Case Caption
Include court name, county, case number, and complete party names. An accurate caption is required for clerk acceptance and links the request to the underlying complaint or petition.
A correctly prepared Request for Order of Default documents nonresponse, preserves rights to judgment or relief, and reduces repeated follow‑up. It creates a clear administrative record for clerk action and supports enforceable court orders if the default is entered.
Typical filers include plaintiffs, plaintiff attorneys, and court clerks preparing default entries in civil cases in Maryland jurisdictions.
An individual plaintiff typically initiates the Request for Order of Default when the defendant fails to timely answer. The plaintiff must provide proof of service and an affidavit showing lack of response. Accurate case caption and service dates are essential to avoid denial.
Firm counsel prepares the Request for Order of Default aligned with Maryland Rules and local standing orders. Counsel often attaches a proposed order and assists with service, ensuring the clerk has the affidavits and case history needed for entry or a default hearing.
Include court name, county, case number, and complete party names. An accurate caption is required for clerk acceptance and links the request to the underlying complaint or petition.
Attach a sworn affidavit or certificate showing date, method, and recipient of service. Use statutory language to prove service under Maryland procedural rules.
Provide a concise declaration that the defendant has not answered within the prescribed time, citing the missed deadline and any extensions that were granted.
Specify damages, default judgment, costs, attorney fees, or equitable relief sought. Include calculations or exhibit references for monetary awards.
Attach a clear proposed order the judge can sign, with entry language, awarded amounts, and directions for enforcement or further proceedings.
Add a separate certificate confirming who was served, how service occurred, and the date; clerks typically require this for processing default entries.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication Method | Email link with SMS code |
| Document Format | PDF/A recommended for court filings |
| Attachments | Affidavits, proposed order, proof of service |
| Routing | Sequential signer order or internal review |
Many courts accept electronically prepared documents; eSubmission and eSign compatibility reduce processing time and errors when implemented correctly.
Typically 30 days after service, subject to local rule
Must be filed promptly after default entry
Court may set deadline for hearing within weeks
Clerk entry may take several business days
Post-judgment appeals and motions follow Maryland appellate rules
Draft request, attach affidavit, and prepare proposed order.
File with the clerk in the county where the case is pending.
Complete service and obtain signed affidavit or certificate of service.
Clerk may enter default or judge may schedule a hearing for relief.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card required | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Save signed documents as PDF/A for archival and court compatibility. Keep a copy in PDF and original source format for internal records and redaction if needed.
Attach sworn affidavits, contracts, invoices, and proof of service as labeled exhibits. Include exhibit tabs or a table of contents for clerk review.
Store long-term copies in a secure repository with tamper evidence and audit trail. Maintain access logs and exportable certificates of completion.
If affidavits require notarization, obtain required acknowledgements or RON where permitted, and include notary blocks on the affidavit document.