2026 Advocacy Impact Report by Maryland Bar Journal

2026

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

Advocacy

IMPACT REPORT

msba.org/advocacy

Table of Contents 1

President's Message

Member Expertise Drives Advocacy

2026 Legislative Victories: Savings and Security

Federal Advocacy: Protecting Our Courts and the Rule of Law

Community Impact, Education, and Access to Justice

Courts, Judicial Independence, and Rulemaking

Looking Ahead: Legal Summit Insights and Future Advocacy

20 Acknowledgments 21

Advocacy Resources

President's Message

When I took office as MSBA President, I promised to strengthen our association, our community, the rule of law, and protections for our jurists. I am proud to say we delivered. This report reflects the progress of MSBA’s advocacy through a challenging year marked by attacks on the courts and state budget deficits. Together, we preserved court security and access, protected law firms and businesses, prevented professional services fees and taxes, safeguarded civil legal aid, and upheld the rule of law. We kept our members connected through continuing legal education (CLE) and rule of law programs, advocacy tools, and legislative updates, mobilizing around our U.S. v. Russell brief, federal rulemaking comments, and in-person advocacy on Capitol Hill and in Annapolis.

“We must do everything we can to build public trust for both the judiciary and for lawyers.”

We continued to invest in the process of —MSBA PAST PRESIDENT MARISA TRASATTI judicial evaluation and appointment and rulemaking across AI, legal technology, expanded voir dire, pro bono, and continuing legal education. We explored practical, ethical ways to expand access to justice through a task force focused on Innovations in Tiered Legal Services, in partnership with Maryland’s Access to Justice Commission and the Maryland Judiciary. I led a Strategic Planning Task Force to shape the next five years of MSBA’s growth, focused on value, access, and innovation. We celebrated our achievements at MSBA’s Legal Summit, where we hosted high-level legislative panels and welcomed Governor Wes Moore, who delivered an inspiring keynote and administered the oath of office. All of these steps ensure that MSBA remains nimble, inclusive, and aligned with the evolving needs of Maryland’s lawyers across every practice setting. I invite every member to stay engaged as we strengthen the rule of law and continue building an MSBA that reflects the strength of our community. Sincerely,

Marisa A. Trasatti Immediate Past President (2025-2026) Maryland State Bar Association

Member Expertise Drives Advocacy MSBA 2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT DASHBOARD REACH AND ACTION

+2,500 Bills

ANALYZED

FEDERAL ADVOCACY

Defended Judicial Independence: Filed U.S. v. Russell Amicus Brief

TOTAL SIGN-ONS:

LEGISLATIVE WINS

Defeated Unreasonable Land Records Fee

Against Attorneys

(2nd Consecutive Year)

Bills

39 law firms

Association-Level

183 attorneys

Prevented Taxes

MONITORED AT

Pieces of

Testimony or Advice DELIVERED AT

Association-Level

Legal Practice Areas MOBILIZED

(Members Sections and Committees Provided Expertise) 2

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

on the Legal Profession

Protected Client Confidentiality and Ethical Standards: Filed Comments on DOJ Rulemaking TOTAL SIGN-ONS:

19 law firms 172 attorneys

+ Modernized Business Efficiency, Improving State Revenue

+ Strengthened Court Security and Threat Investigations

MSBA's Advocacy Team reviews state and federal legislation each year and mobilizes members with specialized expertise to develop and respond to legislation through practice-area Sections and Committees. By connecting with representatives from the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches, and advocacy partners including the Maryland Access to Justice Commission (A2JC) and local and specialty bar associations, MSBA protects the legal profession and the rule of law, preserves the integrity of the judicial system, and ensures access to justice. SPECIFICALLY, MSBA: •

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Shapes advocacy priorities through MSBA's Advocacy Program, with approval by the Board of Governors. Takes association-wide positions through recommendations from our Laws Committee on issues that have a broad impact on the legal profession.

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Develops specialized positions through the expertise of various Section councils on bills that directly impact specific practice areas.

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Drafts and amends bills with legislators that have a broad impact on the legal profession.

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Provides expert testimony, feedback, and technical assistance to legislative committees through our members.

