THE ADVOCATE Newsletter of The Baltimore County Bar Association VOLUME XXVI, NO. 1
July 2017
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Adam Thomas Sampson I consider it a high honor to serve as President of the Baltimore County Bar Association. Let me start by thanking the many members who have encouraged and facilitated my service to the BCBA over the years, those who have worked so hard on behalf of the BCBA, and those who will work hard on behalf of the BCBA this bar year: Judge Carey Deeley for encouraging me during my clerkship with Judge James T. Smith, Jr. to join, and become active in, this Association; Past-Presidents John Nowicki, Dominick Garcia, Debra Schubert, Ed Gilliss, and Judge Philip N. Tirabassi for appointing me to chair committees of this Association; Past-President Judge John G. Turnbull, II for advising me over the years in all things BCBA; Past-President Dana Williams for encouraging me to apply for a position on the Executive Council;
Immediate Past-President Rob Thompson for his stewardship of the BCBA this past year and for his sound advice for serving as President; Doris Barnes for her hard work over the many years on behalf of this Association and more recently during my transition from PresidentElect to President; The Budget & Finance Committee – Drake Zaharris, Suzanne Farace, Becky Fleming, Michael Siri, Jay Miller, Stan Gann and Jack Turnbull, for crafting a budget in the best in the Association, despite our difficult, but necessary decisions; and To all who have agreed to serve as committee chairs this bar year. The success of the BCBA depends in large measure on the work you do as leaders of this Association. Together with Doris, we can continue and strengthen our great history of leading other bar associations, through our hard work and exemplary participation, as the best bar association in Maryland.
Continued on page 2
Inside This Edition Annual Sponsors Bench/Bar Report Calendar of Events Civility & Advocacy Committee News County Council Update Court Notices Criminal Law Update DUI & Interlock E&T Annual Dinner Family Law Div. Mtg. Golf Tournament Green Leaves UB Law Lawyers Assistance Legends of the Boardrm Member Ads
Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg
33 5 3 9 22 6 4 20 10 12 14 16 15 29 11 32
H a w k M o r t g a g e G r o u p , L L C , Signature Sponsor THE ADVOCATE
Page 1
July 2017
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Continued from page 1 Additionally, I want to welcome Richard Grason and Rob Erdman to the Executive Council, where you join others similarly devoted to this Bar Association. Allow me next to share my focus and initiatives for this bar year. This bar year will focus on a theme, which I have labeled “Amicus – friend of the court – Animals,” with the intent to raise awareness and advance initiatives to combat animal abuse. Four initiatives are keyed to the theme: First, this year’s charity partner will be Show Your Soft Side, a 501(c)(3) co-founded by BCBA member Caroline Griffin. Show Your Soft Side is a public service campaign to change the mindset of young people, who all -too-often view the maiming and torturing of defenseless cats and dogs as a sign of “toughness” or “manhood.” The campaign’s message that compassion toward animals is a strength, not a weakness, is one that, overnight, struck a nerve with old and young alike. In late 2010, Baltimore was beset by one horrific case of animal abuse after another. Two 17-year-olds set a nursing cat on fire, a group of kids beat a young puppy to death in a public park, and two teens were charged with dousing a dog, later named Phoenix, in accelerant and then setting her on fire. Those hideous events turned out to be a defining moment for three determined women and one talented photographer in Baltimore – and Show Your Soft Side was born. Originally envisioned to be a few posters in Baltimore City schools, the campaign captured the attention of the media and was soon being shared in households from Baltimore to Brazil, and beyond. Today, Show Your Soft Side uses its reach and resources to build a better world for animals and, in doing so, build better adults. Show Your Soft Side is run entirely by volunteers and boasts a team of more than a hundred athlete, rocker and celebrity “Softies” who are determined to end animal abuse before it starts. We hope to raise awareness and funds throughout the year for Show Your Soft Side. The primary fundraising will come from silent auctions at two events – Wines Around The World in the Fall, and the Young Lawyers Bull & Oyster Roast next Spring.
member’s pet. We encourage all of you to “show your soft side” by submitting a photo of your pet, along with an entrance fee. All photos will be combined into one collage. The winner will receive a copy of the collage, a trophy, and bragging rights. Anyone may purchase a copy of the collage for another $10. All proceeds after expenses will go to the charity to supplement our traditional fundraising efforts. Third, the speaker for the Annual Banquet will be someone who uniquely compliments our Amicus Animals theme. Fourth, I have established a special Animal Law Committee to be co-chaired by Caroline Griffin and Adam Lippe. The purpose of the Committee will be to: bring together members of the BCBA who have an interest in the legal issues relating to animals; provide a forum for the open exchange of ideas about legal issues that concern the treatment of all animals, the protections afforded to animals, and the rights and responsibilities of persons who have an interest in animals; facilitate the development of good legal practice in animal-related issues by providing educational programs and resources; and, educate and inform the public concerning the legal issues relating to animals. Finally, unrelated to our Amicus Animals theme, I intend to appoint a Task Force concerning a potential Judicial Appointments Committee. The task force will evaluate the efficacy of such a committee, how members should be appointed to the committee, and how best to implement the committee with a view toward providing a voice fully representative of our diverse association. I hope you will join me on this journey in furtherance of our Association’s great work on behalf of its members, the profession, and the community. Thank you. Adam Sampson
Second, related to the fundraising, we intend to have a contest, called “Stare” Decisis to set a precedent for the “friend of court” animal, which will be a BCBA
THE ADVOCATE
Page 2
July 2017
C ALENDAR
2017-18 Officers President Pres-Elect Secretary Treasurer
OF
E VENTS
Adam T. Sampson Rebecca A. Fleming Michael W. Siri Jay D. Miller
Executive Council Stanford G. Gann, Jr. John G. Turnbull III Lisa Y. Settles Sondra M. Douglas Richard Grason VI Robert K. Erdman, Jr.
Robert J. Thompson, Immediate Past President A. Neill Thupari, YL Chair
The Advocate
July 2017 4 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 24 31
COURTS & BAR OFFICE CLOSED in observance of Independence Day BCBA Executive Council Meeting, 8 a.m., Judicial Conference Room 412 Lawyer in the Lobby, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Bar Office* Volunteers: Sondra Douglas, Richard Lebovitz, Gregg Mosson, James Nolan, Jr. There is no Bench/Bar meeting this month … see you on September 14 th Solo & Small Firm Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room Real Property Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room State, Local Laws & Zoning Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Rm Technology Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room SSF Committee: Tour: Forensic Testing Lab, 12:30 p.m., BCityPD Young Lawyers Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m, Grand Jury Room Membership Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room
David F. Luby Committee Chair Ari J. Kodeck Committee Vice -Chair
Contributing Writers Thomas H. Bostwick Mariela C. D’Alessio Justin E. Fine D. Jill Green William R. Levasseur, Jr. Margaret M. McKee Cecilia B. Paizs Anne L. Preston Kimberly K. P. Rothwell Jeffrey R. Scholnick Paul J. Schwab Scott D. Shellenberger Angela J. Silverstein Alaina L. Storie Britt L. Stouffer Whitney E. Wilder Matthew I. Wyman 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: 15th of the month preceding publication.
