THE ADVOCATE Newsletter of The Baltimore County Bar Association VOLUME XXVI, NO. 12
June 2018
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Adam Thomas Sampson In my final President’s Message of this Bar Year, I invite you to attend the installation for Rebecca Fleming as President of the Baltimore County Bar Association (BCBA) on Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 4:30 PM in Ceremonial Court Room No. 5. Please join us for a reception at the Towson Tavern immediately following the installation. President-Elect Fleming, in planning for the next bar year, has met with incoming committee chairs, proposed a budget, and scheduled several events. We look forward to her leadership. I also want to congratulate BCBA member, Baltimore County Circuit Court Judge Keith Truffer, who will become the next Maryland State Bar Association (MSBA) President, and Dana Williams, who will become its President-Elect. These gentlemen will be installed at the 2018 MSBA Conference in Ocean City, Maryland, which runs from Wednesday, June 13 through
Saturday, June 16. Many other BCBA members will serve as program chairs, speakers, or moderators during the MSBA Conference. They include: Speakers— President-Elect Rebecca Fleming, Yolanda Sonnier, Angela Grau, Norman I. Smith, Susan J. Land, Michael Lawlor, Michael P. May, Chelsea Ortgea, Erin A. Risch, Cynthia Leppert, M. Natalie McSherry, David J. McManus, Jr., Hon. John F. Fader, II, James O’C. Gentry, Glen Edward Frost, Margaret Mead, Chris West, and T. Wray McCurdy. Program Chairs— Michelle Siri, Wayne M. Willoughby, Pauline Onyamaechi, and Angela Grau. Moderators— Lisa D. Sparks, Yolanda Sonnier, Nicholas Hawkins, Jeff Trueman and Sara Arthur.
Inside This Edition Annual Sponsors Pg Bench/Bar Report Pg Calendar of Events Pg Committee News Pg Court Notices Pg District Ct Assignments Pg Golf Tournament Pg Judicial Portrait Fund Pg Judge Souder Pg Law Library Pg Member Ads Pg Members News Pg Orioles Game Pg Pro Bono Clinic Pg Professionalism Pg Technology Pg
21 7 3 18 4 4 12 26 5 24 28 16 14 6 11 8
cont’d on page 2
Revere Bank THE ADVOCATE
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June 2018
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Adam T. Sampson While the conference is a great time to network, relax and have fun, please be sure to take advantage of the many continuing legal education programs and materials. A link to the Schedule of Events and program topics is included here: http://annualmeeting.msba.org/wp-content/uploads/ sites/3/2018/05/Agenda-PDF-Annual-Meeting-2018MSBA-linked-1.pdf cont’d on page 2 After exploring the exhibit hall, meeting vendors, and attending education sessions each day, please stop by the BCBA Hospitality Suite in the evening beginning at 7:00 PM. The hospitality suite will be located at the Clarion Resort Fontainbleu Hotel in Cabana 202. I hope to see you “down’ne ocean, hon” …. Adam T. Sampson BCBA President, 2017-2018
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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 Craig R. Borchers, Young Lawyers Chair
The Advocate David F. Luby Committee Chair
June 2018 2. 7.
9:00am, Pro Bono Clinic, Owings Mills Library 12pm, Golf Tournament & Beginners’ Clinic, Rocky Point Golf Course 11. 5:00pm, Chair & Vice-Chair Committee Meeting, Ceremonial Courtroom #5 21. 3:30pm, Bar Foundation Meeting, Ceremonial Courtroom #5 21. 4:30pm, Stated Meeting & Presidents’ Reception, Ceremonial Courtroom #5 & Towson Tavern
Ari J. Kodeck Committee Vice -Chair
Contributing Writers Thomas H. Bostwick Mariela C. D’Alessio Justin E. Fine Bruce E. Friedman Laura C. Jenifer William R. Levasseur, Jr. Margaret M. McKee Hon. John J. Nagle, III Cecilia B. Paizs Kimberly K. P. Rothwell Jeffrey R. Scholnick Scott D. Shellenberger Alaina L. Storie Craig Ward Laurie M. Wasserman Whitney E. Wilder Matthew I. Wyman
July and August Committee Planning Meetings will be held throughout June, July and August. Please read the Committee News on pages 18 and 19 for Planning Meeting dates. You are welcomed and encouraged to attend and share your ideas for committee programming for the 2018 -2019 year.
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.