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Delivers high-quality continuing legal education (CLE), advocacy programming, and content that connects members with regular legislative and statutory updates.

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Mobilizes and informs members and the public through legislative tracking, grassroots action alerts, and member-wide advocacy campaigns.

UNIFYING FOR CIVIL JUSTICE: MSBA & MARYLAND ACCESS TO JUSTICE COMMISSION PARTNERSHIP AND ADVOCACY A PARTNERSHIP FOR SYSTEMIC REFORM Equal justice remains out of reach for hundreds of thousands of low- and moderate-income Marylanders who cannot afford counsel. With no guaranteed right to an attorney in civil cases, hundreds of thousands of vulnerable Marylanders face high-stakes disputes alone, involving essential needs like housing security, economic stability, and protection from domestic violence. A2J COMMISSION HISTORY Established in 2008 by Court of Appeals Chief Judge Robert M. Bell, the Maryland Access to Justice Commission (A2JC) sunset in 2014, revived in 2015, and was adopted by MSBA in 2018. Now "powered by the MSBA," A2JC expands statewide civil justice access aligned with MSBA’s mission. VISION AND CORE STRATEGIES FOR CHANGE A2JC envisions an accessible, equitable civil justice system for all Marylanders, driven by four core strategies: Uniting Changemakers, Cultivating Expertise, Catalyzing Innovation, and Driving Reform.

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

A2JC CORE ADVOCACY PRIORITIES AND SUCCESSES Through coalition leadership and thought leadership, A2JC has achieved major victories across three highpriority areas:

•

Right to Access Counsel in Evictions (ACE): As lead champion of Maryland’s ACE program, A2JC helped resolve 9,100+ cases—keeping 21,000+ residents (including 9,100 children) housed. Generating a $3 return per $1 spent, ACE saved $46.7 million in state and local resources.

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The 2026 final Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force Report, led by A2JC Executive Director and outgoing Chair Reena Shah, provided a roadmap transitioning operations to the Department of Housing and Community Development while establishing pathways to permanent funding.

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Increasing Civil Legal Aid Funding: Partnering with the Maryland Legal Services Corporation (MLSC) and civil legal aid providers, A2JC secured an additional $95 million over the past five years to expand access to civil legal aid and ACE funding.

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Eviction Data Dashboard: To resolve fragmented legal data, A2JC created internal dashboards and championed legislation mandating a statewide Eviction Data Dashboard, now hosted by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

2026 Legislative Victories: Savings and Security "Unregulated and unpredictable fees significantly impact the ability and pace of law firms and legal service providers to continue serving clients as well as those individuals and businesses trying to resolve legal matters on their own." —MSBA ADVOCACY DIRECTOR SHAOLI SARKAR, TESTIFYING IN SUPPORT OF HB 576/SB 425

During Maryland’s 2026 Legislative Session, lawmakers tackled a growing state budget deficit and finalized a broad range of bills including energy relief, affordability, immigration enforcement and state cooperation. MSBA remained a steady partner, advancing and securing passage of several bills. MSBA’s ongoing advocacy protects our members and supports their businesses through a strategic focus on enhancing competitiveness and profitability. As Maryland continues to project significant budget deficits in future years, MSBA will push back against any new revenue models that include unreasonable taxes and fees. 2026 association priorities include: •

Opposing taxes and fees on professional services and promoting smart business policies

•

Promoting court security and access

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Upholding the rule of law and administration of justice

Here are the results of several key bills that impact the profession: PROTECTING THE LEGAL PROFESSION THROUGH ECONOMIC ADVOCACY DIGITAL LAND RECORDS FEE – DEFEATED 2025 - 2026: The ability to access public records is a vital component of legal practice. MSBA has protected law firms and attorneys against multiple proposals from the Maryland State Archives for unregulated and unpredictable fees to access digital land records. MSBA’s opposition protected members and firms that routinely rely on the records from significant fees, with estimated savings of over $100,000 in annual costs for mid-to-large firms. This year, MSBA continued to push back through support for HB 576/SB 425 that would regulate fees by State Archives, including land records. While the bills did not move out of committee, MSBA significantly prevented any new fees or paywalls related to land records.

