A P u b l i c a t i o n f r o m t h e M a r y l a n d J u d i c i a r y JusticeJustice MattersMatters

Vol. 2, Issue 4 Spring 1999 Two New Court Initiatives Provide Inside Training and Education for Employees

New Salary Plan 2 Clerks and Managers

Legislative Highlights 2 Participate in Prestigious Training Program Employee Recognition 3

News from the Bench 4 In April, 39 circuit court, District Court, and AOC employees completed the first of five Bar Association Event 5 courses given by the Institute of Court Man- agement (ICM) for certification in the Court Court Profile 6 Executive Development Program (CEDP). The course, “Management of Human Re- Juvenile Court 7 sources,” was taught by Gilbert Skinner of the Criminal Justice Management Institute Judiciary Looks to Future 8 and Michigan State University professor The- odore Curry (pictured). Congratulations 8 The CEDP is a four-phase program developed Judicial Conference 9 by ICM to improve court operations through training. The CEDP, the only program of its photo by Maria Smiroldo Ex Parte Communications 10 kind in the country, provides comprehensive CEDP earn the designation of Fellow of the Institute Employee News 11 instruction in the technical, interpersonal, for Court Management. The program culminates in a and conceptual skills needed by court man- graduation ceremony at the U.S. Supreme Court in agers. Those that complete the four phases of Washington, D.C. (continued on p. 10) Judiciary Sends its Employees Back to School The Judiciary Training Chief Judge Bell has established a policy to reimburse Judiciary employees up to $500 annually for job- Center will host an Open House on June 28, related education. This exciting initiative, benefiting staff of the District, Circuit, and Appellate Clerks’ from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Offices, the AOC, Staff Attorney’s Office, and court-related agencies, is retroactive to January 1, 1999. It The Center is located at provides tuition assistance to eligible employees to further their formal education in alignment with an 2009D Commerce Park employee’s current or anticipated position. Drive (across from the Annapolis mall). Everyone agrees this is a win-win situation for employees and the Judiciary. According to AOC Human For more information, Resources Director Sharon Matthews, “The Judiciary is committed to giving employees the opportunity please call to participate in a structured, continuous professional development program. By acquiring new skills, (410)946-4925. knowledge and abilities, employees will be able to successfully respond to the challenges confronting the Come tour our beautiful Judiciary. Everyone benefits.” new facility. District Court Human Resources Director Carolyn Morris concurs. “The Judiciary’s commitment to es- tablishing opportunities for career enhancement will create a culture of quality that will promote excel- (continued on p. 9) Page 2

New Employee Salary Plan Unveiled The Judiciary has developed an independent pay plan for implementation effective July 1, 1999. The Judiciary’s pay plan consists of three salary structures with 15 steps each: ❖ Editorial Board ❖ Judge William O. Carr, Chairman, Harford County ❖ a standard structure with grades J01 to J18 Circuit Court (for employees formerly in State grades 5 through 22); Judge William H. Adkins, III ❖ Talbot County District Court a technical structure with grades T01 to T19 (for employees in information technology); Judge Ralph M. Burnett Garrett County District Court ❖ a senior management structure with grades S01 to S1 Judge Steven G. Chappelle (for employees formerly in State ES grades). Charles County Circuit Court Judge Patricia M. Goldberg Montgomery County Information pertaining to the Judiciary’s new pay plan is being disseminated by the AOC and District Court District Court Human Resources Departments. Diana Kukk, Pres., Maryland Court Reporters Assoc. In addition, the General Assembly approved a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of $1,275.00 for Michael Miller, Director State Law Library fiscal year 2000 to be applied in two phases: Judge Albert W. Northrop Prince George’s County ❖ $638.00 on July 1, 1999 Orphans’ Court ❖ $637.00 on January 1, 2000 Patricia L. Platt, Chief Clerk District Court The Judiciary’s salary structures, effective July 1, 1999, include the phase one COLA. Each time the Judge William D. Quarles Baltimore City Circuit Court annual salary amounts are increased by a COLA, a new copy of the Judiciary’s salary structures will ❖ Sally W. Rankin be published. Court Information Officer Anne P. Stygles, Chief Clerk Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge Dennis M. Sweeney Highlights of the 1999 Legislative Session Howard County Circuit Court The legislative session addressed many issues of significance to the Judiciary. Here are some highlights. Staff If you would like to obtain the full text of legislative decisions, please contact the Court Information Mary Brighthaupt, Office at (410) 260-1488 or the State Law Library at (410) 260-1430. Desktop Publishing Eric DeLisle and Ron White, Photographers THE BUDGET—Despite warnings about possible cuts in capital and operating budgets from legisla- Maria Smiroldo, Editor tive leaders, the Judiciary’s budget remained largely intact, with the District Court getting the two new judges requested for Frederick and Prince George’s Counties, (SB 303/HB 473). Also, extra money Reporter was found to expedite criminal case processing in Baltimore City, courtroom expenses and Public Judge M. Brooke Murdock Defender staff at Central Booking, and automation for the State’s Attorney’s office. The Juvenile Justice Matters is published Justice Center and South Baltimore and Montgomery County District Courts also were funded, but quarterly. We welcome your Prince George’s County courthouse renovations, (SB 755/HB 48), were not. comments or ideas. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE—(HB 233)–Courts & Judicial Proceedings–Peace Orders began as an ex- Contact us at: tension of the domestic violence process to dating and other non-familial relationships, but ended with Court Information Office reinstituting a peace bond concept by petition to the District Court for relief from enumerated acts, Robert C. Murphy Courts including harassment, malicious destruction of property, stalking, and trespass. of Appeal Building CINA—The Foster Care Court Improvement Implementation Committee’s rewrite of the CINA stat- 361 Rowe Boulevard Annapolis, Maryland 21401 utes, (SB 474/HB 562), failed. Tel: 410-260-1488 COMPARATIVE NEGLIGENCE—The proposal to change Maryland’s controversial contributory fax: 410-974-5291 ❖ [email protected] negligence standard to comparative negligence, (HB 551), failed. Story by Elizabeth Veronis, Esq., Legal Counsel Page 3

Judiciary Honors Employees for Service It’s that time of year again. Across the Judiciary, employees were awarded with pins and accolades for their long-term service. Each jurisdic- tion celebrated in its own way, ranging from the AOC’s Starry Employee Awards Luncheon to office parties and restaurant outings. The following employees were especially honored on their anniversaries by length of service.

