Maryland’s Highest Court Orders New Hearing in ‘Serial’ Case, Reinstatement of Adnan Syed’s Conviction

Maryland’s Supreme Court has ordered a new hearing in the Adnan Syed case, the subject of the popular podcast ‘Serial.’ The court found that the 2022 hearing which freed Syed from prison violated the legal rights of Hae Min Lee’s family. The decision reverses a lower court ruling and reinstates Syed’s conviction for the murder of his ex-girlfriend. The court determined that Young Lee, Hae Min Lee’s brother, was not adequately notified of the hearing, preventing him from having a meaningful opportunity to participate. The court emphasized the importance of ensuring that crime victims have a voice and are treated with dignity and respect during legal proceedings. The case is now back in the hands of the circuit court, where a new hearing will be held, with appropriate notice given to the victim’s family.