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

EXPEDITED FILING HB 1346:

“The bill solves current pain points for Maryland businesses in critical transactions that are essential for business growth, including capital-raising transactions or mergers and acquisitions.” —TREY HILBERG, MSBA BUSINESS LAW SECTION COUNCIL MEMBER, TESTIFYING IN SUPPORT OF HB 1346

Photo courtesy of Governor Wes Moore's office.

TAXES ON LEGAL SERVICES OR BUSINESSES – DEFEATED 2020 – 2026: For several years, lawmakers have considered professional services and business taxes that threatened legal services. MSBA successfully defeated a 6% proposal (2020) and 5% proposal (2024) that would directly impact every Maryland attorney and law firm through increased operational costs and decreased competitiveness. Our strong opposition led to legal services being excluded from a proposed 2025 tax that would implement new taxes on routine law firm business-to-business (B2B) services. MSBA worked to significantly narrow the proposed tax to certain IT, software, and data services only, saving firms over $944 million collectively in expected B2B revenue from the first year. This sustained advocacy allowed MSBA to prevent the introduction of any 2026 tax proposals that would target legal services. This multi-year advocacy has protected clients from a 2.5% to 6% price increase and preserved our members’ competitiveness. BUSINESS EFFICIENCY AND STATE REVENUE – PASSED (HB 1346): In partnership with its Business Law Section, MSBA developed and supported legislation establishing a one-hour expedited filing fee for certain businesses beginning on January 1, 2028, modernizing corporate processes and boosting state revenue. COURT SECURITY, ACCESS, AND JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION COURT SECURITY STANDARDS – PASSED (HB 492/SB 544): MSBA championed minimum security standards for all Maryland courthouses to promote the safety of our legal community and all individuals who enter courts. The Judiciary also allocated funds to assist local jurisdictions in meeting standards.

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

THREAT INVESTIGATIONS – PASSED (HB 1030/SB 634): MSBA supported expanding the role of the Office of the State Prosecutor to investigate a threat made against a judge or judge-elect, guaranteeing specialized, impartial investigation for threats against judicial officers. JUDICIAL FACILITY ARREST LIMITATIONS – FAILED (HB 309/SB 988): A2JC advocated to preserve neutrality of access to judicial facilities by prohibiting stops, detentions, and arrests for civil offenses within a judicial facility, with limited exceptions. A2JC noted that the bill would protect individual access to courts without fear of arrest and preserve an individual’s ability to access essential services within courthouses. PROTECTING PERSONAL INFORMATION – FAILED (SB 121, SB 632): MSBA provided informational testimony to legislators considering privacy protections for publicfacing attorneys and elected officials. While the measures did not pass, MSBA will continue to engage on privacy-related bills involving the legal profession.

“Maryland already is one of the top five most costly states to transfer property and to own real property. This is just going to trickle down to the customers and the clients, whether it’s residential or commercial.” —SHAWN GOLDFADEN, MSBA REAL PROPERTY SECTION PAST CHAIR, IN OPPOSITION TO LAND RECORDS FEES

UPHOLDING THE RULE OF LAW AND ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE YOUTH CHARGING REFORM AND DETENTION – PASSED (SB 323): The bill directs more criminal cases to juvenile court rather than automatically charging juveniles as adults, and was amended to incorporate SB 296, which MSBA supported, providing limits on juvenile contact with incarcerated adults in detention. The new safeguards preserve the safety of vulnerable youths and focus on compassionate treatment and rehabilitation. VIOLATIONS OF CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS – PASSED (HB 351/SB 346): In line with our commitment to supporting the U.S. Constitution and the fair administration of justice, MSBA provided advice and proposed amendments on legislation that allow individuals in Maryland to sue if they believe their constitutional rights have been violated by a federal officer acting under the authority of law.

