Meet dynamic young legal professionals nominated by their firm as aspiring, diligent, and personable lawyers… each 40 years old or younger. Their zenith awaits them. Read on to meet the Up & Coming Lawyers of 2021.
Anne Arundel County
Laura Burrows Haviland, 40
The Law Office of Laura E. Burrows, Annapolis
410-960-6642; burrowsfamilylaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Family Law/Parent Coordination The firm says: Laura has been successfully litigating high conflict divorce and custody cases for 12 years. She now runs a family law firm with her husband, Eric Haviland. She and Eric have been working with divorcing parents doing co-mediation for nine years together. Laura is committed to reducing conflict for children, and is trained in Collaborative Law, Mediation, Parenting Coordination, and is a Best Interest attorney for children. Laura is on the Board of Directors for the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC). She has been active in promoting Parenting Coordination in Maryland, having trained other parent coordinators in the “Problem Solving” method. She has served as a national and international speaker at annual AFCC conventions in family law and representing children.
Evan Koslow, 38
Koslow Law Firm, Annapolis
443-482-5141; koslowlawfirm.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Since graduating with honors, Evan then did a year-long judicial clerkship with Judge Weatherly at the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County. After that clerkship, Evan has focused his practice on Family Law, as an attorney, mediator, and best interest attorney. He volunteers his time for the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court at Scheduling Conferences to try and help cases reach an amicable resolution sooner rather than later.
Nathan Volke, 33
The Law Offices of Stacey B. Rice, Annapolis
410-709-8971;staceyricelaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal Specialty: Family Law The firm says: Nathan is an exceptional attorney. He is thorough and detailed oriented, and he does not skip a beat. He is well-versed on the law and always prepared for any obstacle that comes his way; whether it’s a complex high-end property and financial matter, or a matter with highly-contested custody issues. Though his litigation skills are unparalleled, Nathan is also great at negotiating settlement agreements. He possesses all of the qualities that make for an all-around fantastic family law attorney.
Scott MacMullan, 39
Scott MacMullan Law, LLC, Annapolis
443-292-9033; macmullanlaw.com
Alma mater: Villanova University Legal specialty: Criminal Defense/Traffic Offenses/Personal Injury/Estate Planning The firm says: Scott advocates tirelessly for his clients and is active in giving back to his hometown Annapolis community via numerous boards and nonprofits, including as a member of the Community Action Agency of Anne Arundel County and as Vice-Chairman of the Anne Arundel County Board of Appeals. He focuses his practice on criminal defense, personal injury, business, and estate planning matters. Scott was honored as a “Super Lawyer” in 2021.
Alexander Pagnotta, 31
Sinclair Prosser Gasior, Annapolis
410-573-4818; spgasior.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland School of Law Legal specialty: Estate Planning/Elder Law/Estate Administration The firm says: Alexander received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Maryland School of Law, graduating with cum laude honors. He is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys where he is required to complete at least 36 hours of continuing education per year. Alex is dedicated to educating the public through seminars and webinars on the estate planning choices they can make to provide both financial and emotional security for their families and loved ones. He counsels individuals to meet their goals of preserving their wealth and protecting their legacy.
Josh Tabor, 32
Law Office of Marla Zide, Glen Burnie
443-557-4153; marlazidelaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: After graduating law school, Josh clerked for the Honorable William C. Mulford, II. Since his clerkship, Josh has been a litigation attorney at the Law Office of Marla Zide, LLC. Josh has successfully represented clients in complex family law matters including custody and property division. Josh is a true team player within the office and he is well respected among his peers.
Lisa Roberts Windsor, 36
Law Office of Marla Zide, Glen Burnie
443-557-4153; marlazidelaw.com
Alma mater: University of San Diego Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Lisa has been with the Law Office of Marla Zide, LLC for the last five years. Lisa has handled all aspects of family law matters and has recently become a Court certified mediator. Lisa is a zealous advocate for her clients and is truly a student of the law.
Brooke Bowman, 38
Bowman Jarashow Law, LLC, Annapolis
410-267-9545; bowmanjarashow.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Estates & Trusts/Business Law The firm says: Brooke is excited to transition her practice back to Annapolis after practicing for almost a decade in Baltimore. After graduating cum laude from law school, Brooke’s first job out of law school was a judicial law clerk at the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County. Brooke’s current practice focuses on assisting businesses with transactional and corporate matters while also serving individuals with their estate planning and administration needs. Brooke is recognized as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyer magazine and serves as a Board Member for The Bill Sweeney Perinatal Care Fund, Inc.
