Maryland Judicial Appointments Bring New Expertise to Baltimore and Frederick Courts

Governor Wes Moore has appointed three new judges to courts in Maryland. The appointments fill vacancies on the Baltimore County Circuit Court and the Frederick County District Court. These selections aim to bring experienced legal professionals to the bench.

The new judges bring diverse backgrounds in prosecution, private practice, and domestic violence law. According to the Governor’s official announcement, their careers demonstrate a strong commitment to justice. This move strengthens the judicial system in these key counties.

Baltimore County Gains Two New Circuit Court Judges

Ralph Laurence Sapia and Evelyn Lombardo Cusson will join the Baltimore County Circuit Court. Sapia runs a solo law practice in Towson and has deep community ties. He previously worked as a teacher and serves on several local boards.

Evelyn Lombardo Cusson is a seasoned federal prosecutor. She serves as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. Her work focuses on white-collar crime and protecting elderly citizens from abuse.

Both appointees bring decades of combined legal experience. Their varied backgrounds in civil and criminal law will provide valuable perspectives. This enhances the court’s ability to handle a wide range of complex cases.

Frederick County District Court Appoints Domestic Violence Expert

Brett Joann Engler was appointed to the Frederick County District Court. She currently leads the domestic violence unit at the Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office. Engler has dedicated her career to prosecuting these sensitive cases.

Her expertise was instrumental in advocating for a 2020 state law. This law made strangulation a first-degree assault felony in Maryland. Engler also chairs key councils that coordinate community response to domestic violence.

This appointment ensures the court has specialized knowledge for handling domestic cases. It strengthens the legal protection available for vulnerable residents. Her leadership is expected to have a direct impact on local public safety.

These Maryland judicial appointments reflect a focus on practical experience and community service. The new judges are poised to make significant contributions to their respective courts. Maryland’s legal system is strengthened by this infusion of dedicated talent.

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Who are the new judges appointed in Maryland?

Governor Moore appointed Ralph Sapia and Evelyn Cusson to the Baltimore County Circuit Court. He also appointed Brett Engler to the Frederick County District Court. All three have extensive legal backgrounds.

What is Evelyn Lombardo Cusson’s professional background?

Evelyn Cusson is a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Maryland. She specializes in white-collar crime and elder justice initiatives. She also currently serves as president of the Baltimore City Bar Association.

What is Brett Engler known for in her legal career?

Brett Engler is recognized as a leading expert on domestic violence prosecution. She helped pass a 2020 law making strangulation a felony in Maryland. She leads Frederick County’s domestic violence coordinating council.

When do these judicial appointments take effect?

The appointments are effective immediately following the governor’s announcement. The new judges will assume their roles on the bench without delay. This fills critical vacancies in the state court system.

How are Maryland judges selected for appointment?

Judges are appointed by the governor from a list of qualified candidates. These candidates are typically vetted by judicial nominating commissions. The process emphasizes professional qualifications and ethical standards.