Frederick County District Court Judge Eric W. Schaffer has been appointed as the administrative judge for District 11, covering Frederick and Washington counties in Maryland. The appointment was made by Chief Judge John P. Morrissey of the District Court of Maryland, following consultation with Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera of the Maryland Court of Appeals. This change will take effect on August 1, 2020.
Chief Judge Morrissey expressed confidence in the decision, stating, "Judge Schaffer is an exemplary jurist, and his leadership on the local bench makes him a strong choice for the role of district administrative judge." He looks forward to working with Judge Schaffer in this new capacity.
Judge Schaffer will be taking over from Judge Dino E. Flores, Jr., who has served as the administrative judge since July 29, 2016. Judge Flores will assist with the transition to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.
Chief Judge Barbera acknowledged Judge Flores's contributions, saying, "We are grateful to Judge Flores for his service as district administrative judge of the District Court in Frederick and Washington counties and the state of Maryland." She expressed confidence that Judge Schaffer would continue to provide strong leadership.
The role of a district administrative judge includes overseeing court administration, budget management, procurement functions, and managing trial calendars to ensure timely case resolutions.
Judge Schaffer expressed gratitude for his new role: "I am honored by the trust and support Chief Judge Barbera and Chief Judge Morrissey have shown in me in this new chapter of service." He aims to build upon Judge Flores's example and looks forward to serving both counties and Maryland courts effectively.
Judge Schaffer's career includes serving as a founding partner at Schaffer and Black, P.C., assistant public defender for District 11, assistant state’s attorney in Frederick County, among other roles. His legal education includes a Bachelor of Arts from Bucknell University and a Juris Doctor from Dickinson School of Law at Pennsylvania State University.
Judge Flores shared his positive view on working with Judge Schaffer: "I have known Judge Schaffer for 25 years... he will be an outstanding administrative judge."