THE ADVOCATE Newsletter of The Baltimore County Bar Association VOLUME XXV, NO. 1
July 2015
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Hon. Vicki Ballou-Watts “If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?” – George Berkeley I am honored to serve as President of the Baltimore County Bar Association (BCBA) for the 201516 term. Serving as President-Elect during T. Wray McCurdy’s term as bar president was a very positive experience. We talked often about the best ways to advance BCBA’s interests and that experience has helped me to prepare for the year ahead. Having a kick-off event to begin the bar year, raising funds for the Anne Brennan Memorial Scholarship and moving the bar banquet to the newly renovated Hunt Valley Wyndham hotel with the governor as keynote speaker— these are just a few of the highlights during President McCurdy’s term. We are thankful for his leadership. In my humble opinion, the BCBA is the best local bar association in the state. A little biased? Perhaps. However, my tenure on the BCBA Executive Council over the years— from At-Large Member to
President—has afforded me the opportunity to appreciate all the wonderful benefits this association has to offer. Yet, as great as we are, we must do more to increase awareness about who we are and what we have to offer—for our members, potential members and the community. In recent years, our attendance at certain programs and activities hasn’t been as high as we had hoped. We can have the greatest Continuing Legal Education programs, Lawyer Referral Information Service (LRIS), Young Lawyers Committee, Pro and Low Bono services, Charitable Fundraising, Civics and Law Academy, networking opportunities and more, but if few people know about these activities, are we fulfilling our purpose? One of my goals as bar president is to focus on promoting the programs and services this bar association sponsors by raising our profile through The Advocate,
Program Registrations
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BCBA Receives Award Pg Calendar of Events Pg Classified Ads Pg Committee Reports Pg Court Notices Pg Criminal Law Update Pg Family Law: Atty’s Fees Pg Golf Tournament Pg Historical Perspectives Pg Hospitality Suite-O.C. Pg Lawyers Assistance Pg Pro Bono Nominations Pg Red Lipstick Racers Swim Pg Swearing In New President & Reception Pg
8 3 30 35 4 24 14 16 26 20 12 10 13 22
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1 st M a r i n e r B a n k THE ADVOCATE
Inside This Edition
Signature Sponsor
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July 2015
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Continued from page 1 regular BCBA emails to members, improvement of our website, publicity to other organizations and media outlets, encouraging our Committee Chairs to expand their listserv and, of course, person-to-person contact. We will also encourage more users to “follow” and “like” the BCBA as we post about activities, services, accomplishments and other news via a consistent message across multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We must place special emphasis on our use of social media because of changing demographics and the reality of how so many receive and share information today. When I first became a member of the Executive Council, Facebook was still primarily a social network for college students. The business community quickly recognized its potential and began building pages to connect with consumers. Today, Facebook is the most popular social media site and more than 71% of all online adults use it. In addition, 52% of all online adults use two or more social media sites to get and share important information.
comes into play in criminal and family law cases, I have a better understanding of how it works. So, if you’re not on social media yet, please join. After all, MDEC is coming to Baltimore County soon and we might as well get use to as many online technologies as possible. If you’re already on social media, please keep abreast of the great programs and services our bar association offers by following us. Be sure to “like’ or add a comment. If you post a BCBA-related photo on your own Instagram, Twitter or Facebook account, please use the hashtag #bcba2015. Our handle for Instagram and Twitter is @BaltCoBar. I’ll see you on the web! Hon. Vicki Ballou-Watts, President Baltimore County Bar Association, 2015-16
Although use of social media seems intuitive for Millennials (ages 18-34) and to a lesser but still significant extent, Generation Xers (ages 35-50), it’s been an acquired experience for Baby Boomers like me. Perhaps we’ve been slower to use social media because we’re accustom to communicating in person or by phone. Or, it could be because we’re especially concerned about privacy. Or, maybe we just didn’t understand how the thing worked! For years, I resisted too, but with the help of my now adult children – who’ve moved on to other social media platforms - I learned how to use Facebook (and other social networks) and to make privacy settings. I also learned how to “like” great Facebook group pages – including the ones administered by the Baltimore County Bar Association! As a bonus, when evidence regarding social media
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Not sure what benefits are available to you as a BCBA Member? Click the picture to the left to learn more, or call or email Doris Barnes or Maxine Morrow for more information.
July 2015
C ALENDAR
2015-16 Officers President Pres-Elect Secretary Treasurer
Hon. Vicki Ballou-Watts Robert J. Thompson Adam T. Sampson Rebecca A. Fleming
Executive Council Keith R. Truffer Michael W. Siri Jay D. Miller Stanford G. Gann Jr. John G. Turnbull III Lisa Y. Settles T. Wray McCurdy, Immediate Past President Alexander C. Steeves, YL Chair
The Advocate Laurie Wasserman, Committee Chair Doris D. Barnes Thomas S. Basham Associate Editors
The Advocate is a monthly publication of the Baltimore County Bar Association informing its members about current events relating to law. Articles do not necessarily reflect the official position of the BCBA and publication does not constitute an endorsement of views expressed. The contents of advertisements are the responsibility of the advertisers and are not recommendations or endorsements by The Advocate. Publication deadline: 5th of the month preceding publication.