35 years Sondra R. Buckel Leslie G. Cockrell Rose M. Bowen Dena Payton Virginia Ford Mary M. Bickford Hon. Luke K. Burns, Jr. Edith E. Coleman Mary Brashewitz Diana L. Rhoades Linda Francischetti Robert C. Franke Gerard L. Caskey Helen Colley Bill Broussard Hon. Thurman H. Rhodes Laura K. Forrester I. Theodore Phoebus Laura E. Chadwick Diane K. Davis Charles Brown Colleen Rill Karen Gardner Cathy D. Cox Sharon K. Davis Pearl M. Burdynski Floretta Roberts Leslie E. Gilbert 30 years Pauline DeGrange Bessie M. Decker Bertha Byrd Mary H. Ross Saundra L. Grimes Carolyn A. Connelly Sandra Delano Debra Delker-Green Janice L. Carter Barbara Royal Betty L. Goodman Elsie S. Embert Judy Drake Anthony S. Dix, Jr. Loree Carter Linda J. Salazar Sandra F. Haines Brenda Eyler Myra Faulkner Alexis H. Duncan Rosie E. Combs Hon. James P. Salmon Malissa Harley Jacquline R. Fogg Maria Fields Barbara J. Fisack Terrie A. Connolly Hon. John W. Sause Margaret A. Harrington Marvin A. Hewlin Gladys Foster Kimberly J. Foxworth Catherine E. Cook Lashawn J. Sellman Gina M. Hartman Freyae D. Jones Stran J. Funk Barbara Gardner Shirley Craft Nancy Schultz Patricia A. Hinkle Glenda L. Price Mary D. Gendason Melany A. Gattus Tonya Davis Paul Shrader Nancy S. Hoffman Larry W. Shipley Joan G. Gray Melissa Gray Deana R. Deans Carolyn M. Simms JoAnn Hunter Louis M. Taylor Lorraine A. Hall Shirley A. Grizzel Joanne Depp Mary S. Sivic Sherise L. Hynson Marilyn L. Tokarski Jacquelyn Hinton Hon. Thomas C. Groton, III Theresa L. Derita Ann J. Smith Gwendolynn M. Irwin William J. Zellers Ruth A. Hodgson Diane S. Hartine Edward A. DeWaters, III Francina Smith Gayle J. Johnson Barbara L. Howell Dorsey L. Hile, Jr. Paris B. Dixon Mary Kay Smith Hon. Norman Johnson 25 years Gary N. Hyman William T. Hill Letitia D. Douglas Kimberly O. Snyder Hon. Martha G. Kavanaugh Lou A. Bane Francis M. Janczak, Jr. Sherry Hines Hon. James B. Dudley Valerie Spencer Moses Kelly Michael L. Baker Jacqueline Johnson Mary A. Hutchins Kimberle A. Early Cindy Spieth Yvonne Koontz Gwendolyn A. Bennett Ann Kelley Nilda Jackson Star Elam Christopher Stachlinski Katherine O. Krazinsky Joyce Brown Sandra King Marlene P. King Kelly E. Evans Melissa B. Steward Hon. Warren J. Krug Donna G. Burch Carolyn Lane Bonnie L. Kirby Darlene F. Faulkner Doris Sweeney Denise Lemke Patricia A. Caton Beverly J. Logan Barbara C. Klimm Hon. Vincent E. Ferretti, Jr. Carole Taylor Sharon L. Matthews Beverly J. Davis Walter Lynch Doris M. Kotchenreuther Dorisena Fields William Treger Jeanne M. McAllister Eleanor J. Duncan Rena E. McGee Hon. Gary G. Leasure Teresa Forgacs Terry Trent Kathy J. McCan Pamela J. Gordon Brenda A. Mills Terri J. Linton Susan P. Gerecht Tricia E. Thorpe Hon. John H. McDowell Diann C. Hamilton Eleanor A. Moen Yvonne McClure Nancy Goss Cheryl R. Timmons-Burke Cheryl McGlaughlin Dannette A. Hardy Matthew D. Norton, Jr. Patricia L. Mitchell Hon. Clayton Greene, Jr. Linda D. Turner Brenda G. Millette Lois L. Harward Lynne A. Powell Paula M. Moser Diane B. Greene Hon. Stephen M. Waldron Bonnie Morgan Patricia A. Henry Rebecca Quinlan Joanne K. Myers Roseann Greenwell Raymond M. Wallace Gina M. O’Leary Monica M. Jackson Kenneth D. Ridgeway, II Hon. Thomas E. Noel Debbie Grube Sandra Whitten Kathy Peeler Maureen A. Jones Janet D. Rippeon Patricia Owens Elizabeth C. Heimbach Peggy M. Willis George T. Peter Cheryl A. Lotz Gerri Robertson Norice Pinder Alfreda M. Henry William L. Youngblood Hon. Emory Plitt William J. Mathias Kathleen G. Rushton Deborah R. Plaugher James Himes Cathleen Price Shantel A. Oliver Stephen Sopel Janice A. Potts Ricky L. Holbrook 5 years Linda N. Randall Catherine Pearson Sharon Savoy Hon. C. Clarke Raley Brenda Holland Hon. Shiela Tillerson Adams George Reith Diane L. Ricketts David A. Schultz Patricia L. Ramsey Elmira M. Jackson Dolores M. Baltimore Judy Richards Barbara (Bobbie) Santoro Hon. D. William Simpson Hon. C. Clarke Raley Eleanor Jackson Sylvester L. Barnes Vernell Roberts Andrew J. Schultz, Jr. Dave A. Slide Patricia Reid Melissa Jennings Stanley D. Bell Robin Robertson Gertrude M. Shaw Kathy Stafford Hon. Mary Ellen Rinehardt Cynthia D. Johnson Diane Bessling Hon. Nelson W. Rupp, Jr. Denise D. Smith Nancy Stafford Hon. Edward D. E. Rollins, Jr. Cathy Jones Keith J. Blacker Melanie D. Samakow Gwendolyn E. Smith Joan A. Stallings Peggy Ryan Inez L. Jones Betsy L. Blough Hon. Nancy Shuger Susan E. Stetina John A. Stoltz Grace E. Simms Kathleen A. Jones Deborah L. Brock Karla Smith Hon. Raymond G. Thieme, Jr. Mazie M. Taylor Hon. Paul E. Smith Beverly M. Karmasek Carolyn Jean Caldwell Teresa Smithrick Dale E. Trott Susan A. Thau Lynn C. Sprouse John F. Kelly Raymond Campbell Constance E. Steele Mary C. Tuer Berneda Thomas Kim L. Wallace Julie Kline Cecil Chaney Lisa D. Steele Rose Veneziario Hon. William W. Wenner Susan A. Webb Mary K. LaMark Darryl S. Clay Deborah W. Steever Mary S. Walton Corinne (Sissy) Will Hon. Paul H. Weinstein Debra Lamer Sharon Coleman Doris L. Thomas Dennis J. Weaver Barbara J. Windsor Deborah M. Wells Dot Lanasa Joan L. Cooper Mildred Thomas Shirley A. Wilhelm Janet M. Wyvill Kimberly H. Werneke Josephine Mansinne Linda Davie Lucesita Torres Joan W. Williams Jewel Zarbos Hon. Cypert O. Whitfill Crystal L. Marsden Ralph S. Densmore Hon. William P. Turner Michael J. Zepp Susan Woodson Deena Martin Hon. D. Warren Donohue Julia L. Walther 15 years Frances Young-Pettis Hon. Larnzell Martin, Jr. Wanda Dorsey Dave Warnick 20 years Darlene Adkins Dawn Dougherty Cheryl Barrow Patricia J. Martin Robert Williams Patricia G. Allen 10 years Wanda D. Mason Mabel A. Dove Susan Williams Patricia A. Barton Felechia L. Black E. Margarete Arnold Gladys M. Dwiggins Patricia A. Bauer Tom McConnell Helga Wilson Jonay Bolton Debra A. Bailey Marilyn Mitchell Robert Edwards Wary F. Wheeler Pamela A. Beale Mark S. Bowen Beatrice Bartholomew Linda Etzold Stephanie Y. Beckett Sanita Moore Dolores A. Woerner Harold T. Burgess, Jr. Vondranette Baynard Theresa L. Mozzano Michelle A. Evans Hon. Alexander Wright Michael S. Bradin Carol A. Canzoneri Deborah Beville James Farrell Bruno Brown Lois E. Nelson Wanda Yingling Page 4 News from the Bench

