(11/2022) If you have ever needed a marriage or business license, to record a deed, mortgage or plat, take the Oath of Office to become a Notary, elected or appointed position, been involved with a criminal, civil, family, child support or juvenile case, or maybe genealogy research or jury duty, then you have used the services of your Clerk’s office!

It has been my honor to serve as your elected clerk for 24 years (6 terms). I have been proactive in the modernization and automation of many of the functions of the clerk’s office. This is a Fiduciary office and we’ve received many "no-findings" Legislative Audits. We collected over 27 million in fees in FY 21. We are the keeper of the court record, and staff 8 or more courtrooms. While we assist all those that need our services, court cases are scheduled under the court’s Assignment office. I have served as President/Chair on many committees in the Judiciary and have received the Court Executive/Manager Certification from the National Center of State Courts. I also attend many meetings in Annapolis to stay proactive in the improvements of your court and clerk’s office and testify before our Legislature on Bills that affect our processes.

This office has just celebrated 5 years of electronic filing, known as MDEC (Maryland Electronic Courts). While this program was implemented in advance of the official roll-out date, your Clerk’s office has embraced this technology and worked with the Judiciary to make necessary improvements.

Following after MDEC for court filings, SimpleFile was implemented for the electronic filing of Land documents.

Both programs enabled your Clerk’s Office to continue working throughout the Covid time period. During the shutdown, this office continued to work with a team internal to the building and the others teleworking from home. Staff also worked to bring documents online for applying for a marriage license, and implement credit card procedures to assist with filings, copies, licenses, etc. Your Clerk’s Office was never closed. Staff teamwork, creativity, and commitment was amazing. I am so proud of each of them in fulfilling our duties to serve you and our justice partners! I like to say, "this office Rocked Covid!"

My goals are the same as my past service to you and this office. Be a servant leader, always seek ways to motivate and educate staff, be proactive in moving court services forward, and expect a sincere effort from all to be the best in our field!

I hope you are pleased with my dedication and commitment to this position, staff, and You - those we serve. Thank you for this opportunity and your trust.

Please Vote Sandra K. Dalton, Clerk of the Circuit Court on November 8th, 2022. Thank you and God Bless!