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E VENTS
July 2015 1 2 3 7 8 8 10 14 14 16 20 21 21 22 22 27
Entertainment Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - West Side, 12 Noon, Double T Diner Courts & Bar Office Closed, in observance of Independence Day Membership Committee Planning Meeting, 12 noon, Mezz 08 Lawyer in the Lobby w/Volunteer Attorneys, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Long-Range Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m,., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - East Side, 12:30 p.m., Uncle Eddie’s Executive Council Meeting, 8 a.m., Judicial Conference Room 363 Professionalism Committee Meeting, 5 p.m., Proctor & McKee Portrait Dedication Honoring Judge S. Ann Brobst, 3:30 p.m., Ceremonial Courtroom No. 5, Old Courthouse, Second Floor, Towson Family Law Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - Towson, 12 noon, 7 West Bistro Grille State, Local Laws & Zoning Committee Planning Mtg, 5 pm, Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - Northwest, 12 noon, Harryman House Advocate Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Law Day Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08
Contributing Writers C. Theresa Beck Catherine A. Dickinson Sondra M. Douglas Jason S. Garber Jonathan M. Herbst Robert C. Lidston Danielle Moore Margaret M. McKee Cecilia B. Paizs G. Darrell Russell Brittany L. Stouffer Laurie Wasserman Kathleen M. Wobber Catherine F. Woods
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August 2015 4 5 6 6 10 11 12 12 14 17 18 18 21 25 26
LRIS Committee Planning Meeting, 4 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - West Side, 12 Noon, Double T Diner Public Awareness & Speakers Committee Planning Mtg, 5 pm, Mezz 08 Real Property Committee Planning Meeting, 5 pm, Mezz 08 Professionalism Committee Meeting, 5 p.m., Proctor & McKee Lawyer in the Lobby w/Volunteer Attorneys, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Estates & Trusts Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - East Side, 12:30 p.m., Uncle Eddie’s Technology Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - Towson, 12 noon, 7 West Bistro Grille UB Law School Student Organizations’ Fair, 2 p.m. O’s Night At The Yard (vs. Minnesota Twins), Flite Deck ! Memorial Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Mezz 08 Solo & Small Firm Lunch - Northwest, 12 noon, Harryman House
Committee Planning Meetings are open to all BCBA members. If you are not able to attend a specific committee meeting, but would like to suggest a program and/or speaker, please email doris@bcba.org. ☺ Location is on the flyer included in this issue
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COURT NOTICES
FAMILY LAW DIVISION ANNOUNCEMENT The Family Law Division of the Circuit Court for Baltimore County has made many changes in the last year relating to processing, assignment and handling of cases by both Magistrates and Judges. We are interested in your feedback on all aspects of the handling of Family Law cases. We hope to continue to improve the way Family Law cases are handled in our Court. Please feel free to provide comment and feedback to Judge Jakubowski on any aspect of the management of these cases. Judge Ruth A. Jakubowski Family Law Coordinating Judge
FILING FEES INCREASE FOR CIRCUIT COURT CIVIL CASES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2015 HB 54 (Chapter 488) from this year 's legislative session was enacted which requires a new surcharge for civil cases. The Circuit Court Real Property Records Improvement Fund surcharge will increase filing fees as follows:
The presentation of Judge Brobst’s portrait will be Thursday, July 16, 2015, 3:30 p.m., in Ceremonial Courtroom No. 5 in the Historic Courthouse, 400 Washington Avenue, Second Floor, Towson. All are invited to attend.
For any new case where there is a $55 surcharge, there will be an additional $30 required; For any appeal where there is a $50 fee, there will be an additional $11 required; For any pleading where the cost schedule states a $25 fee, there will be an additional $6 required; For the following two new case types, the fees will be $25 plus the $55 surcharge and an additional $30 required not $6. Request to register Foreign Judgment Request for Deposition/Out of State Witness
Please see article on page XX of this issue for information on the 6th Annual Swim Across America Baltimore Open Water Swim on September 20, 2015 for information on how to join other participants on the Red Lipstick Racer’s team, in honor of Judge Brobst.
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July 2015
COURT NOTICES
Uniform Statewide Subpoena Form
E
effective July 1, 2015, the new Uniform Statewide Subpoena form will be available, pursuant to Maryland Rules 2-510, 3-510, 4-265, and 4-266. While the content of the forms will be the same, there will be individual subpoena forms for each circuit and district court. This was necessary to ensure that the seal of the issuing court, as well as the appropriate clerk’s signature, appears on the subpoena form.
Attorneys will be able to access the form electronically by registering through the MDEC e-filing portal, even if they are not current MDEC users. They will receive an email blast containing instructions on how to register, as well as how to access the forms. Additionally, a notice will be placed on the Judiciary’s website. Self-represented litigants must obtain the paper subpoena from the appropriate court. However, if a self-represented litigant is registered to electronically file, they will have access to the subpoena portal, but will be discouraged from utilizing that functionality. Carla Jones will email the subpoena form to each Clerk of the Circuit Court. District Court Headquarters will distribute the paper subpoena form to each district court location. If you have any questions regarding the subpoena form, please contact Carla Jones at carla.jones@mdcourts.gov or 410260-3526 for circuit court inquiries; or Polly Harding at polly.harding@mdcourts.gov or 410-260-1210 for District Court inquiries. For questions concerning registration, please contact Tara Glover at tara.glover@mdcourts.gov or 410260-1088.
Message from the Executive Director … This message bears repeating … The calendar on page 3 includes committee planning meetings that have been scheduled at this time. Please check the website calendar for additional dates. All BCBA Members are invited and encouraged to attend any planning meeting, and to bring suggested program and speaker ideas with you. If you are not formally a member of a committee, but have an interest, please do not hesitate to attend. Of course, if you have any questions, please email me, or call 410-337-9103. I look forward to an exciting year of programs and events! As soon as they are scheduled, they will be on the website calendar, The Advocate calendar, as well as the Committee Reports section of the website.
Doris Barnes
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July 2015
Paul E. Alpert, Retired Judge Available for Mediation and Arbitration Former Judge of District Court, Circuit Court and Court of Special Appeals
410-484-2088
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Foreclosures Wage Garnishments Vehicle Repossessions Creditors Calls Judgments Lawsuits Free Consultation – Payment Plans
We are a Debt Relief Agency servicing all areas of Baltimore County, Baltimore City and Harford County – Over 1,000 cases filed.
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July 2015
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July 2015
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July 2015
BCBA PRO BONO COMMITTEE RECEIVES AWARD by Laure Ruth On June 13, 2015, the Baltimore County Bar Association Pro Bono Committee was awarded the Pro Bono Service Award by the Pro Bono Resources Center (PBRC), at the Maryland State Bar Association’s Annual Conference, in appreciation of its outstanding pro bono efforts,
to free legal advice and representation. This past year, Jerry Blake served as Chair of both Committees. For fiscal 2016, Mr. Blake will continue as Chair of the Local Pro Bono Committee, while Hasson Barnes will chair the BCBA Committee. Amy Petkovsek, a member of both Committees, and T. Wray McCurdy, outgoing President of the BCBA, accepted the award on behalf of both Committees. Previous winners of this award include Jewish Legal Services and the Allegany Law Foundation.
