Special Advertising Section
Carrying on a Legacy of Service
Situated in the heart of downtown Annapolis—just steps from the courthouse—stands a historic property that has served as the office of Hillman, Brown & Darrow (HBD) since 1983. A reminder of the law firm’s longevity and steadfast service to the community, the building is perhaps as iconic as the firm itself. One of the oldest and most respected law firms in Annapolis, HBD has established itself as a trusted leader in the legal profession. And with each passing year, the highly esteemed firm continues to grow.
Founded in 1929 by the late 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. When Hillman & Brown merged with the practice of Michael P. Darrow on October 1, 1979, HBD was officially born. This year, HBD commemorates 47 years of service, and Brown celebrates his 50th anniversary of practicing law.
A full-service law firm, HBD has stood the test of time and prides itself on successfully prosecuting the needs of its clients. From seasoned partners to associates just embarking on their careers, 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.
Since 1979, HBD has grown from three to 14 attorneys who have nearly 300 years of combined experience. The attorneys have consistently received recognition for their legal achievements and earned numerous awards. They have also been listed as Leading Lawyers in What’s Up? since the inception of the survey. (Please see the sidebar for the complete list of award recipients.)
Service takes place in many arenas—from the courtroom to the boardroom to attorney-client meetings to the community as a whole. HBD is committed to giving back to the community. The attorneys have been involved in numerous community and charitable organizations, serving as directors, officers, advisors, and members, including the Anne Arundel County Public Library Foundation, the Anne Arundel County Bar Association, the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, the Second Saturday Divorce Workshop, GiGi’s Playhouse, Historic London Town and Gardens, the Severn River Association, Maryland Hall, and the White Guitar Project. They also participate in activities throughout the county and state.
Throughout the years, HBD has continued to grow and evolve—successfully adapting to meet the needs of a changing world. Looking towards the future, the firm will continue to embrace the practice of law with a spirit of enthusiasm—building upon its enduring legacy of service.
LEADING LAWYERS 2026
Brian D. Lyman – Administrative/Liquor/Hearings Law; Business Law; Construction Law; Corporate Law; Intellectual Properties/Patent Law
Carla M. Poole – Appellate Law; Domestic Violence Law; Juvenile Law
Connor M. Noel – Administrative/Liquor/Hearings Law; HOA Condominium Law
Crighton A. Chase – Criminal Law; Dispute Resolution Law; Domestic Violence Law; Juvenile Law; Mediation
Daniel J. Mellin – HOA/Condominium Law; Zoning, Planning & Land Use Law
Jonathan E. Pasterick – Business Law; Construction Law; Corporate Law; Estate Planning Law; General Practice; Real Estate Law
M. Evelyn Spurgin – Appellate Law
Marietta B. Warren – Animal/Pet Law; Appellate Law; Dispute Resolution Law; Family Law; Litigation; Mediation; Personal Injury Law
Samuel J. Brown – Administrative/Liquor/Hearings Law; Criminal Law; Family Law; General Practice; Litigation; Zoning, Planning & Land Use Law
Sarah E. Brown – Dispute Resolution Law; Domestic Violence Law; Family Law; Mediation
