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In a recent development in Maryland civil practice, the state Supreme Court has issued a new ruling that will have a significant impact on how cases are handled in the state. The court's decision, which came down on March 2, 2026, addresses the issue of personal jurisdiction in civil cases.The ruling clarifies that Maryland courts have the authority to exercise personal jurisdiction over out-of-state defendants in certain circumstances. This means that individuals or businesses based outside of Maryland can be brought into the state's courts to face civil claims if they have sufficient contacts with the state.The decision is expected to streamline the legal process for plaintiffs seeking to pursue claims against out-of-state parties, as it eliminates the need for them to file lawsuits in multiple jurisdictions. It also provides clarity for defendants, who now have a clearer understanding of when they may be subject to jurisdiction in Maryland.In addition to the personal jurisdiction ruling, the Maryland Supreme Court also issued guidelines for the use of virtual court proceedings in civil cases. As technology continues to play a larger role in the legal system, the court's guidelines aim to ensure that virtual hearings are conducted fairly and effectively.The guidelines outline procedures for setting up virtual courtrooms, conducting remote depositions, and managing exhibits and evidence in a virtual environment. They also address issues related to security and confidentiality, to protect the rights of all parties involved in civil proceedings.Overall, these recent developments in Maryland civil practice reflect the state's commitment to modernizing its legal system and ensuring access to justice for all residents. By clarifying the rules surrounding personal jurisdiction and providing guidance on virtual court proceedings, the Maryland Supreme Court is helping to bring the state's civil practice in line with the realities of the 21st century.