The Committees plan to continue with their twice yearly Pro Bono days, usually held in April and October. For each Pro Bono day, Standing: Amy Petkovsek, T. Wray McCurdy, Chief Judge Mary Ellen committee members and other Barbera and Annie Brinkman (PBRC). Seated: MSBA Executive Director volunteer attorneys spend a Paul Carlin and Carl Silverman. Saturday morning providing brief advice and referrals on a walk-in basis to those with legal questions. In past sessions, and for serving as a role model in providing access issues as wide as family law, bankruptcy, to those in need. Since 1991, PBRC annually expungement, and landlord/tenant have been recognizes a variety of people and organizations addressed. The only limit is not having a lawyer with for the hard work they do to assist the citizens of knowledge in a particular area. The location is moved Maryland. In addition to the Baltimore County Bar around the County to allow people from different Association Pro Bono Committee this year PBRC areas easy access via public transportation. Please recognized several other awardees in numerous contact Mr. Barnes at hassonb@hbarneslaw.com if categories, including the Herbert S. Garten Special you would like to be included when he recruits Project Award (to MSBA’s Elder Law and attorneys for these events. Disability Rights Section), the Law Firm Award (to Venable), and the Judge Robert M. Bell award (to The Pro Bono Committee will also continue its Van. T. Doan). “Lawyer in the Lobby” program. Volunteers staff this free walk-in consultation (for all civil issues except The Baltimore County Bar Association Pro Bono family law) event on the second Wednesday of every Committee meets jointly with the Local Pro Bono month from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Volunteers can Committee. The Local Committee is constituted by contact Rachel Ruoco at rachel@bcba.org to sign up the Maryland Rules, and every County is required for a shift. to have a Local Committee. In Baltimore County, the Bar Association and the Local Committee have Congratulations to the Pro Bono Committee and the long partnered and worked together successfully to Local Pro Bono Committee for this impressive provide pro bono opportunities for lawyers in the recognition! County, and services to the public who need access
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July 2015
PRO BONO AWARD NOMINATIONS SOUGHT by Hasson Barnes, Pro Bono Committee Chairperson The Baltimore County and Local Pro Bono Committees request nominations for the Annual Pro Bono Awards, to be made during National Pro Bono Week (October 25-31, 2015) at its Annual Reception honoring all attorneys in Baltimore County who provide pro bono legal services throughout the year. Nominations must be submitted in writing, not later than Thursday, September 10, 2015. Please mail to the BCBA, 100 County Courts Building, 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, or emailed to Doris Barnes.
Pro Bono Attorney of the Year 1. Attorney serving the needs of the community through pro bono work. 2. Generally demonstrated through his or her career. 3. May be demonstrated through a single case or a particular accomplishment. 4. Work considered is services to persons of limited means as that is defined in Rule of Professional Conduct 6.1 and includes services outlined in Maryland Rule 16-902. The recipient is not required to be a member of the BCBA.
Pro Bono Firm of the Year 1. Firm serving the needs of the community through pro bono work. 2. Generally demonstrated over a number of years. 3. May be demonstrated through a single case or a particular accomplishment. 4. Work considered is services to persons of limited means as that is defined in Rule of Professional Conduct 6.1 and includes services outlined in Maryland Rule 16-902.
Prior Recipients Include: 1996 1997 1998 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
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Carl R. Gold Daniel V. Schmitt Nevett Steele, Jr. and Whiteford, Taylor & Preston Carl R. Gold Douglas T. Sachse Stephen J. Nolan John J. Condliffe & Judith Shub-Condliffe Edwin G. Fee, Jr. and Baltimore County Office of Law Barbara L. Ayres and Bowie & Jensen Thomas G. Bodie Barbara Bakal Greene and Levin & Gann Frank E. Turney and Baumohl & Hamburg Michael F. Connolly and Chason, Rosner, Leary & Marshall Laurie Hansen Michael L. Jeffers Richard V. Lynas J. Michael Lawlor
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Signature Sponsors The Baltimore County Bar Association continues its Signature Sponsor program, which enhances the opportunities for our sponsors, as well as our members. This singletier program provides more engagement between our sponsors and our members. Each Signature Sponsor will host one of teb signature events held throughout the year, thereby reducing the cost of the event for members, and many other added benefits. Sponsorships help the Bar Association maintain its current dues level, despite the increasing costs of providing top-shelf legal education programs, social events, networking opportunities and Bar Office services available in the County Courts Building. If you know of a business that would be interested in one of these limited sponsorship opportunities, please contact Doris Barnes (doris@bcba.org or 410 -337-9103).
LAWYER IN THE LOBBY CLINIC The attorneys listed below have volunteered to staff the LAWYER IN THE LOBBY CLINIC, which is held the second Wednesday of each month, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for citizens of Baltimore County to meet, free of charge, with an attorney for advice and/or referral or both (including self-referral) in the areas of collections, bankruptcy, landlord/tenant matters, contract, warranties and other consumer matters, wills, probate, advance directives, or small claims actions. Jerry Blake Jessica Corace Keith Franz Bruce Friedman Valerie Ibe Michael Jeffers Fu-Mei Jiang Brady Locher
Lisa Magil Mala Malhotro-Ortiz Paul Mayhew James Nolan Larry Polen Michelle Valenti Jordan Watts
If you are interested in staffing the Clinic, please call Rachel M. Ruocco at 410-337-9100 or email rachel@bcba.org.
Please join us in welcoming these sponsors and consider their services when you need them. Their ads are throughout each issue of The Advocate, and can be located quickly using the index at the end of the issue, and by the gold ribbon that accompanies their ad. Please let them know you appreciate their support. Thank you!
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Don’t let this happen to your career. Reach out for help before it becomes a train wreck. Don’t wait for Bar Counsel to pay you a visit. Confidential help is available for any attorney, paralegal or support staff for drug, alcohol and/or mental health issues, among others.