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June 2018
COURT NOTICES
MDEC IS COMING TO BALTIMORE COUNTY The Baltimore County MDEC Kickoff was held on Friday, June 8th. The Baltimore County District Court and Circuit Court are in full preparation mode for the February 19th, 2019 Go Live Date. For assistance and advice, please visit www.courts.state.md.us/mdec. Look for more information regarding MDEC and Baltimore County in future issues of The Advocate.
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A FAREWELL TO JUDGE SUSAN SOUDER by Matt Wyman This summer marks the retirement of Judge Susan Souder from the Circuit Court for Baltimore County. Judge Souder has served as a member of the Baltimore County Bench since 2002, and her presence will certainly be missed by many. Judge Souder graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Maryland. From there she attended Georgetown Law where she graduated in 1981. She was a member of the Dean’s list, and a law fellow. Prior to being appointed to the bench, Judge Souder had an illustrious career as a litigator. She began her legal career as a civil trial attorney for the US Department of Justice in 1981 where she litigated tax cases in Washington and Los Angeles. She then went on to work at Gordon Feinblatt, Rothman, Hoffberger and Hollander, and later Ballard, Spahr, Andrew and Ingersoll, and made partner at both firms. During her time there, she headed the litigation division for all of Baltimore, and handled a wide variety of civil matters in both federal and state courts. She was one of the most respected litigators in her field. In her last stop before being appointed, Judge Souder opened her own law office that she ran from 19982002. She handled general civil litigation, and was very successful, and gained a reputation of fighting hard for her clients. She was then appointed to the Circuit Court Bench by Governor Paris Glendenning in May of 2002. During her 15 years as a Circuit Court Judge, there probably isn’t a type of case that Judge Souder didn’t handle. She was known as a tough, but fair jurist. She expected the lawyers appearing before her to be prepared, and to have researched their issues. The ones who did were often rewarded for their efforts. Those who weren’t prepared made sure never to make that mistake again.
lades over her career to name them all. Some of the many highlights include being former President of the Women’s Bar Association of Maryland, and Maryland Chapter Chair of the Federal Bar Association. She has been active in the Baltimore County Bar Association and has chaired a number of committees over the years. She served as president of the Executive Women’s Network and was a member of numerous other bar associations and organizations over the years. In her time off of the bench, Judge Souder is incredibly active within her community of Catonsville. She is the chair of the Spring Grove Arboretum, and volunteers helping to plant over 1000 trees as a part of the Catonsville Tree Canopy Project. She is a charter member (and past president) of the Catonsville Rotary Club. She is also active in the CCBC Foundation and serves as Elder and Deacon at her church. On a personal note, I’ve known Judge Sounder almost my entire life. Prior to my mother passing away in 2015, Judge Sounder was one of her closest friends. That certainly didn’t stop them from having many “spirited debates” about all variety of topics over the years. When my mom was sick, Judge Souder would come over after work some days to check in on her, and she would always reply something along the lines of, “I’m fine, so tell me all the gossip from the courthouse,” and Judge Souder would happily oblige. In her retirement, Judge Souder plans to travel more extensively. She is also looking forward to spending more time with her son, Kyle and her beloved dogs. While she has certainly earned her retirement after such a prestigious career, one can’t help but think she will hardly be sitting still during retirement.
Judge Souder has had too many awards and accoTHE ADVOCATE
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June 2018
PRO BONO DAY by Michelle D. Siri On June 2, 2018, yet another rainy Saturday, a dozen or so stalwart attorneys reported for duty at the BCBA Pro Bono Legal Clinic. Organized by the Pro Bono Committee and in partnership with Maryland Legal Aid and Maryland Volunteer Legal Services, this was the second such event this year. Held at the Owings Mills Public Library, it was intended to provide brief legal information, referrals and advice to members of our community in the areas of family law, expungements, estates & trusts, landlord/tenant, and more.
Pro Bono Committee this year, running the program/ logistics and also for bringing snacks and coffee – always helpful when working on a Saturday morning! The Pro Bono Committee is already gearing up for the next bar year - stay tuned for more information on our Committee planning meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, July 24th. If you have colleagues or friends who are also interested in giving back in a convenient, yet meaningful manner, please let us know so we can sign them up for the Pro Bono Committee as well!