Frank P. Lozupone, III, 32
Bowman Jarashow Law, LLC, Annapolis
410-267-9545; bowmanjarashow.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Civil Litigation The firm says: Frank is a young and growing lawyer, rooting his practice in civil litigation and business matters in Anne Arundel County. His client focused approach and ability to listen, digest and provide assertive advice to clients. Not all litigation and legal dilemmas are created equal, and Mr. Lozupone provides creative and effective solutions for his clients. His perseverance and work ethic combined with his legal skill set make him an effective and affable lawyer for all clients.
Gary Damico, 32
Evans Law, Annapolis
410-431-2599; msevanslaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Real Estate The firm says: Gary has worked for Evans Law for over two years and during that time he has mastered real estate transactional work. He is in charge of our transactional real estate practice. He routinely handles complex purchase and sale matters for buyers and sellers on both residential and commercial transactions. He also is adept at handling complex residential and commercial leasing issues for landlords. Beyond that, he assists our clients on property matters such as easement issues, property line disputes, and the like. His ability to expertly handle these transactions while connecting personally with our clients has made him an invaluable addition to Evans Law.
Carla Magnaye Poole, 36
Hillman, Brown & Darrow PA, Annapolis
410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Domestic Violence/Criminal Defense The firm says: Carla naturally connects with each and every one of her clients and is keenly aware of their needs throughout her representation of them. Having a background in law enforcement and public safety has helped cultivate her ability to work in high-pressure situations and to help clients who are often experiencing the toughest times in their lives. She has quickly gained the respect of her peers, who are impressed by her well-rounded knowledge of the law and by her practical approach to each case.
Sarah Brown, 30
Hillman, Brown & Darrow PA, Annapolis
410-263-3131; hbdlaw.com
Alma mater: American University Washington College of Law Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Sarah is a zealous advocate for her clients. She not only provides superb legal representation, but she empowers her clients to stand up for themselves during one of the most stressful times of their lives. Sarah maintains a heavy case load and still finds time to actively engage in community groups to change and better Annapolis. She is the Vice President of GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis and of the Annapolis Rotaract Club. Sarah is a passionate young woman who is not only a rising leader in the Annapolis legal community, but also in the Annapolis community as a whole.
Matthew Bernhardt, 38
Council Baradel, Annapolis
410-268-6600; councilbaradel.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law & USNA Legal specialty: Personal Injury/Family Law/Litigation The firm says: Matthew is client-focused and results driven, with a well-rounded practice, dedicated to helping individuals achieve their best possible legal outcome. As a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Matthew completed two deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism as a Surface Warfare Officer. While maintaining his robust legal practice in Annapolis, Matthew continues to serve as a Commander in the active Navy Reserves and recently completed a deployment to East Africa in 2020 as the Deputy Director for Operations for the Combined Joint Task Force–Horn of Africa to enhance stability and prosperity in East Africa.
Lee Ann Adams, 33
Council Baradel, Annapolis
410-268-6600; councilbaradel.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland Law School Legal specialty: Real Estate/Business Law The firm says: Lee Ann focuses on assisting individuals with their home buying and selling process through the firm’s in-house title company, and counsels businesses during all stages of its lifecycle, from formation to dissolution. Lee Ann was named partner of Council Baradel in 2021 while maintaining a fast-growing practice. Lee Ann makes a positive impact on her clients by supporting them during what is probably the single largest investment they will ever make.
Elizabeth Pfenson, 32
Council Baradel, Annapolis
410-268-6600; councilbaradel.com
Alma mater: Notre Dame Law School Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Elizabeth maintains a substantial family law practice, and was named partner of Council Baradel in 2021, becoming the youngest ever at age 32. Her clients appreciate her attention to detail and thorough approach, as she assists clients with their sensitive and complex financial and family situations. Knowledgeable, yet down to earth, Elizabeth understands that, when clients work with her, they are often experiencing some of the most difficult moments in their lives. She seeks to lend her strength, knowledge, and professionalism to her clients as they navigate the intersection between their personal lives and the legal system.
