Judge W. Michel Pierson, the administrative judge for the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, has announced that Judge Charles J. Peters will lead the court’s criminal division starting January 2, 2015. "Management of the court’s criminal division is a challenging task, and I am confident that Judge Peters will continue the tradition of strong and effective leadership," stated Judge Pierson.
In his new role, Judge Peters will oversee the assignment of judges and manage the criminal docket. Additionally, he will chair the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. He succeeds Judge Barry G. Williams, who served in this capacity for three years. Reflecting on Judge Williams' tenure, Judge Pierson said, "The court owes Judge Williams a large debt of gratitude for his skillful supervision of the criminal docket and his devotion to improving its administration."
Expressing enthusiasm about his appointment, Judge Peters remarked, “I am looking forward to the challenge. It is an honor to have been chosen to follow Judge Williams’ fine example.”
Judge Peters has been serving on the Circuit Court bench since February 2010 and has contributed as a member of the Judiciary’s Criminal Law and Procedure Committee. His career includes roles as Assistant State’s Attorney for Baltimore City from 1986-1994 and Assistant U.S. Attorney in Maryland until his judicial appointment in 2010.
Educationally distinguished with a degree from the University of Virginia in 1978 and a J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law in 1981, he began practicing law privately before transitioning into public service roles.
He holds memberships with both Maryland State and Baltimore City bar associations and participates actively in various legal committees. Outside his professional commitments, he volunteers with community organizations such as Our Daily Bread and House of Ruth.