Maryland § 8-409

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-409, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 8-409.

    (a)    This section sets forth the exclusive procedure by which a party in a criminal case may challenge a jury on the ground that the jury was not summoned or otherwise selected in compliance with this title.

    (b)    (1)    Before examination begins in a criminal case or, for good cause shown, after a jury is sworn but before it receives evidence, a party may move to dismiss a charging document or stay the case on the ground of substantial failure to comply with a provision of this title in selecting the grand or trial jury.

        (2)    A motion under this section shall contain a sworn statement of facts that, if true, would constitute a substantial failure to comply with this title.

    (c)    On a showing that a party needs access to a record to prepare for a hearing on a motion pending under this section, a trial judge may allow the party to inspect and copy a record as needed to prepare.

    (d)    A movant who files a motion in accordance with this section is entitled to present relevant evidence in support of the motion, including:

        (1)    The testimony of the jury commissioner; and

        (2)    Relevant records, whether or not public, that the jury commissioner used.

    (e)    (1)    If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a grand jury, the judge shall:

            (i)    Stay the case pending selection of a grand jury in compliance with this title; or

            (ii)    Dismiss the charging document.

        (2)    If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with a provision other than § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a grand jury and finds the failure likely to be prejudicial to the movant, the judge shall:

            (i)    Stay the case pending selection of a grand jury in compliance with this title; or

            (ii)    Dismiss the charging document.

    (f)    (1)    If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury, the trial judge shall stay the case pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.

        (2)    If a trial judge finds a substantial failure to comply with a provision other than § 8-102(b) of this title in selecting a trial jury and the failure is likely to be prejudicial to the movant, the trial judge shall stay the proceeding pending selection of a trial jury in compliance with this title.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-409

What does Maryland Code § 8-409 cover?

Section 8-409 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 8-409?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-409" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 8-409 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.