Jack Beckett, 36
Franke Beckett LLC, Annapolis
410-263-4876; fredfranke.com
Alma mater: Washington & Lee University School of Law Legal specialty: Fiduciary Litigation The firm says: Jack has been lead attorney on various fiduciary litigation matters at the trial level and on appeal. Additionally, he regularly creates Wills and Trusts and other planning documents for clients, often involving sensitive family concerns or complex tax issues. He has taught continuing legal education courses for lawyers with the Maryland State Bar Association and courses for Judges with the Maryland Judicial Institute. He has published articles in the Maryland Bar Journal. Jack is currently pursuing an Executive LLM in Tax at NYU Law School.
Deborah Howe, 29
Franke Beckett LLC, Annapolis
410-263-4876; fredfranke.com
Alma mater: Washington & Lee University School of Law Legal specialty: Estate Planning The firm says: Deb is the primary attorney creating estate planning documents for many of the Firm’s clients. These plans are tailor-made to meet each client’s specific needs. The resulting documents may involve complex tax-sensitive provisions for high net-worth individuals and couples and/or planning to protect young children or vulnerable adults. Deb also has participated in fiduciary litigation, handling discovery issues, witness examinations, and argument before the court. Deb is active with the Maryland Bar Association in its legislative initiatives on remote document execution. She has co-authored a law review article on the Maryland Trust Act.
Harrison Bliss, 31
Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, Columbia
410-995-5800; darslaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Litigation The firm says: Harrison’s law practice includes a broad range of litigation matters focusing on business and employment litigation. He has also represented hospitals and nursing facilities in guardianship proceedings and general tort litigation. During law school, Harrison advocated for discharge upgrades and service-connected disability ratings for veterans of the United States Armed Forces who were injured during their time in service. Harrison loves giving back to the community; he actively fundraises for Gilchrist Hospice in Howard County, and supports Wills for Heroes where he provides his services by offering estate documents to first responders free of charge.
Laura Thomas, 37
Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, Columbia
410-995-5800; darslaw.com
Alma mater: The Catholic University, Columbus School of Law Legal specialty: Estate Planning The firm says: Laura focuses her practice on developing comprehensive estate plans to help clients preserve their legacies and has a particular affinity for assisting multi-generational business owners protect the businesses they spent lifetimes building. Laura serves on various professional committees, including the Maryland State Bar Association Estate and Trust Section Council Legislative Committee and the American Bar Association Young Lawyers’ Division Real Property, Trust, and Estate Committee. Laura supports her community by serving on Howard County Conservancy and OhanaHC committees. Laura currently serves on the board for the Howard County Estate Planning Council. In her free time she also enjoys coaching lacrosse.
Nora Murphy, 31
Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, Columbia
410-995-5800; darslaw.com
Alma mater: George Washington University Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Nora is extraordinarily intuitive and autonomous, identifying the individualized needs of her clients and anticipating the best “next steps” in achieving their goals. Nora has a passion for helping others and is an exceptional team player. While Nora concentrates in family law matters, her broad-based knowledge in the area of domestic-relations has been invaluable in supporting both fiduciary litigation and estate planning matters. Nora’s outstanding legal knowledge and work ethic are perfect complements to the kindness and genuineness she extends to her clients, lending comfort and compassion during what might otherwise prove to be an overwhelming life event.
Richard Anthony Pasciuto, 37
Byrd & Byrd LLC Attorneys At Law, Bowie
301-464-7448; byrdandbyrd.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Elder Law/Estate Planning The firm says: As grandson of the Honorable John F. Kelly, Maryland District Court Judge, Tony has been learning to “think like a lawyer” his entire life. He began his law career as clerk to the Honorable Nicholas E. Rattal, Circuit Court of Maryland, followed by several years as a dedicated Public Defender. He is an active member of both the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the PG County Senior Provider Network. He frequently volunteers as a speaker on topics such as Estate Planning and Medicaid. B&B is proud of the time Tony takes with clients, providing excellent legal advice, good counsel, and helping them find the right solutions.