THE ADVOCATE
August 2017 1 2 3 9 10 12 15 23 24
Public Awareness (Civics & Law Academy), 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room Criminal Law Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room Entertainment Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room Lawyer in the Lobby, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Bar Office* There is no Bench/Bar meeting this month … see you on September 14 th Annual Softball Tournament, Watkins Regional Park, 9 a.m. Law Day Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room Memorial Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room ADR Committee Planning Meeting, 5 p.m., Grand Jury Room
September 2017 4 12 13 14 18 19 20 26 27
COURTS & BAR OFFICE CLOSED in observance of Labor Day Professionalism Committee Meeting, 5 p.m, Royston, Mueller, McLean & Reid Lawyer in the Lobby, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Bar Office* Bench/Bar Committee Meeting, 8 a.m., Judicial Conference Room 412 E&T Kick-Off Reception, 5-7 p.m., Towson Tavern Judicial Portrait Unveiling, Judge William R. Buchanan BCBA Membership Annual Kick-Off Reception, 5-7 p.m., Charles Village Pub Towson. This is a FREE event for all BCBA Members! Family Law Annual Meet & Greet Dinner, 6 p.m., Hayfields Country Club Hispanic Bar Gala, Martin’s Crosswinds. See page 15 of this issue for information.
*If you are interested in volunteering for the monthly Lawyer in the Lobby, please contact Rachel Ruocco, 410-337-9103 x102
Page 3
July 2017
COURT NOTICES From The Honorable Kathleen Gallogly Cox Administrative Judge, Baltimore County Circuit Court Inmate Clothing Policy Circuit Court for Baltimore County The Circuit Court for Baltimore County has adopted the following policy concerning clothing for inmates appearing in court in order to address heightened concerns about contraband entering the Detention Center. Inmates will be permitted to change to civilian clothing at the Circuit Court only when they appear in a jury trial. All clothing must be delivered to the Sheriff’s Office on the first day of the jury trial, and will be screened for contraband before it is provided to the inmate. The Sheriff’s Office has established the following policy for inmate clothing: Males: Shirt, Pants, Jacket, Tie, Belt, Socks, Shoes Females: Shirt/Blouse, Pants/Dress, Socks/Tights/Hose, Shoes After three consecutive days of trial, a new set of clothes will be permitted to be exchanged for the ones previously being worn. All clothes will be returned to the Defendant’s Attorney/Family member at the conclusion of the trial.
AND, FURTHER, In addition to the restrictions on inmate clothing, the Bench has adopted the policy that any paperwork to be provided to an inmate in custody must be screened through the Sheriff’s Office. The only papers to be provided to an inmate in custody in open Court are those being served upon the inmate by the State or by Court personnel.
FAMILY LAW DIVISION ASSIGNMENTS As of July 1, 2017 Judge Ruth A. Jakubowski Judge Michael J. Finifter Judge Robert E. Cahill, Jr. Judge H. Patrick Stringer, Jr. Judge Sherrie R. Bailey Judge Nancy M. Purpura
As of January 1, 2018 Judge Vicki Ballou-Watts Judge Judith C. Ensor Judge Paul J. Hanley Judge Julie L. Glass Judge Dennis M. Robinson, Jr. Judge C. Carey Deeley, Jr.
As of July 1, 2018 Judge Kathleen G. Cox Judge Susan Souder Judge John J. Nagle III Judge Jan Marshall Alexander Judge Justin J. King Judge Keith R. Truffer THE ADVOCATE
Page 4
July 2017
BENCH/BAR REPORT
by Bruce E. Friedman The penultimate meeting of the Bar year was held on May 11. Following the call to Order by Chairperson Richard Grason VI, and the approval of the minutes from last month’s meeting, Judge Dorothy J. Wilson’s written report included notification that, as of May 1, 2017, criminal and serious traffic cases postponed in open court at the Towson location of the District Court, will be rescheduled on the spot. This process is already in place at the Catonsville and Essex locations. Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott D. Shellenberger advised that 700 Baltimore County police officers are now equipped with body cameras, representing the halfway point of the rollout. Angela J. Silverstein, Family Law Committee Chair, reported that the committee’s Annual Forum was to be held on May 18th, where Magistrate Richard J. Gilbert was slated to provide the legislative update and Richard Jacobs was offering a case law update. Alaina L. Storie, Young Lawyers Chair, announced that the Committee donated $7,700 to the Women’s Law Center of Maryland at the May 1 Law Day ceremonies. The donation represented money raised by the Young Lawyers’ Bull Roast and membership donations throughout the year. President Robert J. Thompson reminded everyone that our Annual Golf Outing/Beginners’ Clinic will be held on Thursday, June 1, at Rocky Point Golf Course, and that the Annual Stated Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 22 at 4:30, in Ceremonial Courtroom No. 5. The meeting will be followed by a reception at the Towson Tavern located at 516 York Road. Michael Esposito reported that, for the year ending May 1, 2017, jury trial prayers were down 31% from the year before. Of 820 cases with next-day jury trial prayers, only four resulted in jury trials and four THE ADVOCATE
resulted in bench trials. Under the category of old business, a concern was brought to the committee’s attention surrounding MDEC’s titling of certain notifications and their propensity to confuse the recipient. Reports and old/new business were generally brief, allowing ample time for State Senator Bobby Zirkin’s now-traditional annual recap of the recently concluded legislative session. Sen. Zirkin described the legislative atmosphere as the worst he has experienced in 20 years because of extreme ideological reactions to proposed legislation, as opposed to reasoned debate. Still, the legislature managed to pass several notable bills. Maryland has banned fracking. Apparently, Maryland is the first state to impose a ban legislatively. In another bill, the limitations period for an action for damages arising from sexual abuse that occurred while a victim was a minor was increased from seven years after the victim attains the age of majority to 20 years. In an effort to curb the current opioid epidemic, SB 539 was enacted prohibiting a person from knowingly distributing a mixture of controlled dangerous substances that contains heroin and a detectable amount of fentanyl. The sentence upon conviction is up to 10 years, and shall be consecutive to, and not concurrent with, any other sentence imposed under any other provision of law. While no new legislation was passed regarding cash bail, it was noted during the meeting that, since Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh opined that Maryland’s cash bail system is likely unconstitutional, and the Court of Appeals issued a rule curbing the imposition of cash bails, “no bails” have increased 100%, failures to appear are on the rise, and the Baltimore County Detention Center houses an average of 100 more inmates a day. The next Bench/Bar meeting will be September 12, 2017, 8 a.m. Members have been notified of their appointment to this committee.