Counseling Helps We congratulate the following judges on their ber. He entered politics in 1982 on the Baltimore Court Employees recent appointments: City Council, where he served until 1995. He head- Cope with Tragic ed the Democratic Central Committee for Baltimore Shooting BALTIMORE CITY City from 1978–82. Judge Murphy’s legal creden- Judge Wanda Heard joins the Baltimore City tials include his tenure since 1993 with the law of- On March 11, the words Circuit bench, filling the vacancy left by Judge fice of Murphy & Klavans, LLC. This 1976 graduate that every court employee Rombro’s retirement. Judge Heard was Special of the University of Baltimore School of Law served dreads were spoken at the Assistant to the Director of the Office for Weed as Assisant State’s Attorney for Baltimore City from Howard County Circuit and Seed, a Justice Department program which 1977–82, and then joined the firm of Peter G. An- Court; “Someone has been helps make high-crime areas safer. This 1982 gelos, where he spent 10 years. shot at the courthouse.” University of Maryland School of Law gradu- Around 2:30 p.m., a ate clerked for Judge Karwacki, and was Assis- BALTIMORE COUNTY defendant in a divorce tant State’s Attorney for Baltimore City from Baltimore County Circuit Court welcomes Kath- proceeding allegedly shot 1983–85, returning in 1988 as Division Chief leen G. Cox, who fills the vacancy created by the and killed his wife and for the Sex Offense Unit. She was Assistant retirement of Judge Alfred L. Brennan, Sr. Judge wounded her daughter, in U.S. Attorney for the Virgin Islands and Florida Cox, most recently a partner with Venable Baetjer the parking lot. Although from 1991–1997. Judge Heard has received and Howard, began her legal career from 1979 to prompt action by Sheriff’s many awards from the Justice Department, in- 1981 as law clerk to U.S. District Judge James R. cluding two commendations from Attorney Gen- Miller, Jr. She then was a federal public defender deputies prevented further eral Janet Reno. until becoming an associate with Cook, Howard, injuries and the defendant Baltimore City District Court welcomes Dele- Downes & Tracy (which later merged with Venable). is now incarcerated, the A 1979 graduate of the University of Notre Dame impact of those words have gate Timothy D. Murphy, who succeeds re- tired Judge Mary Ellen Rinehardt. Judge School of Law, Judge Cox chairs the Coe Board of had a lasting impact. Murphy was elected to the Maryland House of Review and is on the Executive Board of the Mary- Courthouse employees have Delegates in 1994, and re-elected last Novem- land Food Committee of the Lawyer’s Campaign experienced anxiety, Against Hunger. (continued on p. 12) sleeplessness, and concern over their safety. In response, the Howard Judge Rodowsky Awarded for Exemplary County Mental Health Authority has provided counseling for the staff. Efforts to Achieve Gender Equality These sessions were lead by Dr. Helen Lann, a psycholo- Ten years after being appointed to establish and di- rect the Select Committee on Gender Equality, Court gist. Thanks to this effort, of Appeals Judge Lawrence F. Rodowsky was hon- Howard County courthouse ored for his exemplary efforts towards achieving the employees have had the laudable goal of eliminating gender bias in the Mary- opportunity to discuss their land judicial system. The Maryland State Bar Asso- feelings and fears associat- ciation held an Anniversary Dinner Celebration in ed with this traumatic his honor on April 26 at the Baltimore Hyatt Hotel. event. For further informa- Pictured is Judge Rodowsky, being presented with a tion, contact John Shatto at commendation from the Governor’s Office by Pam- (410) 313-4851 ❖ ela White, Esq., Chair of the Select Committee. He Story by John Shatto, also received a Waterford crystal gavel from the Se- Howard County Court lect Committee, and a sweatshirt from the Women’s Administrator Bar Association. Also awarded for their work in help- ing to make gender equality a reality were retired Special Appeals Court Judge Rosalyn Bell, and Deb- orah Unitus, who has staffed the committee since its photo courtesy of Pamela White, Esq. inception. Page 5