In less than three hours, we assisted approximately thirty people with their legal problems. These issues ranged from emancipation to expungement, taxes to termination, and everything in between. After a brief intake, clients were matched with volunteers based on availability and skillsets. Where answers couldn’t be fully provided, referrals were made and representatives from legal service providers were on-hand to point people in the right direction. By having clinics like this where the clients are, within their own communities, we are able to see more people and help better meet their needs. And by bringing everyone together in one convenient time and location we make obtaining pro bono hours that much easier for attorneys. It was a classic win-win situation. We are so grateful to all the volunteer attorneys for sharing their time and expertise with the people of Baltimore County. Thanks to them, we were able to provide legal assistance to dozens of individuals – most of whom would not have been able to obtain legal representation on their own! For many of the volunteers that day, as well as those otherwise active on the Pro Bono Committee, this is just a small portion of the pro bono work they do and we really appreciate it. It not only helps our community, but also helps our courts run smoother and more efficiently, as self-represented litigants become more and more common. And of course, pro bono work in general improves the reputation of the legal profession and highlights the altruistic nature of attorneys. Thanks should also be given to Rachel and her staff for doing a lot of the leg work. And of course a HUGE THANKS to Virginia Reed, for chairing the THE ADVOCATE
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BENCH BAR REPORT by Carl R. Gold The Bench Bar Committee’s penultimate meeting was May 10, 2018. The Committee held a moment of silence in memory of County Executive Kevin Kamenetz and sends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Circuit Court Administrator Tim Sheridan reported that the Plaza Reconstruction Project is due to be completed by July 31, 2018. The administrative staff MDEC kickoff is on June 8, 2018. Baltimore County is projected to go live with MDEC on February 19, 2019. There are nascent plans for training which will be disseminated as soon as more information is available. Maria Fields, District Court Chief Administrator reported that the District Court MDEC staff kickoff is May 14, 2018. The “Plaza” in front of the Towson District Court (also known as the sidewalk) will be torn up and replaced on May 14, 2018. Circuit Court Clerk Julie Ensor advised that the preMDEC kickoff for her staff is on May 23, 2018. She also reported that by the end of July or early August, every computer in the Clerk’s office will be replaced. New emails and domain names will be utilized. The Honorable Judge Dorothy Williams stated that the District Court is wired and ready for the MDEC launch. Magistrate Wendy Schenker told the Committee that starting July 1, 2018 Magistrate James Farmer will be working full-time. Mondays and Fridays will be the new days for Contempt and Modifications of Child Support. The Family Recovery Support Program will be held on Tuesday afternoons. Magistrate Gilbert and Magistrate Schenker will be reviewing Family Law motions. The Honorable Judge William Evans, on behalf of the Orphan’s Court, proudly reported that the Orphan’s Court is not having any MDEC rollout. Don Zaremba reported on behalf of the Public Defender’s Office that there is a study to determine the impact of body cameras on the Judicial System, and he excused himself from the meeting early to meet with representatives of the Study Committee. THE ADVOCATE
On behalf of the Criminal Bar, Leonard Shapiro requested tolerance from the Court with the MDEC rollout. This generated a robust discussion among the Committee. Judge Wilson advised that the aspiration of the Judiciary was to be “kinder and gentler” with regard to MDEC issues. She said that it was Judge Morrisey’s intent that lawyers will not be punished for MDEC issues. For example, if a lawyer makes a timely filing but the document is returned for some type of deficiency, the aspirational goal is that if the filing itself is timely, it will be counted even if deficient for another reason as long as the deficiency is cured. Caution: There is no official promulgation solidifying this so exercise great care with your MDEC filings. Practice tip: Make sure every document you submit via MDEC is sent as a separate PDF. Circuit Court Clerk Julie Ensor promised to help any attorney, or pro se litigant, walk through the MDEC process. Hopefully other counties will be as accommodating. Amy Feldman advised that the Family Law Joint Program with our surrounding counties was a sellout. On Thursday, May 17 there will be a Family Law legislative update. Harry Chase reported on behalf of Baltimore City. He told us that Judge Kershaw is leaving the Juvenile Court and will be replaced by Judge Emanuel Brown. Judge Hargadon is retiring. The Portrait Committee has raised around $10,000.00 but needs a lot more money. Debra Schubert, on behalf of the Harford County Bar, told us that Harford County is facing the first contested judicial election since 1954. Craig Borchers invited everyone to the Young Lawyer’s happy hour at The Point, formerly The Crease on May 17, 2018. Tyler Nowicki submitted a report indicating that Law Day was a big success, but that he is hoping for more participation from the Bar next year. The next meeting of the Bench Bar Committee is scheduled for June 14, 2018.