Page 5
July 2017
COUNTY COUNCIL UPDATE by Thomas H. Bostwick Greetings! The members of the Baltimore County Council are grateful for the opportunity to update the County Bar on the activities of our County’s legislative body. Your seven member County Council serves as the independent Legislative Branch of County government. The Council meets yearround, generally in bi-monthly Legislative Sessions (held at night) and bi-monthly Work Sessions (held during the day). All proceedings are open to the public, and the Legislative Session is broadcast on BCTV (Comcast & Verizon channel 25). The Council’s Website: www.baltimorecountycouncil.org provides helpful information as well. At its Legislative Session on May 1, 2017 the County Council approved Bill 15-17 – Basic Services Maps. Article 4A of the Baltimore County Zoning Regulations sets out the provisions for growth management in Baltimore County. The growth management provisions are designed to facilitate implementation of the Master Plan with specific regard to the quantity and timing of new growth and development. Basic Services Maps are designed to aid the County in providing public services (water, sewer and transportation) in an amount that facilitates the level of growth allowed by the current zoning. This growth management system applies inside the Urban Rural Demarcation Line (URDL). Bill 15-17 repeals the 2016 Basic Services Maps and enacts the 2017 Basic Services Maps.
Resolution adopts the Baltimore County Growth Tiers and Map as an amendment to the Baltimore County Master Plan 2020 to serve as a guide for the development of the County. The Maryland General Assembly passed the Sustainable Growth and Agricultural Preservation Act of 2012 (SB 236, Chapter 149). This law established a system of growth tiers for the State. Baltimore County developed its Growth Tiers and associated Growth Tiers Map, which were administratively adopted by the Director of Planning in December 2012. All property located within Baltimore County now has a Growth Tier status. The Baltimore County Growth Tiers do not alter zoning classifications or permitted land uses, but instead regulate the level of residential use served by public sewage disposal facilities and individual residential on-site septic disposal systems through the development approval process. The tiers and map were amended once on October 25, 2016. Resolution 54-17 adopts the Growth Tiers and Map as part of the Master Plan, as required by Section 1-509 of the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The Map can be reviewed at the Department of Planning.
Also on May 1, 2017, the Council confirmed the appointment by Fourth District Councilman Julian E. Jones, Jr. of Ms. Kendra Randall Jolivet, Esq. to a three year term on the County Board of Appeals. Ms. Jolivet is a partner and co-founder of the firm of Randall & Sonnier, LLC. Her practice areas include family law, juvenile law, entertainment, and general civil litigation. The Council offers its sincerest congratulations to Ms. Jolivet on her appointment. At its Legislative Session on June 5, 2017, the Council approved Resolution 54-17 – Amendment to Baltimore County Master Plan 2020. This THE ADVOCATE
Page 6
LEGAL RESEARCH AND WRITING Since 1999 Maryland and DC Barred Univ. of Md. with honors, Law Review References Available 443-841-5331
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 7
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 8
July 2017
CIVILITY AND ADVOCACY: NOT MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE by Alaina L. Storie
On April 25, 2017 the Young Lawyers and Professionalism Committees hosted an informative and well-attended seminar on civility and advocacy. The panel of speakers included Judge Vicki BallouWatts, Judge Keith R. Truffer, Mary Roby Sanders and Drake C. Zaharris. The speakers educated those in attendance on the ways of conducting oneself as an attorney that can zealously advocate for the client, while also maintaining professional, courteous and respectful relationships with opposing counsel and the Bench. In other words – these are not “mutually exclusive” concepts.
Do not personally attack no matter how angry you may be Lawyers talk AND Judges talk The Honorable Keith R. Truffer Always be willing to look at your own conduct From the start, establish a relationship that is productive Lawyers are uniquely positioned to solve problems Do not go against your instincts Be up front with your clients on how you conduct yourself as an attorney
Prior to the program, participants were invited to anonymously submit questions or topics of discussion for the panel. Judge Truffer moderated and called on each panel member to speak about a certain topic. This led to much discussion between panel members and follow up questions from the audience. Both “Lawyer to Lawyer” interactions and “Lawyer to Court” interactions were addressed. Judge Truffer utilized the Socratic method of teaching by calling on participants to give examples of when “Lawyer to Lawyer” interactions or “Lawyer to Court” interactions were not always the most civil. Participants also touched on the topics of selfrepresented litigants, the pitfalls of “specialization”, conducting oneself in a deposition, the filing of discovery motions, and opposing counsel who is also a friend.
Mary Roby Sanders, Esquire Be a problem solver, not a problem maker This is your career – think about the long term effects Do not get personally invested Keep a sense of humor Pick your battles Drake C. Zaharris, Esquire Scorched earth with opposing counsel can hurt the clients If you are the one who has messed up, extend an olive branch Do not be afraid to tell your client that aggression will not get you to the goal; you need to be professional The lawyers who are professional and keep it together are the ones who are recognized as good attorneys
Here are some of the takeaways from each of the panelists: The Honorable Vicki Ballou-Watts Credibility is our stock and trade – skill with no credibility will hurt you You can be remembered for just one instance Remain calm and set the tone when dealing with an overly aggressive lawyer If a Judge is out of line, speak to other attorneys you trust about what happened
THE ADVOCATE
This is just a sampling of all the great pointers, tips, and wisdom imparted during this program. Judge Lisa A. Phelps was also in attendance and left us with parting words of “our work is stressful enough”, so be a “voice of civility” and “every day commit to treating everyone with respect and patience.” On behalf of Jill Green, Chair of the Professionalism Committee, and myself, Chair of the Young Lawyers Committee, we thank the speakers and those who attended this excellent program!
Page 9
July 2017
DUI, INTERLOCK & NOAH’S LAW by Ari J. Kodeck Many criminal law practitioners have received that phone call at 3a.m.: "Hi, I was arrested for DUI/ DWI. What should I do?" If you attended the recent Criminal Law Committee's primer on this issue, you can confidently answer that call and offer the right advice. The program was presented to BCBA members on May 17, 2017 by well-rounded panelists Leonard Shapiro, Assistant Attorney General Neil Jacobs and Seth Okin. The discussion focused on the recent changes to the law regarding the imposition of ignition interlocks by the Motor Vehicle Administration. Should your client be convicted of a DWI/DUI, the Court must order an ignition interlock. The length of time the interlock is required depends on the BAC and the number of prior DWI/DUI convictions.
