Advancing Justice, Judicial Engagement & Inclusion in Federal Practice

Welcome to the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter

The Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) serves as a trusted resource and dynamic professional forum for attorneys practicing before the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Our mission is to support federal practitioners through high-impact programming, mentorship, and community engagement.

As a member-driven organization, we offer year-round opportunities for education, networking, and leadership. The Chapter is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and diverse legal community. We promote collaboration between the bench and bar, address pressing legal and societal issues, and empower attorneys at every career stage to transition into or thrive within federal practice.

Whether you are a new attorney, an experienced litigator, or a member of the judiciary, the FBA Maryland Chapter invites you to join us in strengthening the future of federal law in Maryland. Join the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter to drive your legal career forward.

FBA Maryland Chapter Updates
Federal Law Clerk Bar Admissions: Maryland FBA Congratulates Newest Members
Federal Law Clerk Bar Admissions: Maryland FBA Congratulates Newest Members

Federal law clerk bar admissions were front and center on June 13, 2025, as the FBA Maryland Chapter proudly sponsored a ceremony honoring new members of the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.

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2025 DiRito Award Honors Bonnie Greenberg for Outstanding Public Service
2025 DiRito Award Honors Bonnie Greenberg for Outstanding Public Service

On June 12, 2025, the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter gathered for a vibrant evening of networking and camaraderie at TopGolf. While members enjoyed reconnecting and sharing professional updates, the focal point of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 DiRito Award, which honors exceptional public service in support of the FBA’s mission. This year’s award was presented to longtime FBA leader Bonnie Greenberg, whose federal legal career and commitment to the FBA exemplify the spirit of the award.

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Demystifying Federal Clerkships: Maryland Chapter Hosts UBalt Panel Discussion
Demystifying Federal Clerkships: Maryland Chapter Hosts UBalt Panel Discussion

The Demystifying Federal Clerkships event, held on April 16, 2025, at the University of Baltimore School of Law, provided students with valuable insight into the federal clerkship process. Hosted by the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association in partnership with the Alliance of Black Women Attorneys and the J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association, Inc., the event brought together federal judges, former clerks, and aspiring law students for an evening of learning and networking.

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Judge Nancy V. Alquist Shares Career Insights in Fireside Chat
Judge Nancy V. Alquist Shares Career Insights in Fireside Chat

Judge Nancy V. Alquist was the featured guest in a recent fireside-style event hosted by the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association in collaboration with the Maryland Bankruptcy Bar Association. Held on April 16, 2025, this unique conversation gave attendees an inside look at the judicial philosophy, career path, and international service of one of the most experienced bankruptcy judges in the state. The program was moderated by Irving E. Walker of Cole Schotz P.C., a seasoned litigator and frequent advocate in the Maryland Bankruptcy Court.

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Judge Sheila Tillerson Adams: Judicial Pioneer in Prince George’s County
Judge Sheila Tillerson Adams: Judicial Pioneer in Prince George’s County

Judge Sheila Tillerson Adams is celebrated by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Black History Month for her groundbreaking judicial career and enduring commitment to community-centered justice. From being the first African American woman appointed to the District Court in Prince George’s County to becoming Chief Judge of Maryland’s Seventh Judicial Circuit, Judge Adams has continually broken barriers and advanced equity in the legal profession.

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2025 Annual Luncheon: FBA Maryland Chapter Celebrates a Year of Impact
2025 Annual Luncheon: FBA Maryland Chapter Celebrates a Year of Impact

The 2025 Annual Luncheon of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) Maryland Chapter brought together more than 250 distinguished guests on April 11, 2025, at a celebratory event highlighting community, judicial excellence, and a shared commitment to justice. The program honored both the future and legacy of the Maryland legal community, with heartfelt tributes to newly appointed and retiring judges, a moving remembrance of the late Judge Peter J. Messitte, and an inspiring keynote conversation with Tony West, Chief Legal Officer of Uber and former Associate Attorney General of the United States.

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2025 Essay Contest: Maryland FBA Honors High School Winners
2025 Essay Contest: Maryland FBA Honors High School Winners

The 2025 essay contest organized by the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association invited high school students from across the state to weigh in on one of the most timely legal and civic issues today: whether schools should have the authority to censor or punish students for their social media posts. Running from February 3 through March 28, 2025, the contest received twenty thoughtful submissions from students across Maryland.

