Carrying on a Legacy of Success
One of the oldest and most respected law firms in Annapolis, Hillman, Brown & Darrow (HBD) commemorated its 40th year on October 1, 2019. A momentous occasion, the event offered the attorneys an opportunity to reflect on the firm’s rich history and celebrate how much it has grown and evolved throughout the years. Indeed, HBD has successfully adapted to meet the needs of an ever-changing world and takes pride in its ability to provide the highest level of service and dedication to its clients.
Founded in 1929 by Noah A. Hillman, the enduring legacy of HBD extends back to 1976 when Samuel J. Brown began his practice with Noah and his son, Richard Hillman. However, it was not until October 1, 1979, when Hillman & Brown merged with the practice of Michael P. Darrow that HBD was officially born. The founding partners established a tradition of excellence that they passed down to the next generation, and the firm’s mission and commitment to its core values will never change.
A full-service law firm, HBD has stood the test of time and prides itself on its longevity, its stability, and its role as a pillar of the community. Since 1979, the firm has grown from three to 11 attorneys who have 285 combined years of experience practicing law. All of the attorneys passed the bar exam the first time: Samuel J. Brown (1976), Michael P. Darrow (1977), Daniel J. Mellin (1981), M. Evelyn Spurgin (1979), Jonathan E. Pasterick (1999), Marietta B. Warren (2006), Crighton A. Chase (2003), Brian D. Lyman (2003), Lauren A. Torggler (2013), Sarah E. Brown (2015), and H. Winship Wheatley, III (1983).
Indeed, the attorneys at HBD specialize in various areas of practice and excel at providing high-quality legal services to meet their clients’ individual needs. So it’s not surprising that they have been listed as Leading Lawyers in What’s Up? since the inception of the survey. They have also consistently received recognition as either The Capital Readers’ Choice Winner or Finalist since 2010. In addition, several of the attorneys at HBD have been selected as Super Lawyers or Super Lawyers Rising Stars. SmartCEO recognized the firm among the top business elite in the area who symbolize leadership, innovation, and philanthropy as “Power Players” at its Inaugural SmartCEO Power Players Awards Ceremony. All of these highly esteemed awards, which are just a few of the honors that they have received, serve as a testament to the expertise and professionalism of the attorneys—solidifying HBD’s reputation as one of the most successful law firms in Annapolis.
In addition to its strong work ethic and dedication to its clients, HBD is also committed to giving back to the community. The attorneys are involved in and have served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Anne Arundel County Public Library Foundation, the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, the Anne Arundel County Food Bank, Annapolis Waterfront & Sailing Center, the Annapolis Film Festival, GiGi’s Playhouse of Annapolis, Historic London Town & Gardens, The Severn River Association, Anne Arundel Bar Association and Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. They also participate in charity golf tournaments and were awarded the Cup of Knowledge in the Anne Arundel Bar Association (AABA) Charity Pub Quiz.
“Our roots are deep, and our involvement in the community is far-reaching,” says Samuel J. Brown. “We love what we do, and we look forward to what the future holds.”
HBD's Attourneys
- Samuel J. Brown
- Michael P. Darrow
- Daniel J. Mellin
- M. Evelyn Spurgin
- Jonathan E. Pasterick
- Marietta B. Warren
- Crighton A. Chase
- Brian D. Lyman
- Lauren A. Torggler
- Sarah E. Brown
- H. Winship Wheatley, III
Practice Areas
- Accidents & Workers’ Compensation
- Alcoholic Beverage Licenses
- Appeals
- Business
- Collections
- Zoning
- Construction
- Corporate Law
- Criminal & Traffic
- Divorce & Family
- Real Estate & Land Use
- Wills, Trusts & Estates
Client Testimonials
“Words can’t express how grateful I am [for] your guidance, support, and encouragement during this process. I will be forever grateful that I had a recommendation from a friend to [work with] your firm. And I will highly recommend you to anyone in [a] situation that requires legal help.”
– Satisfied client
“You’ve been a godsend to me. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate all you’ve done for me and the weight you’ve taken off my shoulders now that we have things [finalized]. Thank you so, so much.” – Satisfied client
221 Duke of Gloucester Street
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
410-263-3131 | www.hbdlaw.com