Joshua D. Winger, 39
Byrd & Byrd LLC Attorneys At Law, Bowie
301-464-7448; byrdandbyrd.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Elder Law/Estate Planning The firm says: Josh is the Byrd & Byrd “go to” for double-checking rules and statutory contents in a rush. His generous sharing of a phenomenal memory for details and specific requirements is admired by everyone in the office to confirm initial perceptions or to assist with case strategy. A popular presenter, Josh volunteers for multiple outreaches. He is convinced that knowledge is power and can be the pathway through which seniors can learn to advocate for themselves. Josh is a true friend to Senior Citizens of Maryland and to the entire community as their advocate for justice.
Catherine Hopkin, 39
Yumkas Vidmar Sweeney & Mulrenin, LLC, Annapolis
410-571-2780; yvslaw.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland Legal specialty: Bankruptcy and Reorganization The firm says: Catherine is a leader in the bankruptcy and reorganization field. Ms. Hopkin serves as the current President of the Maryland Bankruptcy Bar Association (the “BBA”) and is frequently involved in high-profile bankruptcy and insolvency matters. Representing both creditors and debtors, she was one of the youngest practitioners in Maryland recognized by Chambers USA and has been ranked since 2016. She also has been recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2013 and served recently as a board member of the Pro Bono Resource Center, demonstrating a commitment to pro bono work.
Reuben Wolfson, 38
Smithey Law Group LLC, Annapolis
410-881-8190; smitheylaw.com
Alma mater: University of Miami School of Law Legal specialty: Labor and Employment The firm says: Reuben is a partner at Smithey Law Group LLC handling all phases of employment law from meeting with prospective clients through the litigation process in administrative agencies, state, and federal court. Reuben’s practice focuses on discrimination, harassment, and wage and hour law issues. He also counsels employers and employees on employment contracts and restrictive covenants. Reuben is a member of the Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association and sits on its Bench Bar Committee. Prior to joining Smithey Law Group LLC, Reuben was a member of the Labor and Employment law practice group at Rifkin Weiner Livingston LLC in Annapolis.
Veronica Yu Welsh, 32
Offit Kurman, P.A., Baltimore
410-209-6400; offitkurman.com
Alma mater: American University Washington College of Law Legal specialty: Labor and Employment/Employee Mobility and Trade Secret Protection/Civil Litigation The firm says: Veronica is a talented lawyer that works very hard to ensure the best outcomes for her clients. Whether it is working through a complex question of law or helping a client consider their many options, Veronica is a consummate problem solver who puts her clients first. Veronica is the type of lawyer that clients can trust to help them navigate the legal minefield. She is also well-regarded by her peers at our firm.
Janine Wolford, 39
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker, Annapolis
410-934-3900; mdswlaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Ms. Wolford’s interest in family law began in law school when she practiced as a Rule 16 attorney representing the underserved population of Baltimore City in domestic matters. She practiced general litigation for a number of years and has since decided to focus her practice in the area of family law. She is client focused, working closely with her clients in achieving their goals, while demonstrating the necessary empathy during this often difficult and taxing process on families. Her years of experience in the field of litigation and family practice allow her to be skilled in counseling, negotiating, and litigating.
Steven Brown, 35
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker, Annapolis
410-934-3900; mdswlaw.com
Alma mater: Florida State University College of Law Legal specialty: Employment Law The firm says: Steven’s work reflects his exceptional contributions to the benefit of his clients and the community in which he practices. At the start of 2020, Steven brought his employment law expertise to the Annapolis office of McCallister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker. With the onset of the pandemic, Steven expanded his practice to become a “go-to” resource for guiding businesses through federal, state, and local COVID regulations. In addition, Steven volunteers his time as vice-chair of the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, as trustee to the board of trustees of the Anne Arundel County Bar Association, and for the Anne Arundel County Community College.
Benjamin Howard Meredith, 36
Iliff, Meredith, Wildberger & Brennan, P.C., Pasadena
410-685-1166; ilimer.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury The firm says: Benjamin is an accomplished attorney. Ben’s practice consists of representation of clients victimized by medical malpractice as well as representation clients who have suffered other types of personal injuries. Ben regularly represents clients who have been injured in automobile accidents. Ben is a very active member of the legal community. Ben has served on the Board of Trustees of the Anne Arundel Bar Association, where he was liaison to the Maryland State Bar Association. Ben has also served on other committees of the Anne Arundel Bar Association. Ben is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association Ethics Committee. Ben is also engaged in the community at large, as he serves as a Board member of a non-profit organization and is otherwise involved in civic and philanthropic activities.
