming messages across their platforms.

Conclusion

The ethical implications of online gambling and the role of government policy in regulating the industry are complex. Governments must balance consumer protection with fostering a thriving, competitive market. In the context of affiliate programs, the challenge lies in navigating regulatory landscapes while promoting responsible gambling practices.

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Maryland youth policy https://www.franchot.com/maryland-youth-policy/ Sun, 14 Jan 2024 10:13:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=66 Youth engagement is a powerful way for organizations serving children and families to engage the young people they serve in advancing their work.

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Youth engagement is a powerful way for organizations serving children and families to engage the young people they serve in advancing their work. Youth engagement offers the expertise and partnership of young people to help adults fully understand what it is like to grow up in a rapidly changing world, navigating the diverse systems and policies that impact young people’s lives every day.

Successful youth engagement strategies provide young people with opportunities to gain work experience, acquire new skills, and learn responsibility and accountability – all while making a positive contribution to their communities. From a policy perspective, youth civic participation is also critical to preparing young people for active citizenship and is a strong indicator of economic empowerment.

As the Governor’s Office for Children and the Cabinet for Children explore how best to achieve Governor Hogan’s four strategic goals, it is vital that young people are included in discussions about service improvements, policy decisions, and increasing access to quality services. For example, research shows that civic engagement among youth, including unpaid volunteerism, can halve the likelihood of youth becoming disconnected. In addition, Job Corps sites that implement youth engagement strategies, including youth councils, youth decision-making bodies, and youth surveys, have had better employment and educational outcomes than those that have not. Finally, civic engagement can help low-income youth build social capital and find meaningful education and career pathways, as well as increase the economic resilience of a region.

Maryland provides opportunities for youth to have a voice through a variety of state and local boards and organizations, including but not limited to:

  • Maryland Youth Advisory Council (coordinated by the Governor’s Office for Children);
  • Maryland Association of Student Councils;
  • Maryland Higher Education Commission – Student Advisory Council;
  • Student Council of the University System of Maryland;
  • Student member of the Board of Education;
  • State Advisory Council of the Department of Juvenile Justice;
  • Department of Human Resources State Youth Advisory Council;
  • Youth Council of the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Delinquency Prevention;
  • Maryland 4-H State Council;
  • Taking a flight of the youth council.

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Partnership relations https://www.franchot.com/partnership-relations/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 10:07:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=63 The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and New Mexico State University

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The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and New Mexico State University, is supporting DNA4 Technologies in Baltimore, Maryland, a genomics and bioinformatics company dedicated to the accurate identification of natural products, to develop methods for extracting, isolating, and analyzing wood DNA from commercially traded species. These methods aim to provide customs and law enforcement agencies and the private sector with a reliable means of identifying wood species in commerce and preventing illegal forest products from entering the U.S. supply chain.

The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and New Mexico State University, is supporting DNA4Technolgies of Baltimore, Maryland, a genomic and bioinformatics company dedicated to the accurate identification of natural products, in developing methods to extract, isolate, and analyze wood DNA from commercially traded species. These methods are aimed at helping customs and law enforcement agencies and the private sector with a reliable means of identifying wood species in commerce and preventing illegal forest products from entering the U.S. supply chain.

Researchers from Goddard Space Flight Center, Johns Hopkins University, the National Cancer Institute, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the National Institutes of Health, and the University of Maryland have received grants from the U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF), which supports OES, to conduct joint research projects with Israeli scientists. BSF research funding, selected through a peer-review process, contributes to the development of our bilateral relationship and shared research priorities.

Maryland companies have received grants from the U.S.-Israeli Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Fund, which is supported by OES, to establish joint ventures with Israeli companies. The BIRD funding, selected through a competitive process, creates mutually beneficial cooperation between U.S. and Israeli companies.

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Impact of federal policy on state cases https://www.franchot.com/impact-of-federal-policy-on-state-cases/ Tue, 26 Dec 2023 09:53:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=56 States in the United States often feel the direct impact of federal policies on their internal affairs. While states have a degree of autonomy in many area

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States in the United States often feel the direct impact of federal policies on their internal affairs. While states have a degree of autonomy in many areas, the actions of the federal government can have a significant impact on their economies, social programs, legislation, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the key aspects of this influence and the challenges states like Maryland face.

Fiscal Impact

One of the most tangible ways that federal policy affects states is through the distribution of federal funds. States often depend on federal grants and subsidies to fund a variety of programs, including education, health care, transportation, and welfare. Changes in the federal budget or legislation can have serious consequences for a state’s financial well-being.

Regulatory Impact

Federal laws and regulations can also have a significant impact on a state’s economy and business environment. For example, changes in federal tax policies or requirements for compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations could affect local businesses and entrepreneurs in Maryland.

Social programs and legislation

Federal legislation can also affect social programs provided by states. For example, changes in federal health or welfare legislation may require states to change their laws and budgets to comply with the new requirements.

