The 5th County Circuit Court handles criminal and juvenile matters as well as large civil cases. Any jury trial in the court's jurisdiction takes place in the Circuit Court.

Name changes, adoptions and matters of paternity and guardianship are also handled at the Circuit Court.

The Ciruit Court Clerk issues business licenses, administers oaths to a number of municipal officials and officiates marriages. The Clerk's office dates back to the mid 17th Century, making it one of the oldest public offices in the state of Maryland. 

No cameras, cell phones or other communication devices are allowed inside the building.