ARE ALCOHOL AND DRUGS CAUSING PROBLEMS IN YOUR LIFE? There is a way up and a way out — for ABSOLUTELY CONFIDENTIAL help, call us today ... BALTIMORE COUNTY LAWYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM A CONFIDENTIAL resource for Baltimore County attorneys, assistants and judges. Our services include help for a broad range of problems and personal concerns, such as: Depression Marital and Family Relationships Alcohol and Drug Abuse Stress and Burnout Prescription Drug Concerns Career Concerns
Gambling Internet Addiction Sexual Addiction Compulsive Spending Eating Disorders Balancing Work and Family
WE DO NOT KEEP RECORDS. Our sole purpose is to provide help. We can assist with providing access to treatment facilities and provide emergency practice management, as well as referrals to professional counselors. JAY MILLER, Chair JOE MURTHA, Vice-Chair STUART AXILBUND JIM BEACH MARY CHALAWSKY MARISSA JOELSON RICHARD LYNAS GARY MILES JOSE MOLINA SAM MOXLEY JIM QUINN BILL SALTYSIAK JUDGE PHILIP N. TIRABASSI MARK VAN BAVEL
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410-951-7165 410-583-6969 410-832-7579 410-241-8538 410-649-2000 917-226-6472 410-288-1099 443-632-1760 443-851-7353 410-733-3306 443-703-3041 410-583-8883 410-512-2053 410-337-5291
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July 2015
MAKING WAVES
TO FIGHT by Carl R. Gold
CANCER
It is hard to believe, but the 6th Annual Swim Across America Baltimore Open Water Swim is coming up on September 20, 2015 at the beautiful High Tide Farm on the Magothy River. Swim Across America was founded in 1987 by two friends who were trying to instill hope in all who fight cancer, and heightened consciousness about overcoming this frightening diagnosis. Our team of Baltimore County judges, lawyers and friends was created for the Purple Swim to support Judge Brobst in her battle against pancreatic cancer. Judge Brobst made that event magical for all of us. You all know how bravely she fought.
Upcoming Events August 21
Orioles Night At the Yard
September 10 Bar Year Kick Off Event September 24 Crab Feast December 3
Holiday Party
January 28
Black-Tie Banquet
One of Judge Brobst’s favorite sayings was, “No matter what, put on some lipstick and keep on moving forward.” Thanks to the leadership of The Honorable Kathleen Cox and her daughters Jen and Casey, when the Purple Swim was cancelled, the Red Lipstick Racers rose to the challenge and joined Swim Across America. Last year, thanks to your generosity, we raised over $4,000, and the Baltimore Swim raised close to half a million dollars! This event directly benefits the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins. I am hopeful that you will join our team as a swimmer and spend the day with us. “Coaching” (for free) is available, as are “swim angels” who will swim the course with you if you have any concerns about not being able to see the bottom. Every time I do this swim, my spirit soars - it is a blessed way to remember absent loved ones and friends. If you do not want to swim, but would like to volunteer or donate, please go to http:// www.swimacrossamerica.org/site/TR/OpenWater/ Baltimore?pg=entry&fr_id=3370, or simply Google: Swim Across America Baltimore Open Water Swim and look for the Red Lipstick Racer’s team. I am happy to answer any questions or provide any assistance. If you would like any more information, please contact me at 410-337-5547 or cgold@carlgoldlaw.com. Many thanks!
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FAMILY LAW 101 SERIES: ATTORNEY’S FEES by William F. Alcarese Jr. Close to 40 attorneys gathered in the jury room for the final session of the BCBA Family Law Committee’s Evening Series 2015: Family Law Litigation 101 on May 6th. That evening’s session titled How to Try or Defend an Attorney’s Fees Argument in a Family Law Case was presented by the Honorable Justin J. King and Craig Ward, Esquire a partner at Royston, Mueller, McLean and Reid, LLP in Towson. The presentation started with Mr. Ward stating the fact that seeking attorney’s fees as part of a family law case seems to be an afterthought. It is often one of the last requests in discovery, attorneys prepare for this part of the case on the eve of trial, it is commonly the last piece of evidence admitted at trial and usually addressed last by the Judge in his or her ruling and opinion. However, it is an important issue and needs appropriate attention throughout preparation and trial. We were reminded that from the outset of any case, the client should be advised that a claim may be made for attorney’s fees, but the client is primarily responsible to pay the fees unless and until there is a decision from the Court. The Judge has a high degree of discretion in making an award of attorney’s fees. Typically an award is made from one party to the other party, but Judge King commented, as provided for in the statutes, that if an attorney asks that the award be directly payable to him or her, instead of the client, then he would order it as such. Attendees were provided written materials that summarized the statutes and case law on the topic. The materials included the relevant statutes of the Family Law Section of the Annotated Code and reported opinions. The statutes, Sections 7-107, 8214, 11-110 and 12-103 apply to different family law cases but are similar in that each considers the financial status of the parties, i.e. ability of one party to pay versus the need of the other party, and whether there was substantial justification in bringing or defending the proceeding. Additionally, Family Law Section 9-105 allows the Court to assess costs or counsel fees against a party THE ADVOCATE
who has unjustifiably denied or interfered with visitation rights. Judge King and Mr. Ward agreed that this section can act as a “hammer” because the Court need not consider the financial status of each party or whether there was substantial justification in bringing the action. Although it is commonplace to stipulate to the introduction of the attorney’s bill, instances have arisen where there has been an objection to an attorney’s bill. Mr. Ward mentioned that he has been on both sides of the objection. From that, questions arose on the determination of “reasonableness” of the attorney’s fees. Is an expert necessary? Does the lawyer have to testify? Judge King answered that these extreme measures typically are not necessary. But rather there should be sufficient detail in the attorney’s bill to allow the Judge to make the determination that the fees are fair and reasonable. Attorneys need to balance putting enough detail in the bill without infringing on the attorney client privilege. To best sum this up, Judge King reminded us that we are all professionals and bound by the ethical rules. For example, if a call to a client was to wish them a happy birthday, then there should not be an entry on the bill for a phone call to the client. Upon conclusion of the presentation, the attendees left with not only more knowledge about the law governing attorney’s fees, but also issues not addressed by the law that were debated. A special thanks to the presenters, Judge King and Craig Ward, Esquire. The five part 2015 Family Law Litigation 101 Evening Series has come to a close. There was a great turnout of lawyers ranging from those newly admitted to seasoned veterans throughout the series. The other topics included: 1) Trying a Child Support Case; 2) Trying an Alimony Case; 3) Trying a Marital Property Case; and 4) Trying a Custody Case. If you want to obtain copies of handouts for any session, feel free to contact the BCBA. Thanks goes out to Doris Barnes and her staff in the Bar Office for orchestrating the evening series for us!
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A N N UA L G O L F T O U R NA M E N T by Debra A. Thomas
by Matthew I. Wyman
This year, there were not only 18 holes of golf, but also a Beginner’s Clinic. There were seven participants, five with no experience, and two who just needed a refresher, including the Honorable Vicki Ballou-Watts. The golf pro, Mark gave instruction on the basic rules of the game, the golf stroke, clubs, terminology, and a brief tour of the beautiful, waterfront course. This Clinic gave those who have no golfing experience an opportunity to learn the game and relax with other golfers for dinner.