Just what do judges wear under those robes? Judges Disrobe for Charity

photo courtesy of the Baltimore County Bar Association

On April 28, a group of disrobed jurists took center stage at Martin’s West, as part of the Baltimore County Bar Association’s “Dress to Impress” Charity Fashion Show. The program, which featured county judges modeling the latest Brooks Brothers fashions, benefited Lawyers for Literacy and Lawyers Campaign Against Hunger. The “models” included retired Circuit Judges Alfred L. Brennan, Sr., and A. Owen Hennegan; Circuit Judges J. Norris Byrnes, Kathleen G. Cox, Lawrence R. Daniels, John O. Hennegan, James T. Smith, John Grason Turnbull II and Alexander Wright; District Judges Darrell Rus- sell, Vicki Ballou Watts and Alexandra Williams; and Master Jacqueline Dawson. Circuit Judge Robert Cahill, Sr., and his wife Patti provided the fashion narrative. Nearly 200 judges, attorneys and friends attended the cocktail event, which not only netted nice contributions for some excellent causes, but also gave everyone some great sartorial tips on professional court attire. ❖ Terri Beck, Baltimore County Bar Association, contributed to this article

Parent education and mediation among topics discussed Family Services Coordinators Convene in Annapolis

Family Services Coordinators from around the state convened in service providers spoke to the coordinators about such programs Annapolis on Friday, March 5, for an AOC-sponsored confer- as parental education seminars, supervised visitation, mediation ence designed to assist them with developing and implementing and pro se assistance. Deputy State Court Administrator Frank services for families in their respective jurisdictions. Broccolina and Judy Moran, Family Division Coordinator for Baltimore City Circuit Court, facilitated a group discussion, gen- The conference agenda included presentations by University of erating short-term goals which the coordinators were charged with Baltimore School of Law Professor Barbara Babb and Judge Al- implementing by year-end. The coordinators will meet again in bert Matricciani, Jr. Chief Judge Robert M. Bell, and Judges September to discuss strategic planning for the coming year. ❖ Matricciani, Paul Weinstein, and Clayton Greene addressed the group at a pre-conference dinner Thursday evening. A panel of Story by Judy Moran Page 6

Court Profiles . . . Meet Sharon Matthews, Director of AOC Human Resources IT’S A MATCH! Beginning July 1, 1999, the From handling sticky interpersonal situations to ing managers and employees guidance. She believes State of Maryland is going dispensing guidance and advice to 1,600 + strongly that providing employees with complete to match your contribu- employees in accordance with applicable em- facts and accurate information often defuses poten- tions to your 457 and ployee laws and established tial problems. 401(k) supplemental retirement plans dollar for organizational policies, Her route to Human Resources dollar, up to a maximum of Sharon Matthews’ role as Di- was circuitous—after graduating $600 each fiscal year. To be rector of Human Resources from the University of Maryland eligible for the match, you for the Administrative Office must: with a B.A. in Psychology, she of the Courts (AOC) is var- worked as a neuro-psychology • be a State Employee; ied, vast, and ever-changing. technician at Children’s Nation- • be a member of the In addition to managing the al Medical Center in Washing- State Employees personnel needs of Mary- ton. She moved into human “Modified” Pension land’s judges and AOC em- System; and resources while at the Medical ployees, Ms. Matthews and Center, where she remained for • be enrolled and make her staff of 14 also provide contributions to one of several years. She eventually the supplemental re- service to the employees of earned an MBA from the Uni- tirement plans. the court-related agencies, ap- versity of Maryland, and after Contributions are payroll pellate courts and offices of stints with the Perpetual Savings deducted. The minimum the clerks of the Circuit Bank and as a private consult- amount for participation in Courts statewide. photo by Eric DeLisle ant, began working for Johns one of the supplemental The Office of Human Resources has four pri- Hopkins Hospital. In 1993, she joined the AOC as retirement plans is $5 per bi-weekly pay. If you mary units—Employment and Employee Personnel Manager, and in 1997, was appointed Di- contribute approxj. $25 per Relations, Training and Development, Compen- rector of Human Resources. biweekly pay, you will sation, Benefits and HRIS, and most important While away from the office, this Columbia resident receive the maximum to most staffers, Payroll. The office also man- match of $600. enjoys exercising, and is an avid reader. Ms. Mat- ages EEO efforts. thews also likes working with children, and teach- If you are not currently contributing to one of the Ms. Matthews feels that the most challenging es kindergartners for her church Sunday school. ❖ aspect of her job is employee relations and giv- supplemental retirement Judge Carr contributed to this story plans, there is no better time than now to enroll and make biweekly contributions. For more J information, contact udge Stops Crime in Progress PEBSCO, our plan Judges are respected for their wisdom, fair- ther her assailant nor the driver of the awaiting administrator, at 1-800- ness, and dedication. Prince George’s Coun- ❖ 473-2726. (Chris Hartway, car were charged. ty Circuit Judge C. Philip Nichols, Jr. has Ext. 73728, is assigned to As reported in the Prince George’s Journal the Judiciary, but anyone added another admirable attribute to the list— can assist you.) General heroism. One evening last March, as the literature is also available jurist drove through Laurel, he observed from Susan Raleigh in a young woman struggling in the grasp of a A Jurist and an Athlete AOC Human Resources, at 410-260-1278. man who dragged her toward an awaiting vehicle. We applaud Worcester County Circuit Judge Thomas For District Court, please Groton III for his outstanding finish in the second contact Debbie Vlna or Judge Nichols stopped his car and confront- annual Atlantic Coast Police Biathlon Championship. Alice Graham at 410-260- ed the woman’s assailant. He ordered the man 1200 He placed first in the 50+ division, and completed to release the woman, and called 911 from the cycle-run-cycle race llth overall. Our congratula- Story by Susan Raleigh his cell phone. According to police who ar- tions on a job well done! rived on the scene, the woman fled, and nei- Page 7