The last point covered by the panel involved requesting modification of the time period for a suspended license or seeking a restricted license. The panel split on the interpretation of the statutory language. Mr. Shapiro insisted that the Transportation Article §16-205.1(O) permits the MVA to modify OR issue a restricted license if certain criteria are met. Mr. Jacobs insisted that the MVA can issue a restricted license if certain criteria are met but not modify a suspension if those same criteria are met. However both agreed that it is dependent on which party the practitioner represents. Since the attendees included a large number of defense counsel, we all agreed that Mr. Jacobs read it wrong! The discussion was brought to a close with applause and thanks to the panel members for their time and effort.
In short: If your client’s BAC is .08 or greater, at the very least, the interlock is required for 180 days. The discussion considered consequences when the client holds a commercial driver’s license or if the client operated a commercial vehicle at the time of the arrest. Mr. Jacobs confirmed that the MVA can issue a CDL with an alcohol restriction but not with the interlock restriction. This is very important to a client trying to maintain their commercial driving status for employment purposes.
BANKRUPTCY—Chapters 7 and 13 1-800-BANKRUPT or 410-288-5788 Law Office of Nicholas J. Del Pizzo, III, P.A. STOP
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.
THE ADVOCATE
Page 10
July 2017
Click HERE for the complete flyer with names and affiliations of speakers, moderators and sponsors.
THE ADVOCATE
Page 11
July 2017
ESTATES & TRUSTS COMMITTEE THIRD ANNUAL DINNER by Mariela C. D’Alessio The Estates & Trust Committee of the Baltimore County Bar Associated celebrated its third annual dinner on May 24th at the Country Club of Maryland. The event was chaired by Mariela C. D’Alessio of Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, LLC, the incoming vice chair of the committee. The event was well attended with over thirty (30) individuals including Alice A. Bonner, the outgoing chair, and Meredith B. Martin, the incoming chair. Attendees were able to socialize in a relaxed setting with honored guests: Judge William R. Evans, Judge Juliet F. Fisher, Judge Arthur M. Frank and the Honorable Grace G. Connolly. The attendees had an opportunity to learn some fun and interesting facts about the honored guests. In addition, the Honorable Grace G. Connolly reported on the 2017 Maryland legislative developments. Special thanks to Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, LLC and Pessin Katz Law for sponsoring the event.
Estates & Trusts - 2017-2018 Program Schedule September 18, 2017, 5 p.m.
Kick-Off Social
Towson Tavern
October 18, 2017, 5 p.m.
Financial Program
Grand Jury Room
November 29, 2017, 5 pm
Special Needs Trusts/ABLE Accounts
Grand Jury Room
December 5, 2017, noon
Succession Planning
Grand Jury Room
January 30, 2018, noon
[Alternate date for Gibber Presentation]
Grand Jury Room
February 28, 2018
Gibber Presentation
Grand Jury Room
March 28, 2018, 5 pm
ADR
Grand Jury Room
April 25, 2018
Guardianships
Grand Jury Room
May 2018
Legislative Update w/Orphans’ Court Judges and Register of Wills
TBD
June 26, 2018, Noon
Elective Share Update
Grand Jury Room
THE ADVOCATE
Page 12
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 13
July 2017
FAMILY LAW DIVISION MEETING by William R. Levasseur, Jr.
There are two items to report from this month's Family Division Meeting which occurred on June 7, 2017: (1) In the context of DV cases, apparently, some of us are submitting Final Protective Orders that are not in the form used by the courts [cc-dc-dv-003 (Rev. 10/2015)]. If we have cases where the parties have reached some sort of an agreement on an issue within the jurisdiction of the domestic violence statute that we wish to have included in the Final Protective Order, we should submit that as an attachment or an exhibit to be incorporated by, and into, the form order that the court will issue. It is not good practice to submit a separate order which is intended to substitute for the Final Protective Order. These will never be signed by a judge.
do not raise that as a separately titled court paper, the Clerk's Office will not put the case on track for a preliminary determination regarding Baltimore County's jurisdiction over the matter. As always, we invite you to contact us with any concerns or questions that should be directed to the Family Law Division of the Baltimore County Circuit Court. Best regards to all. Very truly yours, William R. Levasseur, Jr. 410-321-0400; wrlevasseurjr@levlawmd.com Annamaria M. Walsh 410-494-4921; awalsh@awalshlegal.com
(2) In UCCJEA cases, where an attorney knows that there is an action pending in another jurisdiction, or in a case where we can anticipate the likelihood of a jurisdictional issue being raised under UCCJEA, the court is asking us to raise the jurisdiction issue in advance by filing a separately titled pleading/paper requesting a Jurisdictional Conference. Such conferences are assigned to either Judge Jakubowski or Judge Cavanaugh in Baltimore County. However, the court is seeing more and more cases that make their way to a judge or magistrate for a hearing on the substantive issues raised in the pleadings when a jurisdictional conflict becomes apparent. When that happens, the case will stall and the court will not reach the substantive issues. The logistics of setting up an Inter-Jurisdictional Conference between judges from two different states, or setting up a hearing where testimony can be taken on the jurisdictional issue, are quite substantial; these undertakings require a lot of preparation. It is in our client's best interest to have this jurisdictional issue scheduled in advance so that the logistics of the Jurisdiction Conference can be worked out between the competing courts. Also, the Clerk's Office is not going to be reading the substance of our complaints to enroll a foreign judgment to discern if there is a jurisdictional issue requiring a conference; thus, if we
THE ADVOCATE
Page 14
Divorce, or probating an estate. Your client has options when it comes to the real estate. Hawk Mortgage Group can help you and your client sort out the options and strategies they have at hand, to help at this time ‌ and down the road. Jeffrey T. Hawk, President 443-619-7900 - Office 410-241-7071 - Cell Jeff@hawkmortgagegroup.com
July 2017
Maryland Hispanic Bar Association Annual Gala September 28, 2017, 6 p.m. Cocktail Reception followed by Dinner and Presentation Martin’s Crosswinds, 7400 Greenway Center Drive, Greenbelt, MD Guest Speaker: The Hon. Kevin Kamenetz, County Executive Baltimore County Featured Band: Grupo Latino Continental Cost, $85 per ticket
Online registration
On June 28, 2017, Dean Ronald Weich sent a note to faculty and staff to deliver big law school news: “I am both proud and pained to let you know that our wonderful colleague Jill Green will leave UB later this summer to become Associate Dean for Student Services and Career Development at the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. This is a great professional opportunity for Jill – in her new role at Hopkins she’ll oversee the operations and overall strategic direction of multiple units within the Carey School, including student services, academic advising, career development and financial aid. “Jill graduated from UB in 1994 and came back to work here in 2006. In the six years Jill has served as Assistant Dean for Career Development she has been resourceful, indefatigable and hugely successful in helping UB students begin their legal careers, even in the difficult job market of recent years. She is also deeply involved in the Maryland legal community and has been an amazing ambassador for UB throughout the region.” Reactions from Green’s colleagues were bittersweet. “I think I’ll admit to having mixed emotions,” wrote Professor Elizabeth Keyes, director of the Immigrant Rights Clinic. “The mature, gracious part of me that will be happy for Jill at some point is completely drowned out right now by how much I will miss her.” Externship Director Millicent Newhouse will serve as Interim Assistant Dean for Career Development, Weich said. Jill was an active member of the BCBA from the minute she joined the Association. She participated in numerous activities and committees, Chaired the Professionalism Committee, and is singularly responsible for building a rock-solid relationship between the BCBA and UB Law Students. While her participation will be greatly missed, her legacy instilled in law students will benefit them, and future law students at UB, for many years to come. Congratulations Jill Green, and Johns Hokins Carey Business School.
