Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.

Successfully Adapting to a Changing World

One of the oldest and most respected law firms in Annapolis, Hillman, Brown & Darrow (HBD) has built an impeccable reputation — solidifying its status as a leader in the legal profession and establishing lasting legacy. 

Founded in 1929 by Noah A. Hillman, the rich history of HBD dates back to 1976 when Samuel J. Brown began his practice with Noah and his son, Richard Hillman. It was not until October 1, 1979, when Hillman & Brown merged with the practice of Michael P. Darrow that HBD was officially born.

A full-service law firm, HBD has stood the test of time and prides itself on its longevity, its stability, its consistent service to its clients, and its role as a pillar of the community. Since 1979, the firm has grown from three to 13 attorneys who specialize in various areas of practice and have nearly 300 years of combined experience. Throughout the years, HBD has continued to evolve and has successfully adapted to meet the needs of a changing world. 

Indeed, HBD’s ability to adapt has been vital during the COVID-19 health crisis. To meet the challenges presented by the pandemic, the attorneys customize their services to address each client’s individual needs. They offer in-person meetings in accordance with state and CDC guidelines, including masking, social distancing, and sanitizing, as well as virtual meetings. Client satisfaction is one of HBD’s top priorities, and the attorneys are committed to providing the highest level of service, experience, and professionalism.

Not only has HBD adjusted to the pandemic, but it has also continued to expand. The firm recently recruited two new attorneys, hired additional paralegals, and promoted an associate to partnership.

This year HBD dedicates the Leading Lawyers feature to Michael P. Darrow, who after 41 years decided to take senior status as of counsel, effective December 31, 2020. A prominent attorney, Darrow enjoyed taking on the most difficult cases. His family roots in Anne Arundel County are deep. A member of the Baldwin family, a mainstay in the county, Darrow has been involved in nearly every aspect of the construction industry. He developed an interest in construction law and became one of the preeminent litigators of mechanic’s liens in the state. Darrow has built a successful career and is adept at shifting between roles as a litigator and a mediator. He has earned numerous awards and honors and is actively involved in the community.

Darrow is enjoying the next chapter of his life and recently took a few moments to reflect on his career path and share his experiences at HBD.

How did you and Sam meet/connect to create HBD?

I think it was karma. We were introduced by a fellow attorney. Originally, we just shared office space, but it quickly became a partnership. I had received a full-time job offer from one of the largest law firms in the county, which I worked for as a law clerk after I passed the bar. When we were at the celebratory dinner at Wagon Wheel in Arnold (one month before Sam and I met), I was fired—before my first day—because I suggested that my salary was a bit low. After that crushing blow, I moved on, and the rest is history.

What was the best part about being a partner? 

I love walking into new situations, and when introductions are made, I would often hear, “Oh yes, you’re a partner at HBD!” One older gentleman client said, “HBD has handled my legal issues all the way back to Noah Hillman in 1969.” That was the year that I graduated from high school!

In addition to Darrow’s wealth of knowledge and legal prowess, he also brought fun, laughter, and enjoyment to the practice of law. Prior to Darrow taking senior status as of counsel, the firm asked Brian D. Lyman to accept partner status and recently hired two new associates, Carla M. Poole and Michael G. Von Sas. 

Both attorneys served as judicial law clerks to circuit court judges in Anne Arundel and Caroline counties and had work experience before practicing law.Von Sas has had many life experiences during his four years away from school and law. Poole served as a member of a police department while navigating her way through college and law school. Indeed, HBD’s continued growth reaffirms its dedication to its clients and its commitment to serving the community.

HBD’s Attorneys

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

Carla M. Poole

Michael G. Von Sas

H. Winship Wheatley III

Practice Areas

• Family Law, Divorce

• Alcoholic Beverage Licenses

• Construction Law & Mechanics Liens

• Corporations & Business Associations

• Wills, Trusts & Estates

• Accidents & Workers’ Compensation

• Appeals

• Business

• Collections

• Zoning

• Criminal & Traffic

• Real Estate & Land Use

Client Testimonials

“I was very impressed with the entire staff at Hillman, Brown & Darrow... The paralegals, and even the receptionist, all remembered who I was when I would call or stop by, and they were very helpful and courteous.

– Satisfied client

“If I had continued with any of the other law firms I would’ve been broke and fighting to see my children just as {they} had spelled out…… neither of which had imagination or genuine empathy to me or my family, only getting in and out of the process in what seemed like the most protracted and financially exhausting route possible…. Another very important part of the equation was the cost. Because {HBD} was able to complete this process in what seemed instantaneous, it cost me probably one fifth of the estimates from the other law firms. Sam read the situation instantly, had an escape strategy that he held me to and restored my Family, finances and sleep. Thank you very much {HBD}, you literally saved my life.”

– Satisfied client

221 Duke of Gloucester Street | Annapolis, Maryland 21401 | 410-263-3131 | www.hbdlaw.com