Policy Priorities and Conflicts

Sometimes the policy priorities of the federal government may not align with the interests and priorities of a particular state. This can lead to political conflicts and confrontation between the state and federal governments, making it difficult to effectively manage and solve problems at the local level.

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Political trends and changes in Maryland society https://www.franchot.com/political-trends-and-changes-in-maryland-society/ Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:58:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=60 The State of Maryland, with its rich history and diverse culture, remains one of the most dynamic political landscapes in the United States.

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The State of Maryland, with its rich history and diverse culture, remains one of the most dynamic political landscapes in the United States. In recent years, there have been several important trends and societal changes that impact Maryland’s political landscape.

Demographic Changes

One of the key trends is the demographic changes that are shaping the state’s society. Maryland continues to attract new residents from across the U.S. and beyond, resulting in a more diverse and multi-ethnic population. This process may change political priorities and electoral dynamics, given the differing preferences and views of different groups.

Urban Center Development

Maryland’s urban centers, such as Baltimore and Bethesda, continue to grow and attract new residents and businesses. This process has implications for the state’s political processes, as urban communities may have different interests and needs than suburban and rural areas.

Shifts in political preferences

The political preferences of Maryland voters are also undergoing change. In recent years, the state has seen an increase in Democratic voter activism, reflected in the performance of Democratic candidates in elections for various levels of government. However, there has also been an increase in Republican voter activism in some areas, creating new political dynamics and challenges for both parties.

Public health and supply issues

Recent events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and rising housing prices, have underscored the need to address important public health, housing affordability, and social welfare issues in Maryland. These issues have become a topic of discussion among political leaders and the public alike, and may become key themes in upcoming elections and policy decisions.

Overall, political trends and changes in Maryland society continue to shape the state’s political scene and influence its development and direction. Understanding these trends and considering their impact is essential to developing effective policies and responding to the changing needs and priorities of Marylanders.

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Analyzing political events and decisions made by local political leaders https://www.franchot.com/analyzing-political-events-and-decisions-made-by-local-political-leaders/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:48:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=53 In recent months, the political atmosphere in the state of Maryland has remained eventful with events and decisions made by local political leaders.

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In recent months, the political atmosphere in the state of Maryland has remained eventful with events and decisions made by local political leaders. From policy debates to bills affecting various aspects of citizens’ lives, every action taken by political figures has had repercussions and elicited a wide range of reactions.

One of the key events was the passage of the education reform bill put forward by the state’s governor. This law has sparked a lively debate in the community as it proposed sweeping changes to school funding and methods of assessing student performance. Those supporting the law argue that it is a necessary step toward improving the quality of education in the state, while its opponents have raised concerns about possible negative effects on school programs and teachers.

Another major development was the dramatic increase in property taxes adopted by municipal governments in some parts of the state. The move has sparked serious protests from residents who believe the new tax rates are excessive and unfair. However, political leaders who support this tax hike argue that it is necessary to ensure funding for social programs and improve the quality of life in areas that need additional support.

In addition, recent environmental and conservation decisions have also garnered public attention. The recently passed law banning the use of single-use plastics has generated mixed reactions, with some supporting the move as an important step toward environmental protection, while others have raised concerns about its impact on local businesses and jobs.

Overall, political developments and decisions made by local leaders in Maryland continue to stimulate public debate and generate controversy. In a dynamic political scene, it is important for citizens to stay informed and actively participate in the discussions and decisions that affect their lives and the future of the state.

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Democracy at its best https://www.franchot.com/democracy-at-its-best/ Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:22:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=50 Maryland Y Youth & Government is a special program specifically designed to give high school students a hands-on lesson in how government works.

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Maryland Y Youth & Government is a special program specifically designed to give high school students a hands-on lesson in how government works. Teens will learn how to elect their own leaders, debate, pass laws, and lobby for their vision of a better future!

The program is open to all Maryland high school students, no matter how little you know about government and the legislative process. We’ll teach you everything you need to know as your efforts culminate in a 3-day mock legislative assembly at the Maryland Statehouse in Annapolis!

And while you’re developing your servant leadership skills, your whole family can enjoy being part of a supportive, active, and caring Y community. All families participating in Y Youth & Government receive a Y Family Membership included with registration! Membership is renewed free of charge for the duration of your participation in the program.

Students (called delegates) from the same region or school form small groups (called delegations) that meet weekly or bi-weekly under the guidance of an adult advisor.

Each delegate will choose a programmatic role to play during the mock legislative assembly. They will learn how to fulfill the responsibilities of their role through weekly/twice-weekly meetings and a series of training conferences.

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Local government https://www.franchot.com/local-government/ Sun, 03 Sep 2023 09:07:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=46 At the local level, Maryland stands out among the US states for its relatively small number of local governments.

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At the local level, Maryland stands out among the US states for its relatively small number of local governments. Three forms of county government are available to the counties in the state. Note that the independent city of Baltimore is generally considered to be the same as the counties; for census purposes, it is considered the equivalent of a county. Including Baltimore, there are 157 incorporated cities in Maryland.