THE ADVOCATE
Page 15
July 2017
BCBA ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT by David F. Luby
On June 1, 2017, members of the Baltimore County Bar Association, along with some friends and valued sponsors, took part in one of the greatest annual events at Rocky Point Golf Course. The weather was perfect and the course was in great shape. To quote Jeff Bell, the Head Golf Professional, “With all the rain we’ve had, if you can’t grow grass, you’re doing it wrong.” The staff at Rocky Point was exceptional in helping this to be another memorable outing for a good cause. This year, the Entertainment Committee was able to raise $1,254 for the benefit of The Women’s Law Center!
50/50 Raffle $750 Total, $375 to the winner James Shea -who graciously donated his winnings back to The Women’s Law Center! Drawing Winners: 1. Golf for Four at any Baltimore County Public Course (donated by Jeff Bell, PGA Pro) - Adam Konstas 2. 4 club level tickets to see the O’s, including parking pass (donated by Multi-Specialty HealthCare) - Rob Erdman
Of course, there was golf to play and awards to be given out, so without further ado:
3. $50 Pro Shop Gift Card - Kris Hallengren
FIRST PLACE (with a score of 57) Marshall Henslee David Lemanski Bryan Tillman Betty Domozych
And of course: BEST DRESSED FOURSOME “Time to Make the Donuts!” Rob Erdman Becky Fleming Dave Luby Michael Siri
SECOND PLACE (with a score of 59) Bruce Laird Rick Schmidt Phil Kelly Brian Bennett
There was also a “Beat the Pro/Buy the Birdie” on the Par 3, 11th Hole that boasted 100% participation and raised an additional $240 for the benefit of The Women’s Law Center!
MOST HONEST SCORE (74) David Lampton Justin Dunbar Brett Buckwalter David Stallings
Atlantic Caterers provided a pre-round lunch and a delicious Bull Roast style dinner, and the “adult beverage” cart was bone dry as the sun stated to set on another great year. Please look out for next year’s golf outing.
LONGEST DRIVE, Hole #18 (Sponsored by Gore Bros, Joe Grabowski) WINNERS: Gerry Ruter & Leanne Schrecengost CLOSEST TO THE PIN (Sponsored by ASAP, Betty, Charlie & Danielle Winchester) #4 – Brian Bennett #7 – Chuck Thorne #14 – Ben Norris
Editorial Note: Special thanks to Doris, Rachel and Maxine, for their tireless efforts to make sure this event runs flawlessly year after year. Thanks also to Jon Herbst, the incoming Entertainment Chair. Thank you for trusting me with this job, Mr. President. This event is considered the “Super Bowl” of events for the Chair of the Entertainment Committee, so my watch has ended. Continued on page 17
THE ADVOCATE
Page 16
July 2017
BCBA ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Continued from page 16
Please consider supporting our gracious sponsors (listed below). Without their generosity, the Entertainment Committee would not have been able to provide a check to Michelle Siri, Executive Director of the Women’s Law Center.
Golf Cart Sponsor The Kaifer Insurance Group Mark A. Kaifer, Esquire 120 Cockeysville Road, Suite 100 Cockeysville, MD 21030 410-584-7610 mark@kaiferinsurance.com
Thanks again to all our sponsors:
Tee Sponsors
S IGNATURE S PONSOR R EVERE B ANK
SPENCE | BRIERLEY, P.C. David F. Luby, Esquire 409 Washington Avenue, Suite 1000 Towson, MD 21204 410-823-5003 david@spencefirm.com
Robert C. Barclay, Senior Vice President 502 Washington Avenue, Suite 103 Towson, MD 21204 410-324-4308 robert.barclay@reverebank.com
Designated Sponsors Closest to the Pin Contest Advantage Sentencing Alternative Programs, Inc. Charlie, Betty & Danielle Winchester 309 East Joppa Road Towson, MD 21286 410-832-1717 asap25west@aol.com Longest Drive Contest Gore Brothers Reporting & Videoconferencing Joseph Grabowski 20 South Charles Street, Suite 901 Baltimore, MD 21201 410-837-3027 jgrabowski@gorebrothers.com Beverage Cart Sponsor DeNovo Attorney Services Samantha A. Mason, J.D. 30 East Padonia Road, Suite 207 Lutherville, MD 21093 443-895-4999 smason@denovoattorneyservices.com
Optimum Performance & Physical Therapy Jeffrey Woods, MSPT, COMT, CSCS, CFT 8600 LaSalle Road, Chester Bldg, #322 Towson, MD 21286 410-828-6778 jeffreywoodspt@gmail.com Rosen, Sapperstein & Friedlander, LLC Jeffrey S. Rosen, CPA, CGMA, MBA 300 Red Brook Boulevard, Suite 200 Owings Mills, MD 21117 410-581-0800 jrosen@rsandf.com B. F. Semon, Certified General Appraiser Bernie Semon 744 Dulaney Valley Road, Suite 6 Towson, MD 21204 410-321-1926 x21 bfsemon@aol.com Sitting Judges Campaign Vote to Retain Judges Deeley, Finifter, Jakubowski and Robinson Authority: Baltimore County Sitting Judges Slate Committee, Eileen G. Thompson, Treasurer
Continued on page 18
THE ADVOCATE
Page 17
July 2017
BCBA ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Continued from page 17
Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, LLC Mariela C. D’Alessio, Esquire 600 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Towson, MD 21204 410-821-0070 x115 mdalessio@sgs-law.com
The Herbst Law Firm Jonathan M. Herbst, Esquire 400 East Pratt Street, 8th Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 410-207-2598 www.mdtriallawyer.com
Caves Valley Partnership Lee S. Seidman, CFO 1 Olympic Place, Suite 1210 Towson, MD 21204 443-872-0747 lseidman@cavesvalleypartners.com
Howanski, Meadows & Erdman, LLC 401 Washington Avenue, Suite 802 Towson, MD 21204 410-296-3630 www.hme-law.com
Chesapeake Valuation Advisors Mark W. Norris, CPA/ABV, CVA, MAFF, ASA 2045 York Road, 3rd Floor Lutherville, MD 21093 410-746-8722 mnorris@chesapeakevaluation.com
Irwin Reporting Monica Sienkiewicz 301 West Pennsylvania Avenue Towson, MD 21204 410-494-1880 depo@irwinreporting.com
Destiny Mortgage Joseph Shagena 606 Bosley Avenue Towson, MD 21204 410-584-2274 jshagena@destinygrp.net
Katz, Abosch, Windesheim, Gershman & Freedman Alvin Katz, CPA 9690 Deereco Road, suite 500 Timonium, MD 21093 410-307-6380 akatz@katzabosch.com
DTI Global Barbara Landes, VP Court Reporting Solutions 300 East Lombard Street, Suite 1125 Baltimore, MD 21202 1-800-292-4789 Barbara.landes@dtiglobal.com
Multi-Specialty HealthCare Bruce Laird, Senior Marketing Executive 540 East Belvedere Avenue, Suite 200 Baltimore, MD 21212 410-933-5678 blaird@multi-specialty.com
Dunbar Law Justin S. Dunbar, Esquire 5850 Waterloo Road, Suite 140 Columbia, MD 21045 443-325-7275 justin@dunbarlawoffice.com
THE ADVOCATE
Page 18
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 19
July 2017
