Judge Stephen J. Baker Named Administrative Judge

(Annapolis, MD — May 1, 2007) District Court Judge Stephen J. Baker has been named administrative judge for District 3. Chief Judge Ben C. Clyburn of the District Court of Maryland designated Judge Baker as administrative judge effective May 1, 2007. District 3 includes Caroline, Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties.

As the administrative judge, Judge Baker is responsible for the administration of the court for District 3. He is responsible for supervision of all judges, officers, and employees of the court; the expeditious disposition of cases; control of the trial calendar; and oversight of the court’s budget and procurement functions.

Judge Baker, a graduate of Washington College, earned his law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law, and has served as an associate judge for Cecil County since 1998. He is replacing Judge James McKinney, who is retiring after 21 years of service, 17 of which he served as administrative judge.

“Judge Baker has had experience with all the key committees of the Judiciary. He has an in-depth understanding of the legal process, and is committed to making that process work better,” Judge Clyburn said. “I look forward to him following in the fine example of Judge McKinney, who was deeply committed to due process and fairness.”

A resident of Cecil County, Judge Baker said, of his appointment, that he intends to use his best effort to uphold the Court's obligation as set forth in its Mission Statement to “ensure that every case tried before it is adjudicated expeditiously, courteously, and according to law, with the fullest protection for the rights of all who are involved.”

For more information, please contact the Court Information Office at (410) 260-1488.