Meagan Borgerson, 33
Kagan Stern Marinello & Beard, LLC, Annapolis
410-216-7900; kaganstern.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law Legal specialty: Civil Litigation/Business Law The firm says: Ms. Borgerson joined Kagan Stern and began her career in private practice in 2014, after clerking for the Honorable Clayton Greene on the Maryland Court of Appeals. In her nearly seven years with the firm, she has steadfastly demonstrated the ability to handle the firm’s most complex civil litigation and to quickly garner the trust and confidence of the firm’s clients. Ms. Borgerson also routinely serves as outside counsel to the firm’s business clients with little-to-no oversight needed. In her relatively short time in private practice, Ms. Borgerson has already established herself as the type of reliable, competent, and successful attorney our clients need, as demonstrated by her selection in 2020 as a “Rising Star” by Maryland Super Lawyers.
Shelby Whale, 26
Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC, Bowie
301-850-7349; rghlawyers.com
Alma mater: Michigan State University College of Law Legal specialty: Family Law The firm says: Shelby is a smart, conscientious young attorney who is in the early stages of her career and focuses her practice in the area of Family Law. She is a strong advocate for her clients. She quickly identifies issues and works hard to resolve them. Shelby is also an effective legal writer. She is active with the Maryland Hispanic Bar Association, as an interviewer/evaluator of candidates who are seeking judicial appointments across the State of Maryland. In May 2019, Shelby graduated, with honors, from Michigan State University College of Law. She is an important part of our law firm and we are lucky to have her.
Eastern Shore
Adam Lynn, 38
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker, Easton
410-820-0222; mdswlaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Business Law/Financial Transactions The firm says: Adam is an attorney with extensive business law experience; he represents clients in commercial litigation, commercial law, general business matters, mergers and acquisitions, transactions, and navigating creditors through bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings. His practice focuses on serving the needs of financial institutions, businesses, and individuals with sophisticated needs in real estate, business, family law, and commercial litigation matters. Adam’s practice areas and areas of expertise are exceptionally diverse.
Sarah Baugh, 34
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker, Easton
410-820-0222; mdswlaw.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland School of Law Legal specialty: Corporate/Real Estate/Estate Planning The firm says: Sarah advises and assists clients on a wide range of business, real estate, and planning matters. Sarah serves as outside counsel to both local and national businesses, bringing a pragmatic approach to the resolution of both sophisticated and routine issues, from corporate governance to contract review to mergers and acquisitions. In addition to her robust corporate practice, Sarah assists in managing the Firm’s title group and has significant experience representing clients on all aspects of real estate transactions, including drafting and negotiating sales agreements, conducting settlements and preparation of ancillary agreements related to such transactions. With a background in estate planning and estate administration, Sarah is accustomed to working with small business owners on their succession and estate planning to meet their diverse needs.
Elysha Carouge, 37
McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker, Easton
410-820-0222; mdswlaw.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland School of Law Legal specialty: Business & Commercial Law/Banking & Finance The firm says: Elysha represents companies across a broad spectrum of business matters and strategic planning. She provides outside corporate counsel services to in-house legal departments of companies both private and publicly held, providing assistance with all manner of corporate functions in the U.S. as well as foreign jurisdictions, including corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, restructurings and financings, and the drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements. Elysha takes pride in the long-term relationships she develops with her clients, derives great satisfaction in navigating complex issues to deliver results, and serves her client’s best interests.
Genevieve Macfarlane, 32
Stevens Palmer, LLC, Centreville
410-758-4600; spp-law.com
Alma mater: University of Maryland Law Legal specialty: Real Estate & Land Use
The firm says: Ms. Macfarlane is committed to excellence in her practice areas of Land Use and Real Estate. She offers sophisticated representation to a variety of clients from developers to homeowners. Ms. Macfarlane has been peer-selected as both a Leading Lawyer for What’s Up? Eastern Shore for 2020-2021 and as a Super Lawyer Rising Star for 2021.