CRIMINAL LAW UPDATE by Matthew I. Wyman Last month, Bob Lidston penned his final Criminal Law Update after nearly 18 years for The Advocate. As both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, his articles were usually the first things I looked for each month (after scanning to see if I appeared in any pictures, of course). I wasn’t the only one. I can only imagine how many hours of research he saved us with his concise and poignant summaries. Well, I can stop imagining now. As the incoming chair of the Criminal Law Committee, I have “volunteered” to author this column for the foreseeable future. I can assure you, there will be a learning curve, as I strive to carry on his work. That being said, I certainly welcome any comments, or suggestions to matt@mwymanlaw.com June’s volume of the Amicus Curiarum contains three decisions relevant to criminal practice. Two from the Court of Appeals, and one from the Court of Special Appeals. Richard A. Edwards v. State of Maryland, No. 47, September Term 2016, filed May 24. 2017. Opinion by Greene, J. Richard Edwards was convicted of first-degree rape, and a variety of related offenses, in the Circuit Court of St. Mary’s County. During the trial, testimony from the victim indicated that her assailant had used her cigarette lighter immediately prior to the assault, as well as some other items. Edwards filed a petition for Post-Conviction DNA Testing under §8-201 of Criminal Procedure Article and Maryland Rule 4-701. The Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County denied the petition, stating in part that there “was no possibility that a DNA test performed on the items requested would exonerate Petitioner.” The Court of Appeals reversed the decision, and ordered the testing of the cigarette lighter. The Court noted in the opinion that the standard for relief under §8-201 was not whether the information would exonerate the Defendant, but merely if it had the potential to produce exculpatory or mitigating THE ADVOCATE
evidence. In this case, since the victim indicated the perpetrator had touched the lighter, and a DNA transfer would have been possible, the Defendant is entitled to have the lighter tested. State of Maryland v. Andrew Daniel Baker, No. 55, September Term, 2016, filed May 22, 2017. Opinion by Getty, J. Baker was charged with assaulting two individuals in Cecil County. The matter involved a gang shoot-out, and there was at least one cross-complaint involving a victim, Mr. Ellis. In the middle of Mr. Baker’s trial, Mr. Ellis became an uncooperative witness. The state sought to compel his testimony by granting him immunity. It was then discovered that Ellis’ attorney (who would have been present to consult Mr. Ellis during his testimony) was the brother of the Assistant State’s Attorney in Mr. Baker’s case. After a brief recess, the Judge declared a sua sponte mistrial over Mr. Baker’s objection. The Judge did not make mention of any other alternatives, nor did she make a clear finding of “manifest necessity” at the time. When the matter came back for trial at a later date, before the same Judge, Baker argued that jeopardy had attached, and the indictments should be dismissed. Only at that time, in denying Baker’s request, did the Judge place her reasons for her earlier decision on the record. Baker then appealed that denial to the COSA which granted his motion to dismiss. The State petitioned to the COA which affirmed the dismissal. The Court noted that the Judge held the majority of the conversation regarding the mistrial in chambers, off the record. At no point, were any reasonable alternatives, such as substitute counsel, mentioned on the record. This led to the Court of Appeals declaring that the Judge was required to consider both the reasons, and any viable alternatives to a mistrial, on the record, in order to make a finding of manifest necessity before granting a mistrial.
Page 20
Continued on page 21
July 2017
CRIMINAL LAW UPDATE Continued from page 20 Casey O. Johnson v. State of Maryland, No. 2465, September Term 2015, filed March 29, 2017. Opinion by Leahy, J. Johnson was driving her vehicle in Montgomery County when she was stopped for a broken tail light. At that point, the officers became suspicious. Johnson consented to a search of her pockets which were empty. Still not satisfied, the officers asked the passengers to exit the car so a canine could scan for drugs. Before the dog arrived, an officer conducted a consent search of one of the passengers which revealed a small bag of marijuana in his waistband, and an odor of PCP coming from his breath. Based solely on the evidence recovered from the passenger, the officers called off the canine. They then conducted a search of Johnson’s trunk where Marijuana and a scale were found in a backpack. Five hundred forty-four dollars were also found in Johnson's pocket when she was arrested.
Johnson sought to have the evidence suppressed as having been obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment. The Circuit Court for Montgomery County denied her motion. She was then convicted at trial of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Johnson appealed to the COSA which reversed the trial court, and excluded the evidence obtained from the trunk. The state argued that under the Carroll doctrine, the search was permissible because the drugs on the passenger would create probable cause to believe that more items may be in the trunk. However, the COSA ruled that there was no articulation as to why the drugs on the passenger would lead to the belief that drugs were in the trunk. There was no testimony that the passenger had access to the trunk and the driver was found without any drugs on her person. Additionally, there was no evidence that drugs had been used in the vehicle.
Charles W. Michaels, Esquire Trial Level and Appellate Level Research & Writing Trial Level Assignments, $150/hour Appellate Level Assignments, $200/hour 20 years experience with research and writing at all levels Invaluable assistance with trial-level pleadings, motions, memoranda and appellate brief drafting for Maryland appellate courts and Federal appellate courts Advance required.
Contact 443-846-5207 or cwmichaels@earthlink.net References available upon request. Member, BCBA
THE ADVOCATE
Page 21
July 2017
Committee News COMMITTEE CALENDAR, HANDOUTS, CONTACT INFO All Committee Chair and Vice-Chair contact information, upcoming programs and handouts from those programs already held this year can be found on the website at www.bcba.org. Click on “Committee Reports, then select the committee of interest.