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TECHONOLOGY AT USE IN FAMILY LAW MATTERS by William F. Alcarese, Jr. Technology is constantly evolving and its developments have applications for use by both the parties and attorneys in family law matters involving children. Communication is a vital part of co-parenting. Along those lines, the exchange of relevant and important information pertaining to the child(ren) is paramount. Sometimes though, parents cannot effectively communicate leading to stressful and contentious situations. The following tools and applications reduce or eliminate these encounters, yet afford each parent access to the child(ren)’s information.
Our Family Wizard (https:// www.ourfamilywizard.com/) is an online and mobile communication tool designed to make co-parenting easier and less stressful. The program has a centralized calendar that allows the parties to set the access, holiday and vacation schedules and share appointments and activities for the other to see. Written communications are exchanged directly through the program with confirmations of messages sent and viewed. You can upload documents or files to share with the other party such as medical records, report cards, photographs, etc. Parties are able to track expenses for reimbursement, and payments can be electronically processed through the program. Everything is documented, so there is proof and accountability.
Our Family Wizard is becoming more popular in all family law cases, not just the acrimonious ones. Parties are receptive to this concept to engage the other about matters pertaining to the child(ren). In fact, some Judges have ordered parties to register and use Our Family Wizard as a more effective means of transmitting information between the parties. There is a fee to use Our Family Wizard. A free option for a centralized calendar is the popuTHE ADVOCATE
lar Google Calendar. It is wise for parties to develop and use a shared calendar because it easily informs everyone what is happening regarding all aspects of the child(ren)’s schedule.
Schools and health care providers implement portals that can be accessed by the parents to receive general and specific information related to the child(ren). In family law cases, regardless of the custodial situation, each parent should have equal access to the child’s educational and medical information through the respective portal.
Sports Illustrated developed a mobile app to share information related to the child(ren)’s sporting activity. By accessing the app, a parent can view the practice and game schedule, team roster and other information and receive communications from coaches or other parents. Other extra-curricular activities may communicate information via e-mail or another platform. These portals, apps and means of communication are constructive ways for each parent to have equal access to relevant information without burdening one parent with the obligation to share such information.
For attorneys, file hosting, file sharing and cloud storage services such as Dropbox and ShareFile are becoming increasingly popular. These services offer many useful purposes and are extremely effective for storing and exchanging documents, especially voluminous discovery document production, efficiently and securely with the client and/or opposing counsel without clogging up an e-mail inbox. Moreover, the files are accessible and may be shared anytime and anywhere with your device, i.e. computer, tablet or smartphone.
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TECHONOLOGY AT USE IN FAMILY LAW MATTERS
Signature Sponsors
by William F. Alcarese, Jr. E-discovery in family law cases is also becoming more common. Clients have a duty to preserve and not destroy any electronically stored information (“ESI�). Third party vendors can be engaged to extract and preserve ESI from computer hard drives, smartphones, tablets, social media accounts, computer programs, websites and cloud storage. Additionally, there are tips and software applications/ tools which may allow a novice to download and archive some forms of ESI, such as text messages or a Facebook account. Although, capturing the ESI is one task; having it in a usable format is a whole other task. A compilation of pages and pages of text messages may be sufficient to exchange in discovery; however, at trial, there may be foundation and authenticity issues precluding its admissibility. Therefore, attorneys need to be cognizant of how the ESI is obtained and whether they can properly admit the ESI at trial.
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 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 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 Rachel Ruocco (410) 337-9100 or rruocco@bcba,org).
New technologies are constantly being developed, seemingly faster than before. Ideally, these new technologies will continue to enhance the practice of family law for the parties and attorneys.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not an endorsement for any prod-
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THEY’VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO BE THE NEXT SOFT SIDE MODEL Correction: In the May, 2018 issue of The Advocate, it was reported that Joey Ensor came in 3rd place with 283 votes. Joey actually came in 4th place with 135 votes (still very respectable!). The real 3rd place winner with 283 votes was Gracie Farmer, daughter of Magistrate James Farmer and Donna Farmer.
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DISTRICT COURT JUDGES’ DISCUSSION ON CIVILITY AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY by Suzanne K. Farace The Professionalism Committee and the Young Lawyers Committees held a joint program on April 18, 2018 at the Towson Tavern, entitled "District Court Judges' Discussion on Civility and Professional Responsibility". Many lawyers, young and not so young, turned out to hear the Honorable Sally C. Chester and the Honorable Marsha L. Russell, both of the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County, speak.