The Bar Association hosted the annual golf outing at Rocky Point Golf Course (commonly referred to as the Essex Country Club, or the Augusta of the Chesapeake), on Thursday, June 4th. Eighty golfers competed in a scramble, with teams divided into two flights. This year also saw the first-ever Beginner’s Clinic, which will hopefully be a staple of the event for years to come. The weather was ominous, and threatened to put a damper on the event, but the rain managed to hold out for the golf. Then, as if on cue, the skies opened up, and it poured during the dinner and awards ceremony. Thankfully, everyone was safely tucked under cover.
Lisa Settles, Bambi Glenn, Sondra Douglas, Judge Vicki Ballou-Watts, Debra Thomas, James Benjamin and Christopher Moylan
Check-in was efficiently handled by Duke May, Doris Barnes, Maxine Morrow, Kush Patel and Bryan Upshur
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Rocky Point was in fantastic shape, and several players brought their “A” Games to the event. In addition to the traditional scramble, there were prizes for longest drive (men and women), closest to the pin on all par threes, an optional “tee advantage,” and an opportunity to “Beat the Pro” hosted by PGA Professional Jeff Bell. While the seasoned golfers were hitting the links, Assistant Pro Mark Sims hosted several members in a Beginner’s Clinic. The group included James Benjamin, Sondra Douglas, Bambi Glenn, Christopher Moylan, Lisa Settles, incoming Entertainment Chair Debra Thomas, and incoming Bar Association President, Judge Vicki BallouWatts. The clinic consisted of a series of lessons on the range and practice green, along with three modified holes for beginners, and an on-course etiquette lesson. We hope to keep this portion of the event for years to come, and hope to see the program’s graduate’s competing in the main event in no time.
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A N N UA L G O L F T O U R NA M E N T Continued from page 16 For the second year in a row, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood provided a top-notch lunch and dinner including burgers, hot dogs, pit beef, pasta, and of course their world-famous crab cakes. There was an abundance of libations before, during and after. Thankfully, University of Baltimore Law Students Kush Patel, Duke May, Bryan Upshur and Paul Thaler were on hand to assist with driving the beverage carts, and judge some of the contest holes. In addition to her many other roles, Maxine Morrow filled in as bartender during dinner as the drinks lead to exaggerated tales of glory on the links for many participants.
Now, for the winners: Beat the Pro Players had the opportunity to beat PGA Pro Jeff Bell on the par 3, 11th hole. Six players had shots inside of Jeff’s during the day. Of those players, Rick Schmidt’s name was drawn at random to win a day of golf for four at Rocky Point, donated by Jeff Bell. With every player participating, this contest netted an additional $225 for the Anne Brennan Memorial Scholarship Fund. Tee Advantage DTI (formerly Merrill Deposition Services), and Denny Rudolph sponsored a Tee Advantage on the 17th hole. For a donation of $5, players could tee the ball forward by one set of tees. Again, every golfer participated, and DTI matched the contributions, for an additional $650 towards the Anne Brennan Memorial Scholarship Fund. 50/50 Raffle The Anne Brennan Memorial Scholarship Fund was the big winner of the day. In addition to donations from Beat the Pro and the Tee Advantage, Christian Mester (guest of Denny Rudolph) won $435 in the raffle, and generously donated the entire amount back, adding an additional $870 to the fund.
Then PresidentElect Judge Vicki Ballou-Watts and Christian Mester
Closest to the Pin (Sponsored by ASAP) #7 Dave Stallings #11 Bill Fitzpatrick #14 Jimbo Shea (as he prefers to be called when winning golf events) Longest Drive, Hole #5 (Sponsored by Gore Brothers Court Reporting and Videoconferencing) Men – Robert Miller Women – Maria Oesterreicher Most Honest Team (highest score) Paul Finamore Matt Kimball Dave Stallings James Koutras Best Dressed Team Rob Erdman Rebecca Fleming Dave Luby Michael Siri
Flight B Second Place: -5 Dr. Hung Cheung Tim Bojanowski Matt Wyman Cal Stafilatos Continued on page 18
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A N N UA L G O L F T O U R NA M E N T Continued from page 17
Flight A Second Place: -13 (lost tie-breaker) Aaron Nichols Taylor Debord Neil Thupari Dallas Settle
Wearing ”Declaration of Inde-pants,” Dave Luby, Michael Siri, Rebecca Fleming and Rob Erdman
Flight B First Place: -6 JR Francomano Alan Bussard Paul Carlin (MSBA Director) Jamie Francomano
Executive
First Place: -13 (won tie-breaker) Reed Carter Mark Flanigan Bryan Tillman Marshall Henslee
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A N N UA L G O L F T O U R NA M E N T Continued from page 18
This has always been, and continues to be one of the most fun events the Bar Association offers. With the addition of the Beginner’s Clinic, and a great venue in Rocky Point, we hope to see our numbers grow in the coming years. Next year is June 2, mark your calendars now and start practicing.
Flight B, 2nd Place: Dr. Hung Cheung, Tim Bojanowski, Matt Wyman and Cal Stafilatos
Mark your calendars now for next year’s event at Rocky Point Golf Course on Thursday, June 2, 2016. Line up your foursome, and work on those handicaps!
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BCBA HOSPITALITY SUITE WELCOMES LAWYERS AT MSBA ANNUAL MEETING IN OCEAN CITY by Laurie Wasserman Every June, hundreds of lawyers travel to Ocean City for the Maryland State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting. One of the highlights of the Annual Meeting is the Hospitality Suites sponsored by local and specialty Bar Associations throughout the State. While other associations may try, they simply cannot compete with the popularity of the BCBA’s Hospitality Suite. BCBA Members and guests alike come early and stay late in the Suite to partake in the camaraderie among our bar members.
food and beverages. This year’s Suite sponsors, ICS-Insurance, Tucker & Meltzer Valuation Appraisers and Zest Social Media Solutions, kept the Suite fully stocked, gave us a signature drink, the Black-Eyed Susan, provided shrimp cocktail , homemade brownies, and other snacks for visitors. The MSBA Annual Meeting began on Wednesday night with the Welcome Reception. As soon as the Reception ended, BCBA members flocked to the cabana. They partook in an unofficial pizza party, generously sponsored by the firm of Howanski, Meadows & Erdman. The Hospitality Suite stayed crowded into the late hours of the evening. Special guests spotted in the Suite included outgoing BCBA President T. Wray McCurdy, incoming BCBA President Judge Vicki Ballou-Watts, Executive Board Members Stanford Gann, Michael Siri, Rebecca Fleming and Lisa Settles. Outgoing MSBA President and Baltimore County Bar Association Member Debra Shubert and District Court Administrative Judge Alexandra Williams also stopped in to say hello.