CLE COMMITTEE
ESTATES & TRUSTS COMMITTEE
September 14, 2017, 4 p.m., Legends of the Boardroom. Hyatt Regency, Baltimore. See flyer on page 11 of this issue.
September 18, 2017, 5 p.m., Kick-Off Social. Towson Tavern.
October 24, 2017, 5 p.m., Top 10 Tips for Marketing to Spanish-Speaking Clients. Grand Jury Room.
October 18, 2017, 5 p.m., Financial Program. Grand Jury Room.
November 1, 2017, 5 p.m., What is it worth? & Show me the money! Towson Tavern.
November 29, 2017, 5 p.m., Special Needs Trusts/ABLE Accounts. Grand Jury Room December 5, 2017, noon, Succession Planning. Grand Jury Room
February 20, 2018, noon, Client Communications: Avoiding Malpractice and Ethical Complaints in Your Law Practice. Grand Jury Room. April 19, 2018, 5 p.m., The Enneagram Personality System and Conflict Resolution. Grand Jury Room. ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE
January 30, 2018, noon, [Alternate date for Gibber Presentation]. Grand Jury Room. February 28, 2018, 5 p.m., Gibber Presentation. Grand Jury Room. March 28, 2018, 5 p.m., ADR. Grand Jury Room.
August 3, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room August 12, 2017, 9 a.m., Annual Statewide Softball Tournament. Watkins Park
April 25, 2018, 5 p.m., Guardianships. Grand Jury Room May 2018, 5 p.m., Legislative Update with Orphans’ Court Judges and Register of Wills.
October 26, 2017, 6 p.m., Wines & Whiskey FR for Show Your Soft Side. Maryvale Prep. December 6, 2017, 5 p.m., Annual Holiday Party. Towson Tavern.
June 26, 2018, Noon, Elective Share Update. Grand Jury Room.
TENTATIVE: June 7, 2018, Golf Tournament.
September 26, 2017, 6 p.m., Annual Meet & Greet Family Law Judges & Magistrates. Hayfields Country Club.
FAMILY LAW COMMITTEE
Continued on page 23
THE ADVOCATE
Page 22
July 2017
Committee News October 11, 2017, 6 p.m., Reunification. Towson Tavern.
Limitations
of
November 14, 2017, 6 p.m., Domestic Torts. Woodholme Country Club. December 14, 2017, Noon, Wasting of Marital Real Property. Grand Jury Room December 19, 2017, Noon, 100 Days to Trial. Grand Jury Room.
Please email Maxine Morrow if you would like to be added to any Committee list, to receive emails specific to that Committee. You will remain on your selected Committee(s) until you ask to be removed, with the exception of Bench/ Bar and Lawyers Assistance, which are by appointment of the President. If you are interested in being considered for Bench/Bar and/or Lawyers Assistance Committee(s) for 2017-2018, please email Doris Barnes.
January 4, 2018, Noon, Marital Property. Grand Jury Room. January 18, 2018, Noon, Preparing the Custody Evaluator for Testimony. Grand Jury Room. February 21, 2018, 6 p.m., Custody Evaluations. Speaker: Gina Santoro. Towson Tavern. March 22, 2018, 6 p.m., Sexual Abuse Allegations.
Calling all collectors ‌ if you have Law Day buttons older than 1996, we would be happy to add them to our display. Please drop them off at the Bar Office, thanks!
April 2018. TBD May 17, 2018, 4:30 p.m., Annual Forum: Case Law and Legislative Update. County Courts Building. Fall Mini-Series: Evidentiary Issues 5-6:30 p.m., County Courts Building November 2, 2017, Tales of Family Law Evidence: Concerns from the Bench & Bar. November 9, 2017, Authentication of Emails and Review of Related Case Law. Fall Mini-Series: Advanced BIA Training Spring Mini-Series: Parenting Plans LAW DAY COMMITTEE August 15, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room.
Continued on page 24
THE ADVOCATE
Page 23
July 2017
Committee News February 22, 2018, 5 p.m., A View from Big Insurance. Grand Jury Room
LRIS COMMITTEE Please renew or consider joining the LRIS at this time. Application can be found on the website: LRIS Application. See flyer on page 32 of this issue.
April 10, 2018, 5 p.m., Jury Selection/Mock Trial. County Courts Building
MEMORIAL COMMITTEE
PRO BONO COMMITTEE
Please notify Doris Barnes at the Bar Office of the passing of any BCBA member. If this information is received in a timely manner, it will be emailed to all members. Thank you. Those members who will be honored at this year’s service on November 16, 2017, at 3:30 p.m., include: The Hon. Christian M. Kahl Constance Kellner Putzel Geoffrey K. Calderone, Jr. Lewis Leland Fleury
TENTATIVE: October 7, 2017, Fall Pro Bono Clinic. Eastern Technical High School.
If you know of any other BCBA Member who passed away (since August 15, 2016), please advise Doris Barnes immediately, so they can be included in the service. Thank you. This committee will meet on August 23, 2017, 5 p.m. in the Grand Jury Room. If you would like to serve on this committee, please feel free to attend the meeting. The reception for family and friends to honor and remember loved ones will be held again this year, immediately following the service on November 16th. Monetary contributions are greatly appreciated, and can be made payable to the BCBA, and mailed to the Bar Office, 100 County Courts Building, 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, MD 21204. Donors will be acknowledged on the printed program. In advance, thank you for your generosity. NEGLIGENCE, INSURANCE & WORKERS’ COMP COMMITTEE October 10, 2017, 5 p.m., Soft Tissue 101. Grand Jury Room.
October 25, 2017, 5 p.m., Annual Pro Bono Awards & Reception. PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE Committee Meetings, 5 p.m., Royston, Mueller, McLean & Reid, 102 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 600, Towson. September 12, 2017, November 14, 2017 January 9, 2018 TENTATIVE: April 18, 2018, District Court Judges Program. THE PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE is now accepting nominations for the J. EARLE PLUMHOFF PROFESSIONALISM AWARD, which will be presented at the Annual Banquet on January 25, 2018. Please email your nomination to Doris Barnes (doris@bcba.org) for consideration, no later than Monday, November 14, 2017. The Professionalism Committee requests nominations from Bar Association Members for the annual recipient of the J. Earle Plumhoff Professionalism Award, which will be presented at the Annual Black Tie Banquet in January.
November 15, 2017, 5 p.m., Accident & Bio-Medical Reconstruction. Grand Jury Room. Continued on page 25
THE ADVOCATE
Page 24
July 2017
Committee News SOLO & SMALL FIRM COMMITTEE
Recipient of this award must be: A Baltimore County Bar Association member at least 5 years;
July 17, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room.
Have made professional contributions Baltimore County Bar Association activities;
July 24, 2017, 12:30 p.m., Tour: Forensic Testing Lab. Baltimore City Police Department.. This program is limited to NINE registrations.
to
Have made contributions of time and resources that have gone largely unnoticed; and
STATE, LOCAL LAWS & ZONING COMMITTEE
High marks for dignity, integrity and civility.