Commissioner’s districts

In 1827, the General Assembly authorized elected boards of county commissioners for each county. According to the state constitution, the General Assembly retains full authority to enact laws for county commissioners. County commissioners have no authority to act in local affairs without the express prior consent of the General Assembly. In the areas where they do have the power to make laws, that power is narrowly construed; it is limited to areas authorized by the General Assembly, applicable law, or state local laws. The constitution, adopted in 1867, retained the power of the General Assembly to enact state local laws, giving county delegations to the General Assembly great control over county government. As a result, the General Assembly spends a great deal of time dealing with local issues, ordinances, and expenditures.

In 2010, Cecil County voters passed a resolution to become a charter district and subsequently elected Tari Moore as the county’s first executive director.

Charter counties

Partly because the state legislature spent a lot of time dealing with local issues, the Maryland Constitution was amended in 1915 to allow counties to operate under a charter form of government with significant self-governance powers. In order to adopt this form of government, the voters of a county must approve a charter drafted by their charter board.

Charter districts are governed by an elected county board, which has the power to enact laws on almost all local matters. Their powers are interpreted broadly, although the General Assembly retains the authority to regulate elections, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages. The General Assembly also retains significant taxing authority, with the exception of Baltimore and Montgomery counties. Some counties that operate under a charter have a separately elected county executive, while others give executive functions along with legislative functions to a county council.

County home rule codes

Because of the reluctance of many counties to adopt the charter form of government, despite the fact that they desired some degree of self-government, the Maryland Constitution was again amended in 1966 to create a third class of county government, the status of “code self-government.” If two-thirds of the county commissioners pass a resolution that the county become a code county and a majority of the voters approve the resolution, the county becomes a code county. In a code county, the county commissioners have the powers of self-government and can enact legislation in the areas of “express powers” of charter counties. In addition, commissioners retain all the powers of commissioners in commissioner districts. However, charter counties are subject to stricter debt limits than charter counties. The General Assembly can only enact laws for code counties as a class.

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About the judiciary https://www.franchot.com/about-the-judiciary/ Sat, 19 Aug 2023 08:54:00 +0000 https://www.franchot.com/?p=39 The Maryland Supreme Court is the highest court in the state. In addition to being the court of last resort for the state

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Supreme Court

The Maryland Supreme Court is the highest court in the state. In addition to being the court of last resort for the state, the Supreme Court also administers the state’s court system and sets rules and guidelines. It has original jurisdiction in only a few areas and hears most cases on appeal. Until 2022, the Supreme Court was called the Court of Appeals, but a 2022 constitutional amendment changed the name to its current title. The court has seven justices, one from each of the state’s seven appellate judicial districts, which are currently as follows:

  • 1st Appellate Judicial District: Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester counties;
  • 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals: Baltimore County and Harford County;
  • 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals: Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, and Washington Counties;
  • 4th Circuit Court of Appeals: Prince George’s County;
  • 5th Judicial Circuit of Appeals: Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties;
  • 6th Circuit Court of Appeals: Baltimore City;
  • 7th Circuit Court of Appeals: Montgomery County.

Court of appeals

In order to reduce the workload of the Supreme Court, the state’s second court, the Court of Appeals was created in 1966 by a constitutional amendment. Except as otherwise provided by law, the Court of Appeals has exclusive appellate jurisdiction over any judgment, decree, order, or other action of the circuit court or orphans’ court that is subject to review, except for appeals in criminal cases in which the death penalty is imposed. It usually reviews cases appealed from district courts. Until 2022, the Court of Appeal was called the Special Court of Appeal, but a 2022 constitutional amendment changed its name to the current one.

Judges of the Court of Appeal have the right to sit in panels of three. A hearing or rehearing of a case en banc, in which all the judges of the Court participate, may be issued in any case by a majority of the sitting judges of the Court. The Court is composed of thirteen judges, one from each of the state’s seven judicial appellate districts and six judges in the liberal courts.

The Supreme Court and Court of Appeals judges are appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate and the approval of the people for 10-year terms. This system is similar to the Missouri plan, which is used in 11 states for judicial appointments, in that voters have the right to decide whether to retain a judge or not. However, it differs in that the governor’s choice of whom to appoint is not limited to the Judicial Selection Commission, and the state Senate must confirm the nominee before the judge takes office.

District courts

Circuit courts are the highest courts of common law and equity that exercise original jurisdiction in Maryland. Each has all the power and jurisdiction at common law and in equity in all civil and criminal matters in its county or counties, and all additional powers and jurisdiction granted by the Maryland Constitution and by law, except where jurisdiction has been limited or transferred exclusively to another court by law. Circuit courts are trial courts of general jurisdiction. Their jurisdiction is very broad, but usually covers large civil cases and more serious criminal cases. District courts can also decide appeals from the district court and certain administrative agencies. Cases may be tried by jury if the amount in controversy exceeds USD 15,000. Juries are limited to district courts.

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