4. Candor to the Tribunal. If you are relying on a case and citing that case to the Court, make sure you have read the whole thing, not just the headnotes. The Judges notice and remember when a lawyer miscites a case to them, even unintentionally. If a Judge agrees to bind himself or herself with respect to the disposition of a criminal case, it is extremely critical that the lawyers tell the Judge ALL of the relevant facts and leave nothing out.
Professionalism Chair Craig P. Ward and Young Lawyers Committee Chair Craig R. Borchers gave everyone a warm welcome, thanked the sponsors, and introduced the Judges.
5. Trial Practice. Be realistic with your time estimates. Make sure you have interviewed and talked with your client and your witnesses BEFORE you put them on the stand. In a case where there has been written discovery, make sure your client is familiar with their Answers to Interrogatories before they testify. According to Judge Russell, it helps the Judges if you "paint the picture" for them about your case. Judge Chester said that the opening statement gives the Judges a "road map" for understanding what you are trying to show in your case. Judge Russell indicated that she appreciates photographs that depict, for example, the scene of an accident, rather than just testimony about what happened.
Judge Chester advised the group that she has been on the District Court Bench for 14 years, and Judge Russell was appointed to the District Court Bench in 2010. Both Judges shared their insights as to professionalism and civility issues concerning the lawyers who have appeared before them. Some of the issues discussed by the Judges included: 1. They do not want to see lawyers treating other lawyers badly in front of them. The best practice is to win your case, but not do it at the expense of embarrassing the other lawyer. If you lose your case, you can still win the respect of the Court by your actions and your courtesy and restraint. The Judges know which lawyers are being jerks without it having to be pointed out to them. 2. Therefore, try to have a good working relationship with your opposing counsel. If you get a reasonable request, such as a request for a postponement, and it does no harm to you or your client, you should agree to it. You never know when you may need such a courtesy in return. Being the decent person will come back to reward you 1,000 times over. 3. Do not be disrespectful to the Judges. This would seem obvious, but apparently it is not. Keep your voice modulated. If you get stymied or feel frustrated by a Judge's ruling then stop, take a beat, and then try to address the Court in a different way. According to Judge Chester, the phrase "with all due respect" should be avoided entirely as it is the equivalent of saying "you are an idiot". THE ADVOCATE
The Judges also mentioned some procedural matters pertaining to the District Court. All specially set cases (cases that will take two or more hours to try) are scheduled in Towson. After June, all specially set cases will be scheduled for a settlement conference before Judge Philip Tirabassi. The District Court has mediators available a couple of days a week in some of the courtrooms who can assist in resolving civil matters. The Professionalism and Young Lawyers' Committees thanked Judges Chester and Russell for their time and for sharing their insights as to how members of the Bar can be more civil and professional with each other and with the Court. 1. The food and drink for the event was made possible by the generous sponsorship of Lisa Hapney with the ONE Group of Keller Williams Excellence and one of BCBA's Signature Sponsors, Mark Norris of Chesapeake Valuation Advisors.
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2018 GOLF TOURNAMENT by David F. Luby During a year of inconsistent and unpredictable weather, Mother Nature blessed all those in attendance at this year’s annual golf tournament at Rocky Point Golf Course. With near-perfect golf weather, members of the Baltimore County Bar Association, along with honored guests and sponsors, partook in the greatest game ever played. Proceeds went to the BCBA’s chosen charity, Show Your Soft Side. No animals were harmed during the round of golf, but there were plenty of birdies and eagles to be had as the course played fair and true. Winners were crowned, food was eaten and prizes were awarded. Congratulations to Jon Herbst, Chair of the Entertainment Committee, for putting on what is dubbed the “Super Bowl” of events for the committee. FIRST PLACE Larry Yalich, Brian Bennett, Grant Posner, Scott Rotter
And of course: BEST DRESSED FOURSOME: “Luck O’ The Irish” Rob Erdman, Becky Fleming, Dave Luby, Michael Siri There was also a “Beat the Pro/Buy the Birdie” on the Par 3, 11th Hole that again boasted nearly 100% participation and raised an additional funds for the benefit of Show Your Soft Side! Atlantic Catering provided a box lunch before the round and a delicious Bull Roast style dinner. The beverage cart this year was ironically sponsored by Smart Start and the beer and water flowed freely as the day progressed (safely and responsibly, of course). Thank you to all of our sponsors:
SECOND PLACE Bruce Laird, Bob McMeekin, Rick Schmidt, Phil Kelly
Signature Sponsor:
MOST HONEST SCORE (74) Mariela D’Alessio, Jason Vettori, Shaun Weber, Amy Grossi
Mark W. Norris, CPA/ABV, CVA, MAFF, ASA
LONGEST DRIVE, Hole #18 (Sponsored by Gore Brothers) WINNERS: Bob McMeekin & Leanne Schrecengost CLOSEST TO THE PIN (Sponsored by ASAP, Betty, Charlie & Danielle Winchester)
Chesapeake Valuation Advisors
410-746-8722 mnorris@chesapeakevaluation.com www.chesapeakevaluation.com Designated Sponsors: Closest to the Pin Contest Advantage Sentencing Alternative Programs, Inc.
