Supreme Court of Maryland Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader has announced the appointments of Judge Donna M. Schaeffer and Judge Brenda A. Sexton as county administrative judges for Anne Arundel County and Cecil County, respectively. Judge Schaeffer's appointment will take effect on April 20, 2023, following the retirement of Judge Glenn L. Klavans. Judge Sexton will assume her role on April 15, 2023, succeeding Judge Keith A. Baynes.
Chief Justice Fader expressed gratitude to the outgoing judges for their service: “On behalf of the Maryland Judiciary, I thank Judge Klavans and Judge Baynes for their extraordinary leadership over the course of their judicial careers.” He praised Judges Schaeffer and Sexton as "outstanding and well-respected jurists" committed to delivering fair justice.
County administrative judges manage court administration, budget, procurement functions, and trial calendars to ensure timely case resolutions.
Judge Schaeffer commented on her new role: “I am honored to be selected as administrative judge, and I appreciate Chief Justice Fader’s confidence in me.” She acknowledged her predecessor's influence: “It has been a pleasure to work alongside my esteemed colleague, Judge Klavans.”
Since January 2016, Judge Schaeffer has served as an associate judge at the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County after being appointed by Governor Larry Hogan. Her career includes roles such as a partner at Council, Baradel, Kosmerl & Nolan from 1997 to 2016.
Judge Sexton expressed similar sentiments: “It is an honor and a privilege to be selected as administrative judge.” She looks forward to continuing collaboration with colleagues in Cecil County.
Appointed by then-Governor Martin O’Malley in January 2014, Judge Sexton has served at the Circuit Court for Cecil County. Her previous positions include assistant state’s attorney for Cecil County from 2002 to 2011.
Both judges bring extensive legal experience and leadership skills to their new roles in Maryland's judiciary system.