Raphael Santini, Judge Vicki Ballou-Watts, and T. Wray McCurdy
For those who have never been to the MSBA Annual Meeting, the Hospitality Suite is located along the exterior of the indoor pool at the Clarion Hotel. The Suite is smaller than a regular hotel room, and has a loft upstairs for sleeping. Every year, a courageous sole “volunteers” to stay in the cabana to help keep the party running smoothly. This year, the brave cabana girl was Maxine Morrow, BCBA Administrative Assistant. Both Maxine and Doris Barnes worked extremely hard to keep the Hospitality Suite well stocked with
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Susan Land, Natalie Collins, Doris Barnes and Kristine Howanski
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BCBA HOSPITALITY SUITE WELCOMES LAWYERS AT MSBA ANNUAL MEETING IN OCEAN CITY Continued from page 20 to get a taste of Doris’ famous meatballs (originally made famous by Past President Schubert). In addition to BCBA members, the cabana welcomed students from UB Law and UM Law, who came to the Annual Meeting to network. It was a great opportunity for local law students to see firsthand how strong our organization is. At several times during the evening, the crowd in the Hospitality Suite got so large that it spilled out the door and around the pool. Guests in other Suites could not contain their curiosity and came over to join the fun. Friday night, after many of the MSBA Sections had their formal dinners, the folks remaining at the conference returned to the cabana for the last time of the 2015 Bar Conference.
Wendy Meadows, Martha White, Alaina Storie, Rebecca Fleming and Mariella D’Alesiso
While the cabana closed during the day (for cleaning and re-stocking!), it reopened again Thursday evening after the MSBA President’s Reception. Thursday night typically brings the largest crowd to the Suite, many of whom stop by
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If you have never attended the Annual Meeting, I highly encourage you to do so and check out the BCBA Hospitality Suite. It is another example of how wonderful it is to be a part of this organization. Thanks again to Doris and Maxine for hosting such a great party and all who stopped in to celebrate another successful bar year!
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THE HONORABLE VICKI BALLOU-WATTS SWORN IN AS PRESIDENT OF THE BALTIMORE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION by Alexander “Sandy� C. Steeves
More than 150 attorneys, judges, friends and colleague packed Courtroom Number 2 in the County Courts Building on Thursday, June 18, 2015, to witness a historical moment in Baltimore County as the Honorable Vicki Ballou-Watts was sworn in as President of the Baltimore County Bar Association. Judge Ballou-Watts will lead the organization as it strives to continue to evolve in this new age of technology, and continues to use social media and other technology to attract new members and communicate with the existing membership. After a very heartfelt and emotional introduction by outgoing President T. Wray McCurdy, Judge Ballou-Watts addressed the crowd assembled to honor her presidency, and called for more attorneys to take on leadership positions with the association, and also echoed a message of inclusion for all lawyers. She reiterated that we all need to recognize our friends and colleagues who may want to get involved with the bar association, but they just need a little motivation, or perhaps an invitation from another person to invite them to an event or a CLE. Judge Ballou-Watts asked all of the members of the THE ADVOCATE
Executive Council to stand up during her speech, and urged everyone present to communicate with the bar association leadership, and share their ideas for how to improve the organization. It was abundantly clear that the new President is inviting the membership as a whole to contact her with suggestions on how the bar association can better serve them. The Baltimore County Bar Association was very blessed to have three past Maryland State Bar Association Presidents in attendance to see Judge Ballou-Watts sworn in as our new president. We were especially honored to have current MSBA President, the Honorable Pamila J. Brown, in attendance to support her friend and colleague on the judiciary. It is clear that the bar association will continue to strive to attract younger members, and the new president encouraged everyone to "like" the Baltimore County Bar Association on Facebook, and follow BCBA on Twitter. We will also be promoting the bar association on social media using #BCBA 2015!
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THE HONORABLE VICKI BALLOU-WATTS SWORN IN AS PRESIDENT OF THE BALTIMORE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION Continued from page 22
Judges Sherrie Bailey, Vicki Ballou-Watts, Kathy Cox and Ruth Ann Jakubowski Judges Pamila Brown and Vicki Ballou-Watts, and Harry Johnson
Debra Schubert, Judge Sandy Williams and Keith Truffer
Paul Thaler, Tiffany Franc, Judge Pamila Brown, Michael Siri, Dean Jill Green
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CRIMINAL LAW UPDATE by Robert C. Lidston The June Amicus features only three brief criminal decisions. Kusi v. State, No. 62, September Term 2013, filed May 19, 2014 (opinion by Battaglia, J.). On the first day of his criminal jury trial, Kusi, who is from Ghana, asked the judge to appoint an interpreter. The appointment of interpreters is governed by Criminal Procedure Article Section 1-202 and Maryland Rule 16-819. Criminal Procedure Section 1-202 states that a court shall appoint an interpreter when a criminal defendant "cannot readily understand or communicate" in English. In the Kusi matter, the judge had a lengthy conversation with Kusi on the record, asking him about his use of English, his understanding of the proceedings, and his ability to assist his defense counsel. Also on the record, the trial judge made a factual finding that Kusi understood the proceedings and that he was able to communicate sufficiently with his attorney. He then denied the request for an interpreter and, upon appeal, the Court of Special Appeals affirmed his decision. The Court of Appeals affirmed the holding below. It decided that the lengthy exchange between the trial judge and Kusi gave the trial judge the chance to ascertain Kusi’s ability to understand and communicate in English. The Court stated that when reviewing a trial judge’s decision on the appointment of an interpreter, the reviewing court would use a two-part process. It would first examine the record to see whether the trial judge’s factual findings were clearly erroneous. If they were not clearly erroneous, the appellate court will then determine whether the trial judge abused his or her discretion in making a determination about the appointment of interpreter. In the Kusi matter, the trial judge’s determination that Kusi understood sufficient English was not clearly erroneous and the judge did not abuse his discretion. Hayes v. State, N o. 2684, September Term 2012, filed May 1, 2014 (opinion by Eyler, Deborah S., J.). During voir dire, Hayes’s criminal defense attorney requested the following question: "Mr.