#4 – Michael Ward, #7 – Mark Flanigan, #14 – Brian Bennett
Charlie, Betty & Danielle Winchester
50/50 Raffle, $400 Total, $200 to the winner
asap25west@aol.com
Leanne Schrecengost -who graciously donated her winnings back to Show Your Soft Side!
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410-832-1717
Longest Drive Contest Gore Brothers, A Veritext Company
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2018 GOLF TOURNAMENT by David F. Luby Joseph Grabowski
410-207-2598
410-837-3027
www.mdtriallawyer.com
reporter@gorebrothers.com Howanski, Meadows & Erdman, LLC
Beverage Cart Sponsor
410-296-3630
Smart Start Maryland
www.hme-law.com
Amy Wisniewski Judicial Services Liaison
Multi-Specialty HealthCare
443-326-1960
Bruce Laird, Senior Marketing Executive
amy.wisniewski@smartstartinc.com
410-933-5678 blaird@multi-specialty.com
Tee Sponsors: Sitting Judges Campaign
The Kaifer Insurance Group
Vote to Retain Judges Deeley, Finifter, Jakubowski and Robinson
Mark A. Kaifer, Esquire
Authority: Baltimore County Sitting Judges Slate Committee, Eileen G. Thompson, Treasurer
mark@kaiferinsurance.com
Turnbull, Nicholson & Sanders, P.A. 410-339-4100 www.tnsfamilylaw.com Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, LLC 600 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 mdalessio@sgs-law.com Caves Valley Partnership Lee S. Seidman, CFO 443-872-0747 lseidman@cavesvalleypartners.com The Herbst Firm Jonathan M. Herbst, Esquire THE ADVOCATE
410-584-7610
Royston, Mueller, McLean & Reid, L.L.P. 410-823-1800 www.rmmr.com CafĂŠ Troia 410-337-0133 www.cafetroia.com Maury, Donnelly & Parr, Inc. 410-685-4625 www.mdpins.com Kollman & Saucier, P.A. Timonium, MD 21093 410-727-4300 Page 13
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MEMBERS NEWS MEMBERS ON THE MOVE
Kramon & Graham attorneys named 'Leaders in their Field' in 2018 Chambers USA
Laurie M. Wasserman, Esquire
Firm's Litigation practice receives top ranking in Maryland
502 Washington Ave., Suite 260 Towson, Maryland 21204 (410) 842-1070 www.wassermanlawoffice.com
Administrative Law Judge The Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) is seeking candidates for the position of Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Eligible candidates must be a lawyer in good standing for at least five years as of December 31, 2018, licensed to practice law in Maryland and possess excellent writing, legal research, computer and time management skills. The OAH is based in Hunt Valley and ALJs are required to travel throughout the State. Starting salary is $99,549. All applications must be completed online by June 25, 2018, through the State of Maryland Job Openings at www.jobaps.com/MD. The recruitment number is 18-005266-0001. Supplemental materials are to include five copies of: a resume, a writing sample no longer than ten pages and three professional references. In addition, one original Certificate of Good Standing from the Maryland Court of Appeals must be included. Supplemental materials are to be submitted as outlined in the online job announcement.
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Baltimore, MD (May 22, 2018) -- Kramon & Graham, a leading law firm providing litigation, real estate, and transactional services, announced today that BCBA members John Bourgeois and Geoffrey Genth, both principals with the firm, have been recognized for legal excellence and client service by the 2018 Chambers USA legal ranking guide. More than 35 percent of Kramon & Graham's principals are recognized in the directory. Kramon & Graham's Commercial Litigation practice holds its top tier ranking for the fourteenth consecutive year. Chambers USA is one of the most prestigious legal ranking guides in publication. Updated annually, the guide's thorough vetting process ranks attorneys based on technical legal skills, client service, astuteness, diligence, commitment, professional conduct, and other qualities. Chambers USA is published by Chambers & Partners. A description of the selection methodology can be found at http://www.chambersandpartners.com/ methodology.
