District Judge Adam Abelson Appointed to U.S. District Court

District Judge Adam Abelson was officially sworn in as a United States District Judge for the District of Maryland on September 16, 2024. His appointment marks a milestone in a distinguished legal career that has long been connected to both the bench and the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA). Judge Abelson previously served as a U.S. Magistrate Judge, having been sworn into that role on September 18, 2023. His elevation to District Judge follows the vacancy created when the Honorable James K. Bredar took senior status.

President Joe Biden nominated Judge Abelson in May 2024, and the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination on September 11. President Biden signed the judicial commission the following day. Throughout this process, the Maryland legal community has followed his progress with great pride and enthusiasm, recognizing his longstanding commitment to public service and legal excellence.

A Leader Within the Maryland Chapter

Judge Abelson has been deeply involved in the Maryland Chapter of the FBA for several years, serving in both board and officer roles since 2018. His participation has not only strengthened the Chapter’s mission but has also helped foster meaningful programming for members of the legal community. In January 2024, Judge Abelson participated in a virtual Fireside Chat with the Chapter, offering insights into his judicial philosophy, career path, and personal motivations.

During that conversation, Judge Abelson credited his grandmother, a first-generation American, for instilling in him the importance of public service. He also spoke about the invaluable mentorship he has received within the judiciary and praised the “open door” collegiality among his colleagues. These experiences have helped shape his transition from private practice to the bench and ultimately to his new role as District Judge.

Chapter President Maria Salacuse noted, “Throughout his tenure with our Chapter, Judge Abelson has been an invaluable asset, demonstrating leadership, integrity, and a tireless commitment to advancing the legal profession. The Chapter is immensely proud of his achievements and confident that he will continue to serve with distinction and uphold the highest standards of our judiciary.”

Legal Career and Judicial Experience

Before joining the bench, Judge Abelson practiced as a litigator at Zuckerman Spaeder LLP, where he represented clients in high-stakes civil and white-collar criminal matters. His advocacy and strategic thinking earned him respect across the legal community, and his firm commitment to ethics and justice was evident in each case he handled.

Judge Abelson began his legal career with two prestigious clerkships: first for the Honorable Catherine C. Blake of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, and then for the Honorable Andre M. Davis of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (ret.). These foundational experiences exposed him to the highest levels of legal reasoning and helped shape his approach to judicial decision-making.

Judge Abelson holds a degree from Princeton University, where he graduated cum laude, and a J.D. from New York University School of Law, magna cum laude. At NYU Law, he was inducted into the Order of the Coif, a recognition reserved for top-performing law graduates.

A Future Guided by Service and Integrity

Judge Abelson’s elevation to the U.S. District Court is a testament to his legal acumen, ethical foundation, and unwavering dedication to justice. As he steps into his new role, he carries with him not only the technical knowledge required of a federal judge but also the values of humility, collaboration, and public service.

The Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association celebrates this achievement and looks forward to Judge Abelson’s continued contributions to the legal community. His career is a reflection of what can be accomplished through perseverance, mentorship, and a commitment to improving the rule of law.

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