Foster Care Court Improvement Project New system for juvenile courts is “MAJIC”

A demonstration of MAJIC (Maryland Automated Judicial Information for Children) fascinated judg- es, masters, and court employees on March 31 as the Foster Care Court Improvement Project (FCCIP) Statistics/JIS Subcommittee showed off the wizardry of this new database, which will simplify the processing of Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) cases. This demonstration, presented by Vasudevan Software Inc. (VSi) at the Judiciary Training Center, drew interested spectators from throughout the state. So far, MAJIC is being used in two pilot sites, Carroll and Anne Arundel Counties, which are currently modifying the prototype. According to Larry Shipley, Clerk of the Court for Carroll County: “MAJIC is a much more comprehensive system than what we have right now. It will help the court in mak- ing decisions concerning our children and families.” This demonstration (the third of its kind) gave court personnel further opportunity to become familiar with MAJIC, and to suggest changes to the software. For example, participants identified forms and orders not already included in the database, which already contains routine documents for such issues as shelter care adjudication and adoption. MAJIC offers such features as case management; docket maintenance; preparation of court orders and master’s recommendations; and a scheduling system. Most important, it can also facilitate the “tracking” of a child through the system. MAJIC software was developed pursuant to a FCCIP recommendation to ensure reasonably accurate data collection within the court system, and to devise uniform terminology. Although the larger juris- dictions (Baltimore City, Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties), already use automated systems for their CINA cases, MAJIC is the first opportunity for most counties to do so. Once the system is fully installed, the FCCIP will request that each jurisdiction use similar terminology to promote accurate data collection and analysis. For more information about MAJIC, contact FCCIP Director Althea R. Stewart Jones, Esq. (410) 260- 1296, or Kathaleen Brault, Esq., MAJIC Manager, (410) 260-1272. ❖ Kathaleen Brault contributed to the story

“Double Sauced Crab Urchins” recipe takes the grand prize Law Librarian an Excellent Reference for Cooks Ms. Dee VanNest (pictured) won a $1,000 savings account at the Chevy Chase Bank and will have her “Double Sauced Crab Urchins” recipe featured at Phil- lips Harborplace Restaurant in June 1999. Three finalists selected from over 130 entrants competed on May 2 in Baltimore. The distinguished panel of judges included Shirley Phillips, Co-Founder of Phillips Seafood Restaurants; Maryland Governor William Donald Schaeffer, Hugh Newton Vice President of Chevy Chase Banks, and Bruce Stienber Se- nior Seafood Buyer of Giant Food, Inc. To view the full recipe (with avocado cream sauce and Thai dipping sauce, and presentation suggestions), visit www.phillipsfoods.com/html/crecipe.html or call Ms. VanNest at 410-260-1441. ❖ photo by Eric DeLisle Page 8

How should the courts allocate their resources? The Judiciary Looks to the Future With direction from statewide judicial committees, commissions and councils, Maryland is mov- Judge Harry ing forward with many initiatives, some of which could permanently affect how cases are pro- Cole, Maryland cessed and the Judiciary is administered, including Alternative Dispute Resolution, services to legal pioneer pro se and other litigants, foster care and technology. How should the Judiciary allocate finite and civil rights resources among these and other possible improvements and reforms? Chief Judge Robert Bell trailblazer, dies has asked Dr. Geoff Gallas of Aequitas, Inc., and formerly Vice President of the National Center at 78 for State Courts, to assist the Maryland Judiciary in determining future priorities. Retired Judge Harry Cole, On Friday, May 21 and Saturday, May 22, a representative group of judges, court administrators an inspiration to many as and clerks met with the Chief Judge and Gallas to: review findings from over 30 interviews on the first African-American to serve on Maryland’s the state of the Maryland Judiciary and how it can be improved; evaluate and prioritize possible Court of Appeals and the improvements and reforms; determine action steps with respect to the most promising initiatives; first elected to state senate, and consider the costs and benefits of a multi-year statewide strategic planning effort, and wheth- died February 14 of complications from er such an effort makes sense in Maryland. pneumonia, at age 78. This exercise should, at the very minimum, produce two or three promising statewide In 1954, this political reform initiatives. Following the May 21–22 meeting, a report will describe the promising in- ground-breaker won a hotly-contested senate seat itiatives including implementation steps and recommend whether or not Maryland is ready by a mere 37 votes, beating for statewide strategic planning and, if so, how to carry it out. The report will be made available a powerful Baltimore political machine. This to all interested parties. For more information about this process, contact Frank Broccolina at seemingly- impossible 410-260-1295. ❖ triumph paved the way for a generation of black politicians. In 1967, Judge Cole was appointed to the Congratulations to . . . City Municipal Court, and a year later, elevated to Bal- timore City’s Supreme Court of Appeals Chief Judge Robert M. Court of Special Appeals Judge Sally D. Adkins, Court (today’s Circuit Bell, who was a recipient of the 1999 Legal who has been named as the new Chair of the Judi- Court). He was named to Excellence Award for Advancement of Public cial Disabilities Committee. She replaces Court of the Court of Appeals in 1977. Service Responsibility, bestowed by the Mary- Special Appeals Judge Glenn Harrell, who land Bar Foundation at a special ceremony held stepped down as chair last November. In the legal realm, he is best March 23 at the State House. Court of Ap- remembered as a defender Montgomery County Circuit Judge Ann Har- of constitutional rights. peals Judge Lawrence F. Rodowsky was also rington, who was appointed Chair of the Select Among his key judicial honored by the Bar Foundation, receiving this Committee on Gender Equality. ❖ accomplishments was year’s Legal Excellence Award for the Ad- authoring the unanimous vancement of Professional Competence. opinion upholding the state’s Court of Appeals Judge Alan M. Wilner, right to fund abortions for Truth Is Stranger who received the University of Maryland’s poor women. Personally, he than Fiction School of Law’s Alumni Association’s Distin- will not only be remembered Do you have any humorous, by history, but by all to guished Graduate Award. This award honors quirky, or downright bizarre court- whom he was a mentor, an an alumnus who “has achieved prominence house tales to share? We’d love to hear inspiration, and a friend. He through professional excellence and service to is survived by his wife of 41 the Maryland community.” them— and perhaps print them in an years, three daughters, a upcoming edition of Justice Matters. Court of Appeals Judge Irma Raker was the sister and two grandchildren. Please send them our way—either by recipient of the Girl Scouts of Central Mary- fax at (410) 974-5291, or by e-mail land’s 1999 Distinguished Women’s Award for to Maria Smiroldo. her exemplary career success and demonstrat- ed leadership as a woman of today. Page 9

