Commissioner - Worcester County District Court

Position Overview

The District Court Commissioner serves as a judicial officer responsible for reviewing Applications for Statement of Charges related to criminal cases brought by the public and police for filing in the District Court. Based on probable cause, the Commissioner may authorize a Criminal Summons or an Arrest Warrant. This role includes assessing probable cause for police on-view arrests, determining pre-trial release conditions, accepting bail bond payments or other sureties for detainees, and handling civil petitions for interim Peace and Protective Orders when courts are closed.

Work Environment and Schedule

The role requires presence in various facilities such as District Court buildings, police stations, and Central Booking centers. Employees might encounter individuals who are hostile, emotionally distressed, or unwell. Commissioners work Wednesday through Saturday, 8:00pm to 6:00am shifts (10 hours), and must be ready for emergency call-ins, including during inclement weather or emergencies when other state offices are closed. The position is considered essential with at-will employment status.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary is $68,227 with a $3 hourly differential for hours between 5:00pm and 7:00am.
• Eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid holidays and leave, tuition assistance, continuing education, employee assistance programs, and state retirement and pension plans.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is mandatory.
• Residence in the county or a contiguous Maryland county is required; Baltimore City residents must apply only for Baltimore City District Court.
• Commissioners must follow the Code of Ethics for Judicial Appointees, abstain from political activities such as running for office or endorsing candidates, and may face restrictions on outside work or volunteering.
• Upon hiring, must obtain CPR certification and maintain it with renewal every 24 months.
• Must obtain and regularly renew NCIC CN5 certification to conduct criminal record checks every 24 months.
• Proven proficiency in personal computing and efficient typing skills are essential.
• Strong interpersonal skills and professional conduct are required.
• Ability to apply legal and administrative regulations to make decisions independently.
• Flexibility to work shifts, holidays, weekends and be available around the clock as essential personnel.

Application Process

Applications must comprehensively detail relevant education, experience, dates, and duties. Incomplete applications, resumes alone, or submissions after the closing date of July 15, 2026, will not be considered. Only candidates meeting eligibility and qualifications will be contacted. For questions, potential applicants may reach out to Talent Acquisition via email.

Equal Opportunity and Work Conditions

The Maryland Judiciary is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Discrimination on the basis of protected characteristics is prohibited. Candidates requiring ADA accommodations during application or interview processes should contact the appropriate email or phone number. Employment requires U.S. citizenship or eligibility to work in the U.S. The Judiciary maintains a drug-free workplace.