July 19, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room.
PRIOR RECIPIENTS INCLUDE: 1999 2003 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE
Myles F. Friedman Richard A. Reid Leon Berg Keith R. Truffer Carolyn H. Thaler Jennifer B. Aist Christopher W. Nicholson Kristine K. Howanski Harris J. “Bud” George Mary Roby Sanders Robert L. Hanley Jr. Robert J. Steinberg Herbert R. O’Conor C. Drake Zaharris Carl R. Gold
July 20, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room. YOUNG LAWYERS COMMITTEE July 24, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room. Running Club. Monthly runs continue on the second Wednesday of each month, for anyone who is interested. For the upcoming cold months, meet in the lobby of 401 Washington Avenue (rather than at the courthouse fountain in Patriot Plaza). We recommend that runners bring reflective gear, headlamps, etc.
PUBLIC AWARENESS & SPEAKERS COMMITTEE AKA CIVICS & LAW ACADEMY August 1, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room. REAL PROPERTY COMMITTEE July 18, 2017, 5 p.m., Planning Meeting. Grand Jury Room.
THE ADVOCATE
All Committee Chair and Vice-Chair contact information, upcoming programs and handouts from those programs already held this year can be found on the website at www.bcba.org. Click on “Committee Reports, then select the committee of interest.
Page 25
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 26
July 2017
What are your photos worth? What if you woke up tomorrow and they were ALL gone? Take a few minutes to check out this service. Here is a link to an introduction video (90 sec): https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=izLiqnX5h2o.
Protect your personal and organization’s photographs forever. Guarantee they will be in a retrievable format 10, 20, 50+ years from today. The “free” services are a gamble not worth taking, since they own your photographs, and can remove them at any time. What would you do if you logged on, only to find them all gone?! Email forever100plus@gmail.com for more information on how to protect your legacy.
And one (3.5 min) to explain the permanent storage concept: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=K7k-pqJZ92w.
Continued on page 22
THE ADVOCATE
Page 27
July 2017
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
THE ADVOCATE
Page 28
July 2017
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. GARY MILES, Chair RICHARD LYNAS, Vice-Chair STUART AXILBUND JIM BEACH MARY CHALAWSKY MARISSA JOELSON JAY MILLER JOSE MOLINA SAM MOXLEY JOE MURTHA JIM QUINN BILL SALTYSIAK MARK VAN BAVEL
THE ADVOCATE
443-632-1760 410-288-1099 410-832-7579 410-241-8538 410-649-2000 917-226-6472 410-951-7165 443-851-7353 410-733-3306 410-583-6969 443-703-3041 410-583-8883 410-337-5291
Page 29
July 2017
Signature Sponsors
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. If you are interested in staffing the Clinic, please call Rachel M. Ruocco at 410-337-9100 or email rachel@bcba.org. Jerry Blake Julius Blattner Jessica Corace Keith Franz Bruce Friedman Bambi Glenn Valerie Ibe Michael Jeffers Fu-Mei Jiang Richard Lebovitz Craig Little Brady Locher
THE ADVOCATE
Lisa Magil Mala Malhotro-Ortiz Paul Mayhew James Nolan Lynne Peace Larry Polen E. David Silverberg Brian Tillman Rob Tully Michelle Valenti Jordan Watts
The Baltimore County Bar Association continues its Signature Sponsor program, which enhances the opportunities for our sponsors, as well as our members. This single-tier program provides more engagement between our sponsors and our members. Each Signature Sponsor can host an event during the year, thereby reducing the cost of the event for members while providing added benefits. Sponsorships help the Bar Association maintain its current dues level despite the increasing costs of providing topshelf 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).
Please join us in welcoming these sponsors and consider their services when you need them. Their ads are throughout each issue of The Advocate, distinguished by the gold ribbon that accompanies the ad. Please let them know you appreciate their support. Thank you.
Page 30
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 31
July 2017
THE ADVOCATE
Page 32
July 2017
BCBA Members are encouraged to support our Annual Signature Sponsors. When you need a service they offer, please contact the following, thank you.
THE ADVOCATE
Page 33
July 2017
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
ATTENTION WRITERS The award-winning University of Baltimore Law Forum (“Law Forum”) is currently accepting articles for the Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 publications. Law Forum is the only law journal in the country that focuses solely on issues in Maryland and provides both practitioners and the community with information on the changes in Maryland law. We are hoping that members of the Baltimore County Bar Association will participate in this year’s publication. Article proposals may be submitted to the Law Forum Articles Editors, Christopher Rizakos at christopher.rizakos@ubalt.edu and Arien Parham at arien.parham@ubalt.edu by July 31, 2017.
MEMBER ADVERTISEMENTS TOWSON. Do you need a satellite office in Towson directly across from the Circuit Court? Share nicely furnished office space with parking. $250 per month. Call, 410-557-4170. CATONSVILLE. Office space available in the Catonsville/Arbutus area. Three potential offices for rent. Rent all three offices, or just take one. Share use of conference area and kitchen. Building newly renovated. Close proximity to Catonsville District Court and 695. Contact Sean for more information. 410-245-0732. TOWSON. Office sublease available at 401 Washington Ave. Professional setting with private and secure access. Total of 5 offices (3 fully-furnished) approx. 1,089 SF. Wired for phone/Internet; Access to conference rooms during business hours Mon-Fri. Term thru Dec 2018. Parking available at Balt. County lot across the street. Contact Jess Gordon at (410) 292-7862 or jgordon@jlmpartners.net. Seeking part-time legal work. Semi-retired criminal defense attorney seeking part-time work. Flexible hours and days. Willing to do office work, but can do much more if needed. Reasonable hourly rate. Towson to Hunt Valley area. Please call Carol at 443-694-1287. Towson. Furnished, interior office available for sublet.
Includes use of conference room, reception area, kitchenette, and internet. Possibility of referral/subcontractor work. Walk to both Towson courthouses. Contact Meredith Martin: 410-970-6495 or mm@meredithmartinlaw.com. Towson Office Space. Offices for rent in the heart of downtown Towson, overlooking the Old Courthouse. Receptionist, copy machine, conference facilities, nice people and other amenities. If interested, please contact Matthew Ortega at 443-921-8161 x407, for details. Maryland Reports, Volumes #1 to #345. Walnut looking book case included. Currently located in Pikesville area. $350 or best offer. Gerald Zimlin, zimlinlaw@comcast.net , 410-686-1911. Towson. Office space available in First-Class Suite directly across from the Towson District Court. Parking, use of conference rooms, library, receptionist, etc. included. Contact Keith at 410-821-6800.
THE ADVOCATE
Page 34
July 2017