Family Law - Marriage Ceremony - Designation of Deputy Clerk

This bill transfers the authority to appoint a deputy clerk who can perform marriage ceremonies from the county administrative judge to the clerk of the circuit court in Maryland. Previously, the administrative judge designated these deputies, but under the new law, the clerk of the circuit court will make this appointment directly. The change applies to all counties in the state and allows designated deputy clerks to legally officiate weddings alongside judges and religious officials. The provision officially takes effect on October 1, 2024.