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT AGREEMENTS – PASSED (HB 444/SB 245): A2JC supported these bills to prevent 287(g) immigration enforcement agreements between local law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement and also stand up for the rule of law. They oppose racial profiling, maintain government accountability, and uphold due process norms, all of which are cornerstones of preserving the rule of law and advancing access to justice. ESTATE AND TRUST, FAMILY, AND REAL PROPERTY LAW FIDUCIARY ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE – PASSED (HB 65/SB 131): The bill clarifies uncertainty about whether the attorney-client privilege applies to a fiduciary who seeks advice and counsel, through codification that a communication between an attorney and a client that acts as a fiduciary is subject to attorney-client privilege. The new law eases fiduciary litigation, reducing time and legal expenses for parties. TRANSFER-ON-DEATH DEED – PASSED (HB 738/SB 651): Legislators voted to simplify estate planning and property transfer at death through this bill, allowing a property owner to designate a beneficiary to receive real property

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

upon death, without probate, while retaining ownership and control during the owner’s lifetime. This shift in property transfer protects vulnerable homeowners and promotes housing stability and access to justice. PROTECTIVE ORDERS – DURATION AND RELIEF – PASSED (HB 497): The bill lengthens time between a temporary protective order hearing and a final protective order hearing for up to fourteen days, bringing Maryland in line with many other jurisdictions with a two-week window to obtain legal representation and present a more comprehensive case. BANKRUPTCY EXEMPTIONS – PASSED (SB 939): This bill increases the exemption for owner-occupied residential real property in bankruptcy proceedings to $125,000 in most individual cases, and modernized protections for property held in revocable trusts. The new law allows Marylanders filing bankruptcy more protection for their primary home from creditors.

MSBA thanks the MSBA Sections and members who have dedicated many hours and their expertise to advocacy efforts throughout the legislative session. To view a full list of bills passed by the Legislature, click here.

Federal Advocacy: Protecting Our Courts and the Rule of Law

FEDERAL DELEGATION AND ABA DAY MSBA's role as the voice of the legal profession extends directly to the federal level. In March, organization leaders joined over 200 advocates from other state bar associations in Washington D.C. during the annual ABA Day and met with Maryland Congressional representatives to further legislative priorities, including: • Judicial and Attorney Security Resources: Support for bipartisan legislation to create a national database for state judicial threat information to improve judicial security, access to justice in state and local courts, and best practices among states. •

Access to Legal Services: Maintain and fully fund the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), which provides civil legal representation for low-income individuals and improves barriers to justice.

• Attorney-Client Privilege: Recognize and support a bipartisan bill to preserve attorney-client privilege in digital communications between attorneys and federally-incarcerated clients. • Funding Public Defenders: Fully fund the Defender Services Office (DSO) and panel attorneys in 2027 to protect indigent defendants’ Sixth Amendment right to counsel. 2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

NATIONAL RULEMAKING AND DOJ COMMENT CAMPAIGN In April, we protected the autonomy of our profession and trust in the courts by responding to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Proposed Rule for Review of State Bar Complaints and Allegations Against DOJ Attorneys. The proposed framework would prevent current and former DOJ attorneys from being investigated by state bar disciplinary authorities for misconduct or ethical violations and would weaken the integrity of the legal system, interfere with the authority of the Supreme Court of Maryland to regulate the practice of law, and create a professional conflict of interest for DOJ attorneys. MSBA responded by activating our advocacy network and drafting and filing formal comments urging immediate withdrawal of the rule. Through a sign-on initiative and advocacy alerts, 172 attorneys and 19 law firms and organizations joined MSBA’s opposition, sending a clear message about the collective strength of the legal profession in upholding the rule of law, ethical standards, and preserving public trust. Taking our advocacy to Washington D.C. ensures that MSBA is not only reacting to federal proposals, but actively shaping national policies and voicing the challenges facing our members and the clients we serve to federal lawmakers.

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

April 6, 2026

“The Proposed Rule would directly contradict and interfere with the established authority of state courts to regulate attorneys . . . [and] would prevent DOJ attorneys from timely fulfillment of their ethical requirements at the state level . . . Admission to the Bar is based on a commitment to the rule of law and a code of ethics, personal to each attorney and independent of one’s employer.”

