Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera has appointed Judge S. James Sarbanes as the circuit administrative judge for the First Judicial Circuit, which includes Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. This appointment will take effect on August 16, 2021.
Chief Judge Barbera expressed gratitude towards Judge Brett W. Wilson for his over two decades of service. "As he prepares to retire this fall, I thank Judge Wilson, on behalf of the Maryland Judiciary, for his more than 20 years of exemplary public service as a judge and full-time magistrate on behalf of the people of Maryland," she stated. She further commented on Judge Sarbanes' capabilities: "Judge Sarbanes is an exceptional jurist and I am pleased to designate him to the leadership role of circuit administrative judge."
Judge Sarbanes will take over from Judge Wilson who has been in the position since January 1, 2017. As part of his transition into retirement effective November 1, 2021, Judge Wilson will remain as county administrative judge for Dorchester County until October 31, 2021.
Reflecting on his career and future plans, Judge Wilson said: "I have worked alongside Judge Sarbanes since his appointment to the bench and I am confident that he will be an excellent steward in his new position." He emphasized his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition with continued public service as a senior judge.
County and circuit administrative judges are responsible for court administration including budget management and trial scheduling. They ensure cases are handled promptly.
Judge Wilson's contributions include serving as designated judge for the Advanced Science and Technology Adjudication Resource (ASTAR) Center Program since 2005 and being named an inaugural ASTAR Fellow in October 2006. His involvement extends across numerous committees such as chairing the Court Operations Committee.
Expressing gratitude upon his new appointment, Judge Sarbanes remarked: "I am honored and humbled to be selected by Chief Judge Barbera for this new responsibility." He acknowledged working with a dedicated team in serving Maryland's residents.
Judge Sarbanes was appointed to Wicomico County's Circuit Court in February 2014 after being admitted to practice law in Maryland in 1999. His previous roles included working as a law clerk and partner at Laws & Sarbanes, P.A., before joining the judiciary.