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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
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Committee News ADR COMMITTEE
LRIS COMMITTEE
Planning Meeting, August 7, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room.
Planning Meeting, June 27, 4:30 pm, Grand Jury Room
ADVOCATE COMMITTEE
Please renew or consider joining the LRIS at this time. Application can be found on the website: LRIS Application. Contact Rae Wyatt at rwyatt@bcba.org or 410-337-9100 for more information.
Planning Meeting, July 5, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room BENCH/BAR COMMITTEE This committee (appointed by the BCBA Presidents) meets the second Thursday of each month, 8 a.m., in Judicial Conference Room 412. If there are issues to be brought to the attention of this committee please contact Chairperson Michael Paul Smith, 410-821-0070 or mpsmith@sgs-law.com.
The 2018-2019 LRIS Panel Registration and Renewal Packet is now available. Join now! Current panel members, do not forget to renew before the end of June.
CRIMINAL LAW COMMITTEE CLE COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, July 3, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE June 7, 2018, Golf Tournament, & Beginners’ Clinic, Rocky Point Golf Course. ESTATES & TRUSTS COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, June 28, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room FAMILY LAW COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, August 6, 4:30 pm, Grand Jury Room
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, July 30, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room
LAW DAY COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, August 23, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room THE ADVOCATE
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Committee News MEMORIAL COMMITTEE
PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE
Planning Meeting, July 25, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room
Planning Meeting, July 2, 4:30 pm, Grand Jury Room
Please notify Rachel Ruocco 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.
PUBLIC AWARENESS & SPEAKERS COMMITTEE AKA CIVICS & LAW ACADEMY
Those members who will be honored at next year’s service on November 15, 2018, at 3:30 p.m., include:
REAL PROPERTY COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, July 23, 4:30 pm, Grand Jury Room
W. Lee Thomas Henry J. Myerberg Ellen P. Rosenberg Judge Dana M. Levitz Lawrence Melfa JR Francomano, III Kevin Kamenetz Edward Pinder
SOLO & SMALL FIRM COMMITTEE Committee Planning Meeting will be held in July or August. STATE & LOCAL LAWS (SLLZ) COMMITTEE
If you know of any other BCBA Member who passed away (since August 15, 2017), please advise Rachel Ruocco immediately, so they can be included in the service. Thank you. The reception for family and friends to honor and remember loved ones will be held immediately following the service. Monetary contributions are greatly appreciated to support the Memorial Reception, and can be made payable to the BCBA, 100 County Courts Building, 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, MD 21204. Donors will be acknowledged on the printed program. NEGLIGENCE, INSURANCE & WORKERS’ COMP COMMITTEE Committee Planning Meeting will be held in July or August. PRO BONO COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, July 24, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room THE ADVOCATE
Planning Meeting, July 26, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room
Committee Planning Meeting will be held in July or August. TECHONOLGY COMMITTEE Planning Meeting, June 26, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room YOUNG LAWYERS COMMITTEE
Thirsty
Third Thursdays, Various establishments in Towson, 5 p.m. Come join young lawyers, judicial law clerks, and a special monthly guest to relax and network. June 21, 2018* *Attend the BCBA Stated Meeting at 4:30 p.m. in Ceremonial Courtroom No. 5, Old Courthouse, Towson, and receive a free drink ticket for the happy hour! Planning Meeting, August 30, 5:00 pm, Grand Jury Room
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Call for MLSC Award Nominations Nomination forms are now available for Maryland Legal Services Corporation's Annual Awards. In recognition of outstanding contributions by Maryland individuals and organizations that provide or support access to justice for low-income Marylanders, we encourage nominations for the following awards: The Arthur W. Machen, Jr. Award, given to an attorney (usually in private practice) who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to increasing access to justice and improving the civil legal services delivery system for low-income Marylanders The Benjamin L. Cardin Distinguished Service Award, given to an outstanding public interest lawyer whose career has been dedicated to providing, promoting or managing civil legal services to low-income Marylanders The Rising Star Award, given to an attorney who has practiced law for 10 years or less and has significantly contributed to expanding access to justice by serving the civil legal needs of low-income Marylanders or advancing the delivery of civil legal services The William L. Marbury Outstanding Advocate Award, given to a non-attorney who has demonstrated outstanding service representing the civil legal needs of low-income Marylanders or by expanding access to justice The Herbert S. Garten Public Citizen Award, given to an entity or organization that is not regularly engaged in the delivery of civil legal services to low-income Marylanders but has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to increase access to justice
NOMINATE NOW DEADLINE EXTENDED! Nominations must be received by June 30, 2018. Awards will be presented at a ceremony in December. More information, along with online nomination forms, printable nomination forms and a list of past winners, can be found at www.mlsc.org/awards. Questions? Contact us at 410-576-9494 or info@mlsc.org.