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Hayes is an African American. Would that fact in any way impact your ability to be fair and impartial?" The Assistant State’s Attorney objected to the question on the ground that it was not necessary because all the witnesses and the defendant were African American. The judge did not pose the question to the panel of prospective jurors. Half way through the three day trial, the Assistant State’s Attorney told defense counsel and the trial judge that she believed that she had been mistaken in objecting to the question during voir dire. She stated that she believed that if requested, the question was required under Hernandez v. State, 357 Md. 204 (1999). She suggested that the court cure the error by posing the question to the seated jurors. The defense attorney agreed that the failure to ask the question during voir dire had been an error but objected to the cure. The court did not pose the question. Hayes was found guilty and received a significant sentence. On appeal to the Court of Special Appeals, the judgement was reversed and the case was remanded for a new trial. The question had been requested and, under Hernandez, it was mandatory because it went to the issue of juror impartiality. The fact that Hayes and all of the witnesses were African American did not make the question immaterial. The trial court had properly refused to attempt to "cure" its error by posing the question during the trial. The proposed cure would not have been effective. Abe v. State, No. 99, September Term 2013, filed May 1, 2014 (opinion by Kenney, J.). Abe was charged under Criminal Code section 7-104 with theft less than $100.00. The punishment provided in the statute, besides restitution, is imprisonment not exceeding ninety days and a fine not exceeding $500.00 or both. Abe prayed a jury trial and the matter was forwarded to the circuit court. There, the State moved to remand the case to the district court, arguing that Abe was not entitled to a jury trial at the initial trial level because the penalty for theft
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CRIMINAL LAW UPDATE Continued from page 24 under $100.00 did not exceed ninety days. The circuit court granted the State’s request. Abe filed an interlocutory appeal. The Court of Special Appeals decided that the circuit court was not in error when it sent the matter back to the district court. In discussing the matter, it cited three factors to be found in case law for determining whether the Maryland constitutional right to a jury trial attaches to an offense at the initial trial level. The first is whether the crime had historically been considered a petty offense tried before a justice of the peace or had been historically a matter for a jury. The second was whether the defendant was subject to a significant statutory penalty or incarceration in the penitentiary. The third is whether the crime is an infamous one or is considered serious.
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Petit theft was historically tried before a justice of the peace and this weighed in favor of not providing for a jury trial at the initial trial level. As to the second factor, the maximum penalty for theft under $100.00 is ninety days and, by statute, a defendant cannot be sentenced to the penitentiary for that amount of time. The lesser punishment would not be considered infamous and thus also argues against a jury trial right at the initial trial level. As to the third factor, the state legislature amended the theft statute in 2004, clearly intending to split the crime into more and less serious categories. The ninety day sentence reflects the less serious nature of theft under $100.00. By making petit theft a less serious offense, the legislature created a constitutionally valid way to keep the less serious thefts in the district court at the initial trial level.
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HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES: FOURTH OF JULY PARADES by G. Darrell Russell, Jr. These are a few lines on the local Fourth of July parades. The County Bar Association has had oblique involvement over the years. There have been occasional bar members as chairpersons and the parades have been opportunities for public exposure for judicial candidates. Otherwise, the parades are the product of citizen organizations. It’s not even a governmental sponsored activity, but the result of groups like the VFW, or the American Legion or the Chamber of Commerce. There are now eight parades in Baltimore County on July 4. The oldest and the biggest is the Dundalk parade which began eighty years ago. This is not surprising as Dundalk is blessed with a multitude of proud neighborhoods, which traditionally housed employees from the industrial hub of the county. Some of the more recognizable employers were Western Electric, General Motors, Seagrams Distilleries, Bethlehem Steel, VulcanHart, Dak Products to name just a few. Many of these businesses have folded or re-invented themselves as new technologies filled their older factories. Towson was never a community which grew its own employment opportunities, except for Black and Decker, two universities, two hospitals and the government center. Towson does have a robust parade, but it is not as long or ambitious as the Dundalk affair. Dundalk’s parade is also part of a weekend celebration called the Heritage Festival, held in Heritage Park. Catonsville has a parade about coincidental in size with Towson’s effort. And Catonsville is also a community of neighborhoods, with an industrial base, but on a smaller scale than Dundalk. The genesis of these parades comes from the local Chambers of Commerce. Multiple Veterans groups are heavily recruited to help organize as well as to march. WWII Vets will pile in the back of a vintage armored vehicle or the back deck of a big truck. The Vietnam Vets are more sprightly as they limp along in tempered precision. Smaller parades are held at Wilson Point, Glyndon,
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Sudbrook Park, Kingsville, and Arbutus. These parades will feature local bands from nearby schools as well as representatives from civic organizations, little leagues, a smattering of local business marchers and modest floats. But all the big bands, particularly the Marching Ravens, which is the biggest band in the NFL, will go to just the big three parades. Likewise the Calvert Hall band romps in practiced percussion as the largest area high school band. The parades are staggered in such a fashion that the bands as well as the politicians can participate in all three. Dundalk’s parade begins at the Logan Village Shopping Center at 8:15 am. The Towson parade will begin its march from Bosley and Burke avenues at 10:30 am. The Catonsville parade, which celebrates its 69th year, begins at the corner of Frederick Road and Montrose Avenues at 3pm. The Towson parade is the youngest of the big three, having begun after the Korean armistice. No other county in the state has as many parades as Baltimore County. Many counties will feature a parade in the county seat. There will be a parade in the state capital, which is also the county seat of Anne Arundel County, beginning at West Street in Annapolis. Baltimore City and Howard and Carroll Counties have celebrations but no parades. Harford County has a modest parade in Bel Air. America does love parades. In Towson, many watchers arrive early to stake out their prized annual spots to plant their lawn chairs for prime viewing. Mike Lawlor, of the Maryland State Bar Veterans Committee, claims his usual spot on Allegheny Avenue. He used to view the parade from the deck of the Elks lodge until the parade route was changed. Vernon Boozer, long time state Senator from Towson, also claims his same annual spot on Allegheny Avenue. Past Bar President, Ed Gilliss, claims a spot on Bosley Avenue. Past County Executive, Don Hutchinson, now City Zoo CEO, also claims a spot on Bosley. And so on. In Towson, the elected officials are always at the beginning of the parade. The local officials will join the reviewing stand in front of the Old Court
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HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES: FOURTH OF JULY PARADES Continued from page 26 House, as they reach parade’s end. When the state and county wide officials reach the end, they will quickly jump in their vehicles and head to the next parade. This is after they have already been to Dundalk. In this entourage will usually find both US Senators, a Congressman or two, and all of the Courthouse team. The latter includes the County Executive, State’s Attorney, Sheriff, Register of Wills and Clerk. Our Governor usually makes an appearance at the Towson parade but opted out last year, as he was looking for a bigger parade in Washington, DC. Only elected officials are allowed in the Towson parade. Dundalk and Catonsville have no such restriction. Any candidate may participate. Not surprisingly, no one asked Larry Hogan in the Towson parade, to remove his big motor coach, with a busy army running behind, passing out the candidate’s literature. Hogan himself jumped from side to side of the streets like a white haired gazelle, as he shook hands and kissed babies. Hogan’s Democratic opponent, although a legit entry as Lt. Governor, was a no show. Governor Hogan vows to return this year, although his cadence may be slowed by the cancerous malady which has stricken him. He might be wise to sit royally in the back of a convertible. Our sitting judges, when running for election, usually make all three parades. The four most recently appointed sitting judges were seen two summers ago, on the back of a float, waving to the spectators, who remarked like Butch Cassidy musing about the persistent following Indians, “Who are these guys?” Last summer the judges had won their primaries, negating the electoral necessity of the bar building a float. Judge Kathy Cox, seeking her second 15 year term, will most assuredly be riding in someone’s convertible, this year. Perhaps husband John, a Deputy State’s Attorney, will don a chauffer’s cap and get behind the wheel.
