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Fireside Chat Held with Bankruptcy Judge Nancy V. Alquist
On April 16, 2025, the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, jointly with the Maryland Bankruptcy Bar Association, had another excellent fireside judiciary chat, this time with the Honorable Nancy V. Alquist of the Maryland Bankruptcy Court, Baltimore Division. The chat was moderated by Irving E. Walker of Cole Schotz P.C., who frequently appears in the Maryland Bankruptcy Court as well as other bankruptcy and federal courts in other states, representing companies in distress and other clients in litigation arising out of business bankruptcy cases. Judge Alquist, who was appointed to serve on the Maryland Bankruptcy Court in 2004, first spoke about her career and the importance of two very influential mentors in her development as an accomplished bankruptcy lawyer prior to her appointment to the bench.
With respect to practicing in her Court, Judge Alquist encouraged non-bankruptcy lawyers to seize opportunities to get involved in litigation in the bankruptcy court, since it is governed for the most part by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure as modified by the Federal Bankruptcy Rules and Local Bankruptcy Rules, and the Federal Rules of Evidence. She noted that this is a great way, especially for younger lawyers, to get experience handling evidentiary hearings in federal court, while also emphasizing the importance of knowing the applicable Bankruptcy Rules, the Local Rules and the bankruptcy judge’s protocols.
Judge Alquist discussed one of the bigger challenges the Bankruptcy Court faces, which is the very large number of pro se case filings by debtors in Maryland, and invited members of the bankruptcy bar to think about the reasons behind the fact that Maryland, for most years, is second only to Washington D.C. in the percentage of debtor cases filed pro se, and whether there is anything that can be done to reduce the numbers of such cases, given the difficulties debtors face in attempting to navigate through bankruptcy, especially Chapter 13, without counsel.
Judge Alquist also discussed her very extensive international experience devoting significant time to programs, through the Department of Commerce, conducting workshops and trainings in many developing countries to help them develop a judicial system for bankruptcy, commercial law, and insurance law, which are essential for countries to become attractive for international lending. Her work has included workshops with lawyers, judges and government leaders in Argentina, Chile, New Delhi, Kyiv and Odessa, Ukraine, Kosovo, Dubai, Kabul, Afghanistan, and Iraq, as well as a number of other countries. Judge Alquist also discussed briefly her service on the Bankruptcy Committee of the Judicial Conference of the United States.
The program was a great opportunity for trial lawyers who may not have much familiarity with the Bankruptcy Court, as well as members of the Maryland Bankruptcy Bar, to hear about Judge Alquist’s unique experiences and perspectives.
More Than 250 Guests Attend the Maryland Chapter's Annual Luncheon
On April 11, 2025, the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association was proud to host our annual luncheon. More than 250 guests, including twelve judges of the United States District Court for the District of Maryland joined us in honoring retiring Magistrate Judge A. David Copperthite and newly appointed District Judge Adam Abelson. Chief Judge George L. Russell, III provided a moving remembrance of Judge Peter J. Messitte. We also had the great honor of hosting an inspiring and uplifting conversation with Tony West, moderated by former District Judge George Hazel. Mark Saudek of Gallagher Evelius & Jones ably and seamlessly moderated the event.
Defense of the independent judiciary. The FBA opened the luncheon with a call to action to continue to defend the independence of the federal judiciary. We restated our commitment to standing with the federal judiciary, to ensure that our judges can continue to provide the fair and independent administration of justice, without fear or favor.
Recognition of Chapter achievements. Maria Salacuse, Chapter President, described the work of the Chapter over the course of the year, including many CLE programs, networking events, and events in partnership with the Court. Maria thoughtfully recognized the many people responsible for these accomplishments. Other speakers recognized Maria’s tremendous leadership and passion for moving the FBA forward.
Judge Messitte’s personal and international work for justice. Chief Judge Russell delivered moving remarks on the life and career of District Judge Peter A. Messitte, who passed in January. Chief Judge Russell described Judge Messitte’s lifelong commitment to international law and dedication to First Amendment rights. Judge Messitte was remembered for his judicial outreach throughout the world, and especially in Latin America, culminating in the Order of the Southern Cross for his contributions to the Brazilian Judiciary. Chief Judge Russell also honored Judge Messitte as a tireless advocate for the Southern Division, a treasured mentor to his law clerks, and a dear friend to the Court family.
Judge Abelson’s commitment to the Constitution. Judge Abelson provided remarks that included the deep honor he feels “to have been asked to serve our community as a judge of our court, a court where every person in every component is deeply committed to our mission under the Constitution—not only the judges and law clerks, but the Clerk’s office, court security officers, pretrial and probation, Marshals, and everyone else.” He went on to thank the Bar “for the work you do on behalf of your clients, for being our partners in delivering justice for our community.”
Judge Copperthite’s recollections. Judge Copperthite recalled the collegiality of the Bench and the deep respect he has for his former colleagues and the difficult work they do. During people’s most trying times, he pointed out, the U.S. District Court provides even-handed, impartial justice. Judge Copperthite recalled his strong relationships with Court staff and law clerks. He shared several anecdotes from his nine years on the bench. The Court has recalled Judge Copperthite for a certain number of days each year, so he said we can expect to see him continuing to don his robe, when he is not enjoying time with family and playing guitar.