The Honorable Todd W. Blanche, Acting Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20530 Submitted online at https://www.regu

lations.gov

Re:

U.S. Department of Justice Docket No. OAG 199 Comment to Proposed Rulemaking Review of State Bar Complaints and Allegations Against Departm ent of Justice Attorneys

Dear Attorney General Blanche: The Maryland State Bar Association (MSBA) submits this comment on behalf of over 15,000 members, including lawyers, judges, law students, and legal professionals, in response to the proposed Department of Justice (DOJ) rulemaking for Review of State Bar Complaints and Allegations Against Department of Justice Attorneys (Proposed Rule). The Proposed Rule would prevent current and former DOJ attorneys from being investigated by state bar disciplinary authorities for misconduct or ethical violations. MSBA is committed to the rule of law, administration of justice, and professi onal accountability, and opposes the Proposed Rule for the reasons stated below. I.

The Supreme Court of Maryland Possesses Exclusive Authority to Regulate the Maryland Bar.

The Supreme Court of Maryland has exclusive authority to regulate the practice of law, admit new members, and discipline attorney s who fail to meet the standards of professional conduct for attorneys admitted to practice in Maryland and for attorneys who provide legal services in Maryland, pursuant to Maryland Rule 19-308.5. Through the Attorney Grievan ce Commission

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

Community Impact, Education, and Access to Justice Community engagement and public education are essential to the mission of MSBA and A2JC. By connecting directly with lawmakers, the judiciary, advocacy partners, educators, and the public, we promote and preserve an accessible, transparent, and responsive legal system to meet the needs of Marylanders. 7TH ANNUAL MSBA DAY MSBA and A2JC partner annually in February to host a lobby day, a signature event bringing together member attorneys and judges to directly engage with members of the General Assembly on legislative priorities and the real-world impact of bills, learn more about MSBA’s Advocacy Team and volunteer opportunities, and obtain lobbying training. A highlight of this year’s program was honoring lawmakers for their leadership and dedication to our profession and the public in the following categories:

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

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Legacy of Leadership Award – Senator Chris West: Presented to a long-serving legislator demonstrating enduring commitment to MSBA’s mission, collaboration with MSBA members, and bipartisanship and civility.

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Advocacy Visionary Award – Senator Will Smith: Honoring a lawmaker who identifies emerging leading challenges and shapes the future of the law and meaningful systemic reforms.

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Legislative Champion Award – Delegate Sandy Bartlett: Awarded for exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the legal profession, the integrity of the justice system, and the highest standards of professional conduct.

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Voice of Justice Award – Delegate Nicole Williams: Celebrating an advocate for MSBA values, bringing a practitioner's perspective and insights, and for promoting access to justice.

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Rising Advocate Award – Senator Dawn Gile: Honoring a dynamic legislator who has quickly become a respected leader, handling complex bills in various practice areas.

“MSBA Day is a wonderful opportunity to personally see how accessible our delegates are and how they engaged with me and my colleagues. Their willingness to give us time and attention showcases their commitment to the real issues behind the bills, and the people that they ultimately impact.” —KELLY HUMAN, REAL PROPERTY SECTION MEMBER A2JC EDUCATES DECISION-MAKERS & THE PUBLIC: THE 2026 DATA & COMMUNICATION TOOLKIT A2JC creates targeted educational tools to inform policymakers and the public on civil justice impacts: •

The Empowered Video Project: Produced with the Maryland Legal Services Corporation (MLSC) to expose the representation gap, this series aired nationally on Public Television across all 50 states, reaching up to 60 million households.

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The Interactive Story Map: A geospatial tool merging local data with storytelling to prove civil legal aid is a vital, non-partisan necessity for housing, food security, and physical safety.

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State and County-Specific One-Pagers: Statistical profiles for Maryland and all 24 local jurisdictions, delivering clear, district-level data to help elected officials address constituent legal needs.

• The People’s Guide: Published by A2JC’s Public Interest Law Committee, this plain-language resource breaks down 2026 legislative victories so everyday Marylanders can exercise their rights. DEEPENING THE MSBA AND A2JC ALLIANCE This active partnership drives joint initiatives focused on systemic reform: • Innovations in Tiered Legal Services Task Force: Co