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BCBA Members are encouraged to support our Annual Signature Sponsors. When you need a service they offer, please contact the following, thank you.
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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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Running Club. Monthly runs will be held on the last Thursday of each month. August – May, 5:30 p.m., meet in Patriot Plaza. December-February, meet at 401 Washington Avenue, Lobby. We recommend that runners bring reflective gear, headlamps, etc. Please RSVP to Craig Borchers, craigborchers@hme-law.com, thanks.
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BALTIMORE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT LAW LIBRARY NEWS New Titles The law library staff added the following titles to the collection: Domestic Abuse, Child Custody, and Visitation: Winning In Family Court; Kleinman, Toby & Pollack, Daniel. KF 9320. K57 Elder Law and Later-Life Planning; Frolik, Lawrence. KF 390 .A4 .F76 Electronic Payment Systems Law and Emerging Technologies; Morse, Edward. KF 1030 .E4 .E424 A Handbook on Aviation Law; McKeegan, George & Ranieri, William. KF 1290 .M3 New Micpels The library staff received the following new Micpels which are located behind the reference desk: Current Trends and Creditor Rights in Consumer Debt Collection Electronically Stored Information (ESI) – What Lawyers Need To Know Health Care Decision Making Planning for People with Disabilities Cambridge Univ. Press Journals now available via Hein Online American Journal of International Law American Society of International Law Proceedings Asian Journal of International Law Asian Journal of Law and Society Business and Human Rights Journal Cambridge Law Journal Canadian Journal of Law and Jurisprudence Canadian Journal of Law and Society Canadian Yearbook of International Law China Quarterly European Journal of Risk Regulation Health Economics Policy and Law International and Comparative Law Quarterly International Journal of Legal Information International Legal Materials Israel Law Review Journal of African Law Journal of Law and Religion Law and History Review THE ADVOCATE
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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
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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
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The Baltimore County Bar Association
Presort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1262 Baltimore, MD
100 County Courts Building 401 Bosley Avenue Towson, MD 21204-4491 410-337-9103-Telephone 410-823-3418-Facsimile www.bcba.org
MEMBER ADVERTISEMENTS TOWSON. Furnished, office with windows available for lease. Includes use of conference room, reception area, copy, scan and fax machine and internet. Paralegal/ Administrative Assistant available. Possibility of referral work. Walk to both Towson courthouses. Contact Robert Jacobson at 410-583-8883, kjpaoffice@comcast.net. TOWSON. Office for rent in the heart of Towson. One block from the Circuit Court. Rent includes one parking space. Available in September 2018. Rent is negotiable. Call 410-494-1494 to schedule a tour. Ask for Dilip. TOWSON. Up to three furnished offices for rent one block from the Circuit Court for Baltimore County. Share use of conference room, reception area, kitchen and copy machine. Includes parking and all utilities. Call Cynthia at 410-3825910 for more information. LUTHERVILLE/TIMONIUM. Seeking reputable subtenant to share office suite in nice building in Lutherville/Timonium. Fully furnished partner’s office (2 available), includes internet, receptionist, use of conference room and free parking in a pleasant low key environment. If interested, please contact Randy Wase, 410-828-8500 or Randy@Waselaw.com. 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. TOWSON. Offices for rent in a charming and newly renovated 100-year-old building in the heart of Towson. Building offers a reception area, kitchenette, conference room, storage and free parking. Office sizes vary. Electric included and receptionist available upon request. Contact Anna at 410-494-4921 or awalsh@awalshlegal.com. DUNDALK. DUNDALK. Awesome space available. 5 office suites available in the Holabird Building on Holabird Avenue. Conference room, lots of free street parking and receptionist. Contact Randolph Rice at 410-288-2900 or rr@ricelawmd.com for more information. For more information visit: https://ricelawmd.com/about/office-space/ PIKESVILLE or OWINGS MILLS. Office space share available. Minimum usage. Contact Gerald Zimlin, 410-2920509. 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.
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