Eric DeLisle’s Music Scores Big

Some of you may know Eric DeLisle as media developer ex- He registered some of his compositions with a publishing traordinaire, and we have all been wowed by his innovative Pow- house, which signed him to a five-year contract. “Nothing came erpoint, video, and CD-ROM productions. But few know of his of it,” he said—until now. “Interesting thing is—the piece they secret life as a musical composer—one whose work has even aired, was from when I was 21 or 22 years old. Over the years, been featured on national television. I’ve built up a digital catalogue of my music—which has Eric’s 15 minutes of fame came in the form of 20 seconds of his improved tremendously since then,” Eric said. Not surprisingly, original music, played during a guest introduction on the “Maury receiving his first legitimate royalty checks have given him a Povitch” show last May. Not an inveterate talk show watcher, he “renewed interest” in marketing his compositions. We wish him never would have known of this, except for the $391 royalty check all the best! he received in January. Since then, Eric’s been greeted with an occasional monetary surprise in his mailbox. He noted that he was thrilled to see a check for $625 recently—until he realized it was actually for six dollars and twenty-five cents. He’s decided to frame, rather than cash, this one. Eric’s involvement with music started in grade school, “playing every instrument under the sun.” He progressed to playing in rock and pop bands, and culminated in composing “bed music”, which is used as background in movie soundtracks, TV shows, and com- mercials, in his home studio.

Maryland Judicial Conference photo by Kelli Young and Eric DeLisle to Meet at Hunt Valley Back to School The Maryland Judicial Conference will conduct its annual busi- (cont. from p. 1) ness meeting and educational program at the Baltimore Marriott Hunt Valley Inn on June 17-18, 1999. The conference will begin with the business meeting on Thursday morning followed by a lence in performance, job enrichment, personal development, presentation by Judge John F. McAuliffe on The Findings of and greater productivity and improved morale,” she said. Report by the Maryland Commission on Criminal Sentencing The new tuition benefit comes courtesy of the Judiciary Profes- Policy. sional Development Committee, comprised of court clerks from The afternoon sessions will be presented by Judge Charles both the District and Circuit Courts, who had been working E. Moylan, Jr. and Judge Joseph F. Murphy Jr., who will cover on separate development committees to develop training and tu- special topics and recent developments in the law regarding auto- ition reimbursement programs for themselves. The two groups mobile stops, searches, seizures and arrests, including recent Su- merged to form the Judiciary Professional Development Com- preme Court cases. On Friday, alternative dispute resolution issues, mittee, and together, under the direction of Frank Broccolina and practices, and special topics will be addressed by experienced Patti Platt, they put together a Judiciary-wide plan for profes- practitioners at the plenary sessions and workshops. ❖ sional education for District and Circuit Court clerks, culminat- Story by Fred Williams ing in the CEDP presentation. During their discussions, the committee also addressed the lack of professional development opportunities for all judicial employ- NEW NAME . . . SAME SERVICES ees, which they agreed was contrary to the Judiciary’s mission of Green Spring Health Services has changed its name to Ma- fostering a culture of excellence. The committee therefore pro- gellan Behavioral Health, but the services will remain the posed a court-wide education policy to Chief Judge Bell, who same. So, if you are enrolled in the State of Maryland PPO or wholeheartedly supported, and implemented, the measure. POS Health Plans, your same mental health benefits will be provided by Magellan. Magellan Health Services can be For further information about this benefit, please contact your reached by using the same phone number as for Green Spring supervisor or Human Resources Office. ❖ Health Services at 1-800-720-7931. ❖ Page 10

