Justice Angela M. Eaves: Maryland’s Supreme Court Trailblazer

Justice Angela M. Eaves is recognized by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Hispanic Heritage Month for her extraordinary contributions to the legal profession and her historic appointment to the Supreme Court of Maryland. In 2022, Justice Eaves became the first Hispanic person to serve on Maryland’s highest court—an achievement that capped a legal career defined by public service, legal advocacy, and barrier-breaking leadership.

Born in the Canal Zone of Panama in 1959 to a Panamanian mother and an African American father, Justice Eaves grew up in a military family, moving across the U.S. and Germany before beginning her legal career in Texas. Since then, her journey has included trailblazing judicial appointments, precedent-setting litigation, and an unwavering commitment to access to justice in Maryland.

As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, the FBA Maryland Chapter proudly spotlights Justice Angela M. Eaves as a pioneering jurist, public servant, and inspiration to Maryland’s legal community.

Legal Beginnings and Commitment to Public Service

Justice Angela M. Eaves earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law in 1986, beginning her legal career as an Assistant City Attorney in Dallas. Her transition to Maryland marked the start of an impactful chapter in Harford County, where she was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 1990 and soon joined the Legal Aid Bureau. There, she provided legal services to some of the state’s most vulnerable populations.

Between 1993 and 2000, Justice Eaves served as an Assistant Attorney General for Maryland, representing state officials and correctional officers in civil litigation. Her role also included appeals work on behalf of the Department of Human Resources in child support matters. One of her most influential cases came in Wills v. Jones, a 1995 decision in which the Maryland Supreme Court addressed whether incarcerated parents could be absolved of child support obligations under the state’s voluntary impoverishment standard.

Justice Eaves successfully argued that incarceration should not eliminate a parent's financial responsibilities. “No court can relieve a parent of the obligation to pay. Even if it is reduced to zero, the obligation is still there,” she said. Her position helped shape Maryland's child support policy and reinforced protections for children in the context of complex legal circumstances.

Breaking Barriers in the Maryland Judiciary

The judicial appointments of Justice Angela M. Eaves have consistently marked historic milestones. On March 27, 2000, she became the first African American appointed to the District Court of Maryland in Harford County. She served there until 2007, when she was elevated to the Circuit Court, where she remained for 15 years.

In 2015, she was appointed Administrative Judge of the Harford County Circuit Court, becoming the first woman to lead the court in its history. Her leadership emphasized not only courtroom administration but also equitable access to justice. Judge Eaves was known for her balanced, compassionate, and principled approach to complex family and civil matters.

In March 2022, then-Governor Larry Hogan nominated her to the Supreme Court of Maryland, and she was officially sworn in on April 12, 2022. Her appointment shattered another glass ceiling, as she became both the first Hispanic and one of the few women of color to serve on the state’s highest bench.

In addition to her judicial duties, Justice Eaves contributes as an instructor for the Maryland Judicial College and the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, sharing her knowledge with peers and mentoring the next generation of judges.

Community Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Justice Angela M. Eaves has long been recognized for her tireless service and legal excellence. In 1996, she received the Office of Attorney General’s Pro Bono Award for her work advancing the legal rights of underserved communities. Her career has continued to reflect a dedication to both justice and mentorship—qualities that have earned her respect throughout Maryland’s legal system.

Beyond the bench, Justice Eaves has served on commissions aimed at improving civic engagement, equity, and government accountability. Her experience on the Harford County Charter Review Commission and the Human Relations Commission showcases her broader commitment to systemic change at the local level.

Justice Eaves’ legacy is one of perseverance, integrity, and leadership. Her rise to the Supreme Court of Maryland serves as both a historic achievement and an inspiration to future generations of Hispanic and African American attorneys and judges who seek to make their mark in public service.

Honoring Justice Angela M. Eaves During Hispanic Heritage Month

Justice Angela M. Eaves exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, resilience, and a passion for justice. Her trailblazing role on the Supreme Court of Maryland is only the latest chapter in a career of firsts, each rooted in service and advocacy. From courtroom litigation to judicial education, her influence extends far beyond the bench.

The Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter is proud to spotlight Justice Eaves during Hispanic Heritage Month. Her life and work reflect the enduring contributions of Hispanic leaders in law and the importance of diversity in the judiciary.

To learn more about upcoming events honoring trailblazers like Justice Eaves, visit the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter events page.