Judge Rosalyn Tang: Youngest Woman Appellate Judge in Maryland

Judge Rosalyn Tang is celebrated by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month for her historic achievements and unwavering dedication to justice. A groundbreaking jurist and dedicated advocate for diversity in law, Judge Tang became the first Asian American and the youngest woman appointed to the Appellate Court of Maryland in 2022.

Born in Washington, D.C. in 1980 to Taiwanese immigrants, Judge Tang's legal journey is rooted in hard work, public service, and an unrelenting commitment to inclusion within the legal system. Her story reflects not only personal accomplishment but also the growing importance of representation in Maryland’s courts. From her early days in Montgomery County to her appellate court leadership, Judge Tang exemplifies integrity, mentorship, and community engagement.

The FBA Maryland Chapter honors Judge Tang this AAPI Heritage Month for her contributions both on and off the bench. Her leadership continues to inspire a new generation of attorneys committed to justice, equity, and public service in Maryland and beyond.

Education and Legal Foundations of Judge Rosalyn Tang

Judge Rosalyn Tang has forged a distinguished legal path anchored in strong academic credentials and foundational courtroom experience. She began her education at Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, Maryland—a prestigious institution that emphasized academic rigor and leadership. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Duke University in 2002, graduating cum laude. Driven by a passion for law and advocacy, she later obtained her Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University’s Dedman School of Law, again graduating cum laude in 2006.

Following law school, Judge Tang honed her legal skills through clerkships with Judge Eric M. Johnson and Judge S. Michael Pincus at the Montgomery County Circuit Court. These formative experiences grounded her understanding of trial court operations and deepened her commitment to serving the public through legal excellence.

Her early legal career included private practice positions with The Cantalupo Law Group and Miles & Stockbridge, P.C., where she rose to the role of principal. In her commercial litigation and family law work, she became known for her tenacity, ethical standards, and deep commitment to clients. In recognition of her dedication to underserved communities, she was awarded the firm’s Pro Bono Advocate Award in 2018—a reflection of her drive to ensure justice is accessible to all.

A Historic Appointment and Legal Impact

The legal career of Judge Rosalyn Tang reached a historic milestone in 2022 when she was appointed to the Appellate Court of Maryland by Governor Larry Hogan. With this appointment, she became both the first Asian American and the youngest woman to serve on the state’s appellate bench, breaking two significant barriers and expanding the diversity of Maryland’s judiciary.

Before her appointment, Judge Tang had already established herself as a respected figure in the legal community. Her appellate background, litigation experience, and family law insights brought a well-rounded perspective to the bench. Her professional focus on both commercial law and public interest advocacy exemplifies her ability to balance complex legal principles with real-world impact.

Judge Tang’s appointment is a reminder of the importance of diverse representation in interpreting and shaping state law. Her presence on the appellate court bench ensures a broader range of perspectives on legal interpretation and fosters trust among Maryland’s increasingly diverse population. As a jurist, she brings not only legal acumen but also a commitment to fairness, mentorship, and community involvement that has left a lasting impression on colleagues and practitioners alike.

Championing Mentorship, Diversity, and Legal Leadership

Throughout her career, Judge Rosalyn Tang has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to advancing diversity and mentoring future legal professionals. Her leadership in professional organizations, including her presidency of the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Maryland (APABA) from 2017 to 2018, revitalized engagement among Asian American attorneys across the state. During her tenure, she prioritized outreach, professional development, and visibility for Asian American voices in law.

She also served as president of the Women’s Bar Association of Maryland, championing gender equity and leadership among women in the legal profession. Judge Tang’s advocacy was recognized with numerous honors, including the Andrew L. Sonner Excellence in Diversity Award from the Montgomery County Bar Foundation in 2018. That same year, she also received the President’s Award from the Women’s Bar Association, affirming her influence in advancing legal inclusion.

Judge Tang continues to invest in mentorship opportunities for law students and young attorneys. In 2023, she delivered the keynote address for the University of Maryland’s Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA), where she spoke about overcoming cultural barriers and building lasting professional networks. Her message emphasized the importance of mentorship and solidarity, core values she continues to model through her public service and judicial leadership.

Celebrating Service During AAPI Heritage Month

Judge Rosalyn Tang embodies the spirit of AAPI Heritage Month through her groundbreaking accomplishments, community advocacy, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her appointment to the Appellate Court of Maryland represents a significant step forward in judicial diversity, and her leadership in bar associations and mentorship efforts continues to uplift the next generation of legal professionals.

As we celebrate Judge Tang’s achievements, we are reminded that inclusion strengthens the legal system and fosters a more representative and equitable profession. Her legacy underscores how lived experience and cultural heritage can enhance judicial perspectives and community trust.

The Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter is proud to honor Judge Rosalyn Tang as part of its AAPI Heritage Month spotlight. To engage with more inspiring stories and learn about upcoming events that support inclusion in the legal profession, visit the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter events page.