Ex Parte Communication Complaints on the Rise A Growing Courtroom Problem (Ed. Note—Employees who work closely with judges should These canons, when read together, cause many be aware of ex parte issues for their judges when handling litigants to believe that any communication with New their phone calls and correspondence.) a judge by their opposition is automatically a vi- Since 1995, the Commission on Judicial Disabil- olation of the canons, resulting in many com- Resources ities has received over 100 written complaints per plaints where the judge’s conduct was actually year regarding the conduct of Maryland judges. innocent and unrelated to the litigation before the The Court Information Besides formal grievances, the Commission also court. Office has three new receives many informal complaints concerning the publications available to Recent Commission correspondence indicates Appellate, Circuit, District and Orphans’ Court assist judges in managing that Maryland judges should be careful to avoid judges over which it has jurisdiction. the often-challenging improper ex parte communication, as well as the situations presented by the These complaints frequently appearance of engaging in such media. Please call (410) concern ex parte communica- communication. 260-1488 to obtain or 260-1488 to obtain or tion, and are often from liti- One remedy is for judges to in- borrow copies. You can “Ex parte - (Lat.) of the one gants calling after a court form parties in cases before also check with the State appearance to report conduct part . . . implies an exami- them that the court does not en- Law Library at 410-260- they felt was ex parte. gage in such communication 1430. nation in the presence of In the past two years, the and shall not participate if it is Managing the High-Profile Commission has even re- one of the parties and the initiated by a party. This can Case : A Practical Blueprint Case : A Practical Blueprint ceived complaints about be done through in-court —This manual, produced judges engaging in ex parte absence of the other.” announcements, notice to by the Court Information communication when the com- parties, and discussions with Office, offers a compilation —Bouvier’s Law Dictionary munication was specifically counsel. of checklists, tips, and permitted by statute. The pub- sample orders to help Also, a judge may respond to at- navigate the media aspects lic seems aware of Maryland tempts to engage in ex parte of a notorious case. Rule 16-813, Canon 3(5), which states, communication by pointing out to all parties The Media Studies Journal A judge should accord to every person who is legally present that communication from one party to the — Generously provided to interested in proceedings, or the person’s lawyer, full court is unacceptable. Finally, when a permitted us by the Freedom Forum, right to be heard according to law, and, except as au- ex parte hearing is heard, the court should make this guide includes infor- thorized by law, neither initiate nor consider ex parte extraordinary efforts to explain to the parties what or other communications concerning a pending or im- mative perspectives on occurred at the hearing, and why it was conduct- mative perspectives on pending proceeding. covering the courts, ed ex parte. ❖ ranging from “Lessons Maryland Rule 16-813, Canon 1 provides that Story by Steven P. Lemmey, from the Timothy McVeigh “ . . . A judge should observe high standards of Investigative Counsel to the Trial” to “What Gets on conduct so that the integrity and independence of Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities the Networks?” the judiciary may be preserved.” AVAILABLE ON LOAN —Managing Notorious Trials, from the National Center for State Courts. Court Management Training (cont. from p. 1) This is an excellent re- source for all facets of According to District Court Chief Clerk Patti Platt: education and training are necessary to prepare managing high-profile “This program provides a rare opportunity for cir- our court personnel for the twenty-first century, cases. cuit and District Court managers to discuss im- and I fully endorse presenting this excellent pro- ALSO ON LOAN—When portant issues which affect both courts jointly, and gram for our clerks.” Judges Speak Up, audio provides for the exchange of ideas between the visual and written materi- two sectors. Training opportunities like this one The second CEDP course, “Fundamental Issues als which feature interac- will strengthen the skills of our court management of Caseflow Management,” is scheduled for Sep- tive scenarios to help team statewide.” tember 1999. ❖ prepare judges for tough Story by Anne P. Stygles situations involving the In bringing the CEDP curriculum to Maryland, and Richard A. Parker press. ❖ Chief Judge Bell stated, “I believe strongly that Page 11

EMPLOYEES ON THE MOVE

ANNAPOLIS Baltimore County St. Mary’s County Charles County Melissa Foehrkolb, Kimberly Michelle Schmidt, Kathryn Gomes Administrative Office Goolsbee, Mary Isner, Jeffery Tamara Weasenforth of the Courts Johnson, Sheri Riggs, Lora Riz- Dorchester County Somerset County Nancy Kline, Anne Lapier, zuto. Congratulations on your Barbara Jarrell, Angela Brown promotion, Dawn Kohler. Patricia Bozman, John King Gary S. W. Pinsky, Ronald Frederick County White, Robert Bruchalski, Calvert County Washington County Lauren Griffith, Hugh Reinhart. Tiffany Ferrell Danielle Merritt Angela Campbell, Congratulations on your promo- Harford County tions, Suzann Parry, Ricardo April Corley, Jessica Weaver Charles County Katina Blake Farraj-Ruiz, and James Steiner. Jacquelynn Joudrey Worcester County Court of Appeals Mary Beth Williams Howard County Carroll County Best wishes for your retire- Carol Holt, Melissa Thompkins. ments, John Lewis and Congratulations on your Best wishes on your retirement, DISTRICT COURT Lawrence Moore. promotions, Bessie Decker William Mathias. and Joanne Drewry. Best wishes Dorchester County Annapolis Headquarters Montgomery County on your retirements, Frances Lisa I. Ritter. Best wishes on Best wishes on your retire- James Arnold, Danny Kessell, Wooten and Robert Francke. your retirement, Carol Hart. ments, Jane Brown and Mary Andy Blasher, Gary Furr, State Law Library Murphy. Anne Arundel County Tonya Cain, Eugene Herrera, Elizabeth Camuti-DiVincenti, Qiong-Fang She. Best wishes Frederick County LaToya Barnes, Jennifer Davis, Michael Gretz, Trudy Sharer, on your retirement, Shirley Rit- Khalima Jacobs, Kenneth Koell- Robin Rhoderick, Terra Shaw. Rajahakshmi Thaivalappil, tenhouse. ner, Sr., Michael Snukis. Con- Congratulations on your pro- Patricia Brown, Cheryl Hector, gratulations on your promotion, motion, Brenda Main. Randall Jupiter, Mike Main, Cecil Chaney. CIRCUIT COURTS Danielle Hawks, Celeste Harford County Baltimore City Wright, Florence Rounds, Rich- Allegany County Kathleen Jones ard Wawrzeniak, Shani Lindsay, Waverly Harris, Denise Howard, Patricia Coyle Tanya Stemple, Paula Bowie, Karen Watkins, Yvonne West, Howard County Michelle Hall. Congratulations Bernard Johnson, Jean Holly, Anne Arundel County William T. Carback, Jr. on your promotions, Christine Harry McDonald, Athenia Kirk, Leslie Croney, Michelle Klein, Collins, J. Diane James, and Rose Hendler, Rosemary Jeffer- Catherine Parnis, Ann Roberts, Montgomery County Mari Johnson-Lee. Claudia Thomas, Suzan Kevin Abram, Laura Blocklin, son, Takisha Jones, Dionne Thomas, Monet Wheatley. Con- Heather Dixon, Robert Gunter, Mack, Erica Roles, Daniel Prince George’s County gratulations on your promotion, Tsehay Kifle, Christine Lutale, Calhoun, Talisa Lewis, Lisa Sarah Sherman, Tammy Bopst, Linda Grimm. Best wishes on Maria Marroquin, Sarah Nel- West. Congratulations on your Bonnie Dubritton, Karen your retirement, Beverly Logan. son, Jessie Rinehart, Stephanie promotion, Doris Gillis. Moore. Congratulations on your Williams, Sheryl Gibson, Victor Baltimore County promotion, Tammy Doswell. Baltimore City Martinez. Congratulations Alphondus Crowder, Mary on your promotions, Linda Dawn Williams, Michael Tum- Queen Anne’s County Green, Patricia Harrell, Daly, Eric Haegele, Jr., Kelly inello, Latasha Davis. Congratu- Joseph Barrett Antoinetta Harrison, Mackie, Kendall Free. lations on your promotion, Anissa Hunter, Brenda Jones, Best wishes on your retirement, Sheila Alverson. Best wishes on Talbot County Mary Lee, Jacqueline Logan, Eleanor Duncan. your retirement, Cora Weaver. Best wishes on your retirement, Gina McCall, Melissa McClung, Caroline County Suzanne Healy. Keopeia Merill, Robin Platt, Prince George’s County Best wishes on your retirement, Betsy Roane, Gladys Dungee. Teresa Abrams, Theresa Capers, Washington County James B. Horsey. Congratulations on your promo- Debra Clark, Angella Jackson, Bill Blair tions, Lydia Edwards, Jamillah Kimberly Lee, Kameko Plater, Carroll County Samuels, Donna Young, Paulette Stacey Ray-Seldon, Cindy Wicomico County Enid Levy Young, and Kathleen Puckett. Whittington. Best wishes on Catherine Jones Best wishes on your retirement, your retirement, Marjorie Bae- Cecil County Joann Alluisi. schlin. (Please let us know if we missed Joseph Ulatowski, your name and we’ll include it Paul Williams in the next edition. -- Ed) Spring 1999 Page 12 CalendarCalendar ofof EventsEvents

