LAW DAY—ADVANCING THE RULE OF LAW NOW By Mariela D’Alessio
The Baltimore County Bar Association hosted its annual Law Day event on May 3, 2021 via Zoom. Law Day is typically held on May 1 of each year and is a celebration of the role of law in our society. This year’s theme was Advancing the Rule of Law Now. The rule of law is the foundation of rights and liberties afforded to all in America. It is a reminder that we the people share equally in the responsibility to promote the rule of law, defend liberty, and pursue justice in both times of calm and unrest alike. Court of Appeals Chief Judge, Hon. Mary Ellen Barbera, was the keynote speaker for the event. Judge Barbera was tasked with leading the State of Maryland and its court system through the pandemic. Judge Barbera tackled these unprecedented times with the same demeanor and approach that has made her such a distinguished and well-respected Judge, member of the Bar, and individual. Judge Barbera took into consideration the safety and wellbeing of all court staff, attorneys, and the public at large, all while upholding the rule of law. Judge Barbera’s presentation focused on attorney’s promoting access to justice and respect for the rule of law in light of the pandemic. Please visit the BCBA YouTube channel to watch the entire Law Day celebration, including Judge Barbera’s full presentation.
THE ADVOCATE
Each year fellow BCBA members nominate an individual to receive the Judith P. Ritchey and Law Day Awards. The criteria for the Judith P. Richey Award is: (1) Bar Association member, (2) significant constructive impact on Bar Association activities during the past year, (3) largely unrecognized for these efforts, and (4) adding to the proficiency, respect and reputation of the Bar Association. The criteria for the Law Day Award is: (1) Bar Association Member, (2) impact on the status or administration of the law, (3) participated in bar related activities over the course of several years, and (4) service to the Bar Association over the course of several years. Kimberly S. Barranco presented this year’s Judith P. Ritchey Award posthumously to the Honorable Alexander N. ‘Sandy’ Williams, which was accepted by her husband, Dana O. Williams. Rebecca A. Fleming presented this year’s Law Day Award to the award recipient, Edward J. Gillis. Congratulations again to this year’s Law Day awards recipients.
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