Justin Hoyt, 38
Stevens Palmer, LLC, Centreville
410-758-4600; spp-law.com
Alma mater: American University Washington College of Law Legal specialty: Family Law/Civil Litigation/Criminal Defense The firm says: Mr. Hoyt is detail oriented and committed to being a zealous advocate for his clients, no matter the legal issue. His experience as a prosecutor has prepared him to be a well-rounded attorney in and out of court and he is able to provide decisive, assertive, and compassionate representation. Additionally, Mr. Hoyt serves the legal community by acting as the Vice President of the Queen Anne’s County Bar Association. Mr. Hoyt has been peer-selected as both a Leading Lawyer for What’s Up? Eastern Shore for 2020-2021 and as a Super Lawyer Rising Star for 2021.
David Baines, 33
Ewing, Dietz, Fountain & Kalduis, PA, Easton
410-822-1988; ewingdietz.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Civil/Personal Injury The firm says: David has extensive trial experience on both the defense and plaintiff’s side. He began his legal career working as defense counsel for a large auto insurance company in which he litigated hundreds of auto accident cases. After three years of representing defendants, he switched to the plaintiff’s side and has represented people injured in auto accidents and in the workplace for the last four years. David is a passionate advocate for his clients and a talented litigator. He applies those attributes to the family law, business organization, and contract matters that he handles as well. He is very comfortable in the courtroom and has enjoyed great success in representing our firm’s clients.
Jesse Hicks, 34
Shipley Law Firm, Easton
410-822-7660; shipleyfirm.com
Alma mater: University of Connecticut Legal specialty: Criminal Defense/DUI The firm says: Mr. Hicks has demonstrated exemplary advocacy skills on behalf of our firms’ clients. His commitment to our community through volunteerism and reduced fee work typifies his dedication to the field of law and to citizens of all walks of life. Mr. Hicks possesses exceptional legal acumen, litigation prowess, and passion for the law.
Martha Effinger, 28
Parker Goodman Gordon & Hammock, Easton
410-822-1122; parkercountslaw.com
Alma mater: University of Baltimore School of Law Legal specialty: Business Transactions & Succession Planning/Estates & Trusts The firm says: Martha returned to the Shore to focus her practice on business transactions, including entity selection and formation, as well as the areas of estate planning and estate administration. Highlights from her law school career include serving as publications editor of the University of Baltimore Law Review, a member of the Royal Graham Shannonhouse III Honor Society, and as a student attorney with the University of Baltimore Community Development Clinic. She was a judicial intern with the Honorable Stephen H. Kehoe, in the Circuit Court for Talbot County and entered private practice in Baltimore upon graduation. We are thrilled to welcome Martha back to her native Talbot County to join our Firm.
Kristen Graf, 35
Parker Goodman Gordon & Hammock, Easton
410-822-1122; parkercountslaw.com
Alma mater: Syracuse University College of Law Legal specialty: Estate Planning & Estate Administration The firm says: Kristen focuses her practice in the areas of estate planning and estate and trust administration, developing and implementing comprehensive estate plans that are tailored to meet each client’s individual needs. She advises clients on issues related to asset protection, retirement assets, tax planning, and planning for beneficiaries with special circumstances. Kristen has extensive experience drafting Wills, revocable and irrevocable Trusts, and implementing asset titling strategies for a wide range of clients and has crafted complex estate plans focused on estate tax minimization for high-net-worth individuals and families. She also assists clients the administration of estates and trusts, and real estate and business transactions.
Peter Cotter, 36
Parker Goodman Gordon & Hammock, Easton
410-822-1122; parkercountslaw.com
Alma mater: SUNY Buffalo Law School Legal specialty: Litigation/ Family Law/Planning, Zoning, and Land Use/Local Government Law The firm says: For the last ten years, Peter has helped Eastern Shore residents and businesses resolve all manner of litigation issues with an emphasis on divorce. Peter’s aptitude in this regard is recognized by Judges on the Eastern Shore that routinely appoint him to represent the most vulnerable parties in divorce proceedings—minor children. Peter has extensive experience handling planning, zoning, and land use matters in litigation and administratively with county and town governments on the Mid-Shore. Peter has been a member of the Town of Easton Board of Zoning Appeals since 2012 and has served as its Chairman since 2013.
Be sure to check out the Leading Legal Professionals of 2021 Here