JUNE * Humanities, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 8 Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission’s * Substantive Issues, Problems, and Sanctions Regional Forum in Central Maryland in Domestic Violence Cases, 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 9 Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission’s 27 New Circuit Court Law Clerk Orientation Regional Forum in Southern Maryland 17–18 Judicial Conference, Baltimore Marriott OCTOBER Hunt Valley Inn 3–6 Mid-Atlantic Association for Court Management’s JULY Annual Conference, Ocean City 4-9 National Association for Court Management’s 21 * Bail Bonds, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Annual Conference, San Jose, California * Post Conviction, 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 16 MD State Bar Assoc. Golf &Tennis Outing 17 MD State Bar Assoc. Crab Feast, Annapolis * Maryland Legal History, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 22 * Actions Under 42 U.S.C. 1983, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p. m. SEPTEMBER * Contempt of Court, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 23 * Handling Guardianships, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 29–30 The Conference of Circuit Judges’ Annual Meeting, * Computer-Assisted Legal Research, 1:00 p.m. Rocky Gap Resort, Allegany County to 4:30 p.m. 24 * Significant Appellate Decisions, 9:00 a.m. to * Judicial Institute of Maryland programs. Please note that these courses 12:00 p.m. are open only to judges and masters. Masters are permitted to register for courses pertaining to the types of cases they hear.

News from the Bench (continued from page 4)

Judge Vicki Ballou Watts joins Baltimore County District Court, been a solo practitioner in Princess Anne since 1973, and has also succeeding retired Judge John Garmer. Judge Watts, a solo practi- served as an Assistant Public Defender. He graduated from the Uni- tioner who concentrated on personal injury, criminal, traffic and fam- versity of Maryland School of Law in 1971. He provided pro bono ily law, is a 1983 graduate of the University of North Carolina School legal services to the Somerset County Development Center, which of Law. She began her legal career in 1984 with the firm of Gerald serves mentally retarded adults, and to MAC, Inc., which assists the A. Smith and Associates. Since 1988, Judge Watts has served as elderly. panel attorney for the Baltimore City Public Defender’s Office. A member of the Maryland Trial Lawyers’ Association Board of Gov- WICOMICO COUNTY ernors since 1996, she was appointed to the Attorney Grievance Com- Wicomico County Circuit Court welcomes Judge Donald Davis to mission’s Inquiry Panel in 1998. the bench, to fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Sally Adkins to the Court of Special Appeals. Judge Davis has been a mem- MONTGOMERY COUNTY ber of the Salisbury law firm Perdue, Rayne, Davis & White since Montgomery County District Court welcomes Judge Michael J. 1969. This 1968 honors graduate of the University of Maryland School Algeo. Judge Algeo has served as Senior Assistant State’s Attorney of Law served on the Salisbury City Council from 1988 to 1992. He for Montgomery County from 1990-99, and previously, from 1986- is past president of the Wicomico County Bar Association, and served 88. He was a senior associate with the law firm of Jordan, Coyne & on the MSBA’s Committee on Judicial Appointments. Savits from 1988-90. A 1984 graduate of American University’s Washington College of Law, Judge Algeo, a Vietnam veteran, was RETIRED JUDGES an Air Force Sergeant from 1970-72. He was Precinct Chairman of Judge Robert D. Horsey, Somerset County District Court Montgomery County’s Democratic Party from 1990-99. Judge Darlene G. Perry, Prince George’s County Circuit Court SOMERSET COUNTY Judge Richard T. Rombro, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge R. Patrick Hayman joins the Somerset County District Court Judge Mary Ellen Rinehardt, Baltimore City District Court bench, succeeding retired Judge Robert Horsey. Judge Hayman has