Towson, predictably, he was denied participation. But the interloper boldly slapped his magnetic placard on the side of a participating antique Oldsmobile, and walked anyway. No one yanked him out. Despite shaking ample hands, and doing the Hogan dance, he still lost the election to the incumbent, who rode majestically on the back of a shiny new convertible, donated by a local dealership. Ironically, that losing candidate did very well in the voting in Dundalk and Catonsville, where he didn’t have to crash the party. If Thomas Jefferson were alive today and living in Baltimore County, he would be impressed. The stirring strains of John Philip Sousa may give him the same thrill it gives the hordes of watchers who line the streets, like the red white and blue bunting lining the lampposts. That fool-hearty, young candidate for State’s Attorney, writes these words.
A candidate for Baltimore County States Attorney, a few years ago, marched in the Dundalk and Catonsville parades behind a convertible. In THE ADVOCATE
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C
ongratulations to BCBA Executive Council Treasurer, Rebecca A. Fleming (Turnbull, Nicholson & Sanders), and Member Tally H-S Kovacs (Pessin Katz Law) who were recognized on June 18, 2015 as a professional 40 years of age and younger who have been successful in Maryland. Winners are selected on the basis of professional accomplishments and commitment to inspiring change in their community.
A
t the 62nd Annual President’s Dinner of the Maryland Association for Justice, Inc. (MAJ) held on June 12, 2015 at the Grand Hotel in Ocean City, BCBA Member Matt Paavola received The Trial Lawyer of the Year Award. This Award is presented annually to a Maryland trial lawyer or team of trial lawyers who have made a significant contribution to the public interest by litigating a case of precedential value. Mr. Paavola received the award for his significant contributions to ensuring just compensation for claimants in workers’ compensation cases. Matt is a member, frequent presenter, and past Chair of the BCBA’s Negligence, Insurance & Workers’ Compensation Committee. THE ADVOCATE
COMMITTEE REPORTS All Committee Reports, Chair and ViceChair contact information, upcoming programs, and handouts from those programs already held this year, can be found online. Click on the Committee Reports banner above.
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P R O G R A M & E V E N T R E G I S T R AT I O N F O R M Please return this form to the Baltimore County Bar Association, 100 County Courts Building, 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, MD 21204 with a check or credit card info; fax to 410-823-3418, or REGISTER ONLINE at www.bcba.org. PLEASE register me for the following programs/events: Registration Fee: Member August 21, 2015, O’s Night at the Yard
Non-Member
$45, per person
September 10, 2015, Bar Year Kick-Off Event
FREE
$10
September 24, 2015, Crab Feast
$50
$60
December 3, 2015, Holiday Party
Name(s) Telephone
Address
City
State
Zip Amount Enclosed
Menu Choice (if applicable) Name on C/C
Today’s Date
Billing Address City
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Zip Amount authorized
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Signature____________________________________________________________________
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The Baltimore County Bar Association 100 County Courts Building 401 Bosley Avenue Towson, MD 21204-4491 410-337-9103-Telephone 410-823-3418-Facsimile www.bcba.org
Upcoming Events August 21
Orioles Night At the Yard
September 10 Bar Year Kick Off Event September 24 Crab Feast December 3
Holiday Party
January 28
Black-Tie Banquet
MEMBER ADVERTISEMENTS Historic Lutherville. Office space available in a small law firm, perfect for a solo practitioner. Office comes with a Partner’s desk, chairs and bookcase. Use of conference room, waiting room, receptionist, phone system, utilities and internet. Free parking. Close to Towson court houses, I695 and I83. Email randy@waselaw.com or call 410-828-8500. Dundalk. Available office space in Dundalk. Call 410-288-2900. Towson. For rent, Lawyer’s office in the business condominium of J. Michael Lawlor. Approx. 20x10 w/filing cabinet, small bookcase, desk, chairs and credenza w/three lamps. Young attorney who practices domestic law (not exclusively, necessarily) is desired. Spin-off work will be available. Rent $800/mo. Contact J. Michael Lawlor at 410-494-1800 or lawloresq@verizon.net. Towson law offices available for sublet. We are four busy lawyers working in a nicely furnished suite of offices on the 8th floor of 401 Washington Avenue, overlooking the Old Courthouse. We have 1-4 lawyer’s offices, plus work stations for legal assistants available. Suite is equipped with phones, reception area, conference room, kitchen, copier and postage meter. Competitive rates. http://www.401washingtonave.com. Macy Nelson, 410-296-8166 x 290; gmacynelson@gmacynelson.com.
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