Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.

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An Enduring Legacy of Success

One of the oldest and most respected law firms in Annapolis, Hillman, Brown & Darrow (HBD) has established itself as a trusted leader in the legal profession. Steeped in history, the firm’s roots in the community are deep, and its involvement is far-reaching. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Annapolis—just steps from the courthouse—HBD has occupied the same iconic building since 1983. And more than four decades later, the highly esteemed law firm continues to grow and thrive.

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 as it is known today was officially born. 

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. The firm is comprised of attorneys from all walks of life who practice in various areas and excel at providing high-quality legal services to meet their clients’ individual needs. 

One of the keys to HBD’s success is its dynamic team of attorneys—from seasoned partners to associates just embarking on their careers. Indeed, HBD recently promoted an associate to partner and recruited a new associate—a testament to the firm’s dedication to recognizing and rewarding exemplary job performance, hiring top-notch team members, and focusing on its continued growth.

Sarah E. Brown was promoted to partner on January 1, 2023. After graduating from law school, she clerked for the Honorable Cathleen M. Vitale at the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. Sarah joined HBD in December 2016, and for the past six years, she has focused on representing clients in various legal matters, including divorce, custody, support, separations, property settlements, adoptions, guardianships, landlord/tenant disputes, general civil litigation, and liquor licenses.

A lifelong Annapolitan, Sarah serves as the president of GiGi’s Playhouse and also devotes her time volunteering for various local organizations.

Katie D’Entremont, HBD’s newest associate, joined the firm in December 2022. During law school, she interned for the Honorable J. Michael Ryan at the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. 

She spent the beginning of her career representing and advising victims of intimate partner violence for the House of Ruth Maryland. Katie’s initial focus at HBD will be domestic law, peace and protective orders, criminal law, collections, and landlord/tenant work.

A native of Melrose, Massachusetts, she and her fiancé are looking forward to making Anne Arundel County their home and becoming actively involved in the community.  

Since 1979, HBD has grown from three to 13 attorneys who have nearly 300 years of combined experience, including Samuel J. Brown, Daniel J. Mellin, M. Evelyn Spurgin, Jonathan E. Pasterick, Marietta B. Warren, Crighton A. Chase, Brian D. Lyman, and Sarah E. Brown (partners); Lauren A. Torggler, Carla M. Poole, and Katie D’Entremont (associates); and H. Winship Wheatley, III and Michael P. Darrow (of counsel). 

The attorneys at HBD have consistently received recognition for their achievements and have earned numerous awards. In addition, they have been listed as Leading Lawyers in What’s Up? since the inception of the survey. This year, Lauren A. Torggler, Carla M. Poole, Sarah E. Brown, and Katie D’Entremont were recognized as Up & Coming Lawyers in What’s Up?.

Practice Areas

  • Accidents, Workers’ Compensation & Personal Injury
  • Liquor Licenses
  • Appeals
  • Business
  • Collections
  • Construction
  • Consumer Protection
  • Criminal & Juvenile
  • DUI & Traffic
  • Divorce & Family
  • Adoption
  • Property & Real Estate
  • Trusts, Estates, Wills & Probate Law

Throughout the years, HBD has continued to grow and evolve. As the firm looks towards the future, the next generation of attorneys stands poised to follow in the footsteps of their esteemed predecessors—solidifying the legacy of success that was established by the founding partners.

Client Testimonials

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the way you and your team showed up for me yesterday. I don’t know the words to express how grateful I am, but I will remember forever.”  – satisfied client

“You have been a port in the storm and a comfort to all of us. You are simply the best!” – satisfied client

2022-2023 Winners

Brian D. Lyman Administrative Law/ Liquor Laws/Hearings; Business Law; Construction Law; Intellectual Properties/Patent Law

Carla M. Poole Juvenile Law

Crighton A. Chase Criminal Law; Domestic Violence Law; Juvenile Law

Daniel J. Mellin HOA/Condominium Law; Real Estate Law

M. Evelyn Spurgin Appellate Law; Personal Injury Law

Jonathan E. Pasterick Business Law; Construction Law; General Practice; Real Estate Law; Trusts, Estates, Wills & Probate Law

Marietta B. Warren Family Law

Samuel J. Brown Domestic Violence Law; Family Law; General Practice

Sarah E. Brown Domestic Violence Law; Family Law

Hillman, Brown & Darrow, P.A.

221 Duke of Gloucester St.

Annapolis, MD 21401

410-263-3131 | www.hbdlaw.com