Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera has announced the appointment of two new circuit administrative judges. Baltimore County Circuit Judge Kathleen Gallogly Cox will serve as the administrative judge for the Third Judicial Circuit, covering Baltimore and Harford counties. Meanwhile, Baltimore City Circuit Judge W. Michel Pierson has been appointed as the administrative judge for the Eighth Judicial Circuit, which includes Baltimore City.
"Judge Cox and Judge Pierson have impressive records of service, leadership, and administrative experience in their courts," said Chief Judge Barbera. "I’m sure Judge Pierson and Judge Cox will help advance the Judiciary’s goal of achieving equal, fair, and timely access to justice here in Maryland."
Retired Chief Judge Robert M. Bell expressed his support for these appointments: "I applaud Chief Judge Barbera's appointments of Judge Pierson as the next administrative judge for the Eighth Judicial Circuit and Judge Cox as the administrative judge for the Third Judicial Circuit. They are each accomplished jurists and excellent choices to succeed Judge Marcella Holland and Judge John Turnbull, both of whom have served with distinction, and whose service has been exemplary."
Circuit administrative judges are responsible for overseeing court administration, budget management, procurement functions, trial calendars, and ensuring cases are handled efficiently. They also supervise county administrative judges along with other judges, officers, and employees.
Judge Kathleen G. Cox took on her new role effective August 27th following the retirement of Judge John Grason Turnbull II in August. She joined the Baltimore County Circuit Court bench in February 1999 and has been a leader in juvenile court since 2001.
"I am honored to have been selected for this position by Chief Judge Barbera," said Judge Cox. "I’ve been privileged to have Judge Turnbull’s excellent example of leadership, and I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow judges in the Circuit Court and serve the people of Baltimore and Harford counties."
Judge W. Michel Pierson's appointment will be effective December 1st after succeeding retiring Administrative Judge Marcella A. Holland on November 30th. He was appointed to his current court position in 2004.
"I’m thankful for the confidence Chief Judge Barbera has shown in me with this appointment," stated Pierson. "It is an honor to follow Judge Holland’s example, and I will continue to do my best to ensure we provide open, fair and equal access to all who come to the Baltimore City Circuit Court."
Judge Holland added her endorsement: "From the time I decided to retire this year, Michel Pierson was my first choice for my successor... He will continue the tradition of strong, fair and excellent leadership of the Circuit Court for Baltimore City."
Both judges bring extensive legal backgrounds into their new roles with years spent serving on various bar associations or legal committees within Maryland.