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Judge Rosalyn Tang: Youngest Woman Appellate Judge in Maryland
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.

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Margaret Brent: America’s First Woman Lawyer & Landowner
Margaret Brent: America’s First Woman Lawyer & Landowner

Margaret Brent is honored by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter during Women’s History Month for her groundbreaking role as the first female attorney in the American colonies. Widely recognized as a pioneer in the history of American law, Brent’s legal career in 17th-century Maryland set a precedent for generations of women in law and politics. Her story is one of fierce independence, legal intellect, and resistance to social norms that excluded women from formal power.

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Defense of the Judiciary Statement: Maryland FBA Issues Call to Action
Defense of the Judiciary Statement: Maryland FBA Issues Call to Action

The Defense of the Judiciary Statement issued by the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association on February 28, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the Chapter’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the independence and integrity of the federal judiciary. Against a backdrop of mounting public and political attacks on the judicial system, the statement calls on legal professionals, bar associations, and the public to stand firm in defending the courts and upholding the rule of law.

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Juanita Jackson Mitchell: Maryland’s First Black Woman Attorney
Juanita Jackson Mitchell: Maryland’s First Black Woman Attorney

Juanita Jackson Mitchell is honored by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter as part of its Black History Month celebration, recognizing her historic achievement as the first Black woman admitted to practice law in Maryland. A fearless civil rights advocate and legal trailblazer, Mitchell devoted her life to dismantling segregation, expanding voting rights, and advancing racial justice through both community activism and courtroom advocacy.

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Explore the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter’s Latest Updates

Become a Member of the FBA Maryland Chapter

become a member of the federal bar association maryland chapter wooden gavel

Join a vibrant community of federal practitioners by becoming a member of the FBA Maryland Chapter. Through the online application, be sure to select “Maryland Chapter” during the sign-up process to access exclusive local programming, networking opportunities, and events.

As a member, you can also join one or more of the FBA’s substantive law sections, which offer resources and insights across a wide range of federal practice areas. Whether you're new to federal law or an experienced practitioner, the FBA Maryland Chapter is here to support your professional growth.

FBA Maryland Chapter Resources

  • federal bar association maryland chapter constitution

    Constitution

    The FBA Maryland Chapter Constitution outlines the governing principles that guide our operations, leadership structure, and member engagement. This foundational document ensures transparency, accountability, and continuity in how we serve our mission and support the federal legal community in Maryland. Members are encouraged to review the Constitution to better understand the Chapter’s organizational framework and how they can actively participate in shaping its future.

    Read Our Constitution
  • federal bar association maryland chapter bylaws

    Bylaws

    For detailed rules and procedures, the FBA Maryland Chapter Bylaws provide show how we conduct our business, including officer responsibilities, committee structures, and membership protocols. They serve as a practical complement to the Constitution, ensuring consistency and clarity in day-to-day operations. We encourage members to review the Bylaws to stay informed about governance processes and opportunities for involvement in Chapter leadership.

    Learn Our Chapter's Bylaws
  • federal bar association maryland chapter committees conference room round table

    Committees

    Serving on a committee is a rewarding way to engage more deeply within the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter. Committees connect members around shared goals, whether through mentoring new lawyers, promoting diversity, or shaping impactful programming. Committee work fosters collaboration, leadership, and professional development while strengthening our Chapter’s mission to advance justice and excellence in federal practice.

    Join a Committee
  • federal bar association maryland chapter handbook open book pages flapping

    Handbook

    As a valuable resource, the FBA Maryland Chapter Handbook designed to help members navigate the Chapter’s structure, programs, and opportunities for involvement. Whether you're new to the Chapter or looking to take on a leadership role, the Handbook outlines key policies, committee functions, and best practices that guide our work throughout the year. Use the Handbook to stay informed, aligned, and connected to the Chapter’s ongoing efforts.

    Download Our Handbook
Sponsor the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter Woman Smiling

Sponsor the FBA Maryland Chapter

Gain visibility in Maryland’s federal legal community through digital, print, and in-person sponsorships.

Our flagship opportunity is the Annual Luncheon, attended by hundreds of attorneys and judges each spring.