Tony West’s inspiring remarks. We were honored to host special guest Tony West, Chief Legal Officer at Uber and former Associate Attorney General of the United States. Mr. West described his fascinating work at Uber, and in the Civil Rights, Antitrust, Tax, Environment and Natural Resources, and Civil Divisions of the Department of Justice, as well as the Office of Justice Programs, the Office on Violence Against Women, and the Community Oriented Policing Services Office. Following the financial crisis, Mr. West’s the Department of Justice secured nearly $37 billion in fines and penalties from financial institutions whose conduct harmed Americans during the 2009 financial crisis. Mr. West shared remarks that were topical and pressing, while still grounded and personal. He blended humor and modesty with keen insight that entertained and inspired us all. We are grateful for Mr. West’s generous remarks, as well to former District Judge George Hazel, who expertly moderated the conversation with Mr. West.
Our sponsors. We extend our thanks to our Gold Sponsor Prevail and our Silver Sponsor Planet Depos.
Thank you! We thank Samantha Miller Kavanagh and Caroline Bushel of Zuckerman Spaeder and Mark Saudek, Cristina Salce, and Vivian Lynch of Gallagher Evelius & Jones for all of their efforts in planning and coordinating this event. Most of all— THANK YOU to all who attended! We loved seeing each of you and we look forward to seeing you again soon.
The FBA Maryland Chapter Issues Statement in Defense of Judiciary
On February 28, 2025, the FBA Maryland Chapter issued a statement in defense of the judiciary condemning attacks on the independent federal judiciary and urging members of the bar to stand with our judges when they face threats and intimidation. The full statement may be found at Defense of the Judiciary - Federal Bar Association MD.
Fireside Chat Held with Chief Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Sullivan
On February 6, 2025, the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association had yet another excellent fireside judiciary chat, this time with Chief Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Sullivan who was appointed to Chief Magistrate Judge on September 1, 2023. The fireside chat was moderated by FBA Board Member Beatrice “Bea” Thomas. Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan described his extensive federal defense work in different districts, helping to save lives through mitigation efforts with his colleagues. He detailed how important his defense work was to him, describing it as ”incredibly stressful, but incredibly rewarding.” He also reflected on the painful aspect of his work, sharing about the death of one of his clients, Dustin Higgs, who was the last person executed by the first Trump administration. With respect to his shift to becoming a judge, Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan described the tremendous admiration he had for federal judges in the District Court for the District of Maryland. Although noting that "they never agreed with me and I with them,” he found them to be respectful and delightful colleagues and friends. Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan explained that becoming a Magistrate Judge did not happen overnight, but he had a strong sense of public service and had good mentors like District Judge Paul W. Grimm (ret.), Magistrate Judge Beth P. Gesner (ret.), and Magistrate Judge William G. Connolly (ret.).
Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan addressed the importance of patience, recounting a time when lawyers had to put in “sweat equity" to find a path of law to specialize in. He noted that today lawyers seek to be senior partner before walking into a courtroom. He emphasized that good lawyering takes time, and that a new lawyer’s first priority should be to learn the practice of law. Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan also discussed the importance of mentors. He explained that face to face, in-person interactions are key to a successful mentor-mentee relationship. He encouraged attendees to have at least two people that they can have 100% confidence in and can call upon to help them move forward in their careers. Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan concluded by offering valuable insights to trial lawyers, advising that they recognize the weaknesses in their cases, and do not try to avoid them. He also cautioned that while preparation is important, lawyers should not be afraid to say when they do not know the answer.
It was a delight to have Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan sit down with us and offer a glimpse into the multi-faceted aspects of his professional experiences as an advocate and judge. As someone who has dedicated his life to fighting on behalf of others and upholding the rule of law, it is clear that Chief Magistrate Judge Sullivan’s career path is marked by fairness, integrity, and a commitment to justice.
Fireside Chat Held with Chief Judge George L. Russell, III
On November 21, 2024, the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association continued its fireside chat series with a conversation with Chief Judge George L. Russell, III, moderated by FBA Board Member LaShanta Harris. Chief Judge Russell was recently elevated to Chief Judge on May 1, 2024. Chief Judge Russell described his early professional experience with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, where he worked in both the Criminal and Civil Divisions before being appointed as a judge first to the Circuit Court for Baltimore City (2007) and later to the United States District Court for the District of Maryland (2011).
Chief Judge Russell shared valuable insights with the chat attendees, including the strong influence of Chief Judge Russell’s father, George L. Russell, Jr., who was the first African American to sit on the Circuit Court in Maryland and the first African American to sit on an appellate court in the state of Maryland. A picture of Chief Judge Russell and his father graced the wall on the background of Chief Judge Russell’s chambers where the fireside chat was held. During the chat, Chief Judge Russell acknowledged the support of his colleagues and all of the personnel within the Maryland District Court who have helped facilitate a smooth transition to the Chief Judge position. Chief Judge Russell also encouraged new lawyers to surround themselves with excellent lawyers so that they can pick up the habits and traits that make an excellent lawyer, such as being a hard worker and having the utmost integrity. He also suggested that lawyers give back to their local communities by doing a community activity at least once per quarter. Chief Judge Russell then concluded with encouragement for all lawyers to continue to practice civility and professionalism in order to maintain the high level of excellence that exists in the community of Maryland District Court practitioners.
We are truly grateful for Chief Judge Russell’s willingness to spend time with us and to share his views and the experience he has gained through his long and continued career in our great Maryland legal community.