Today, the Supreme Court of Maryland announced that Judge Richard “Ricky” Sandy has been appointed as the county administrative judge for the Circuit Court for Frederick County. His appointment will take effect on December 1, 2023, following the retirement of Judge Julie R. Stevenson Solt on November 30, 2023.
Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader expressed his gratitude towards Judge Solt's service, stating, "Judge Solt has served with honor and distinction during her 25-year career with the Maryland Judiciary, and I congratulate her on her public service to the people of Maryland." He further added that Judge Sandy’s new role would continue to provide "exceptional service in promoting fair and effective justice for the litigants of Frederick County."
The responsibilities of a county administrative judge include overseeing court administration, budget management, procurement functions, and managing trial calendars to ensure cases are resolved promptly.
Judge Sandy remarked on his appointment by saying, "I am honored and humbled by my appointment as county administrative judge and I appreciate Chief Justice Fader’s trust and confidence in naming me to this expanded judicial role." He acknowledged his years working alongside Judge Solt and expressed his commitment to maintaining excellence in justice delivery in Frederick County.
Since June 2016, Judge Sandy has served as an associate judge at the Circuit Court for Frederick County after being appointed by then-Governor Larry Hogan. He is currently vice-chair of the Judicial Council’s Legislative Committee and participates actively in various subcommittees related to juvenile law and domestic law processes.
Before becoming a judge, he was a family law magistrate at the same court from 2007 until his judicial appointment. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Denison University (1986) and a juris doctorate from Washington and Lee University (1989). He was admitted to practice law in Maryland later that year.