Family Law - Marriage Ceremony - Designation of Deputy Clerk

This Maryland law transfers the authority to appoint deputy clerks who can perform marriage ceremonies from county administrative judges to the clerks of the circuit court. Under the new rules, these designated deputy clerks, along with judges and authorized religious officials, are legally permitted to officiate weddings within the state. The change simplifies the administrative process by allowing the clerks themselves to select the deputy clerks rather than requiring a judge to make that designation. The legislation takes effect on October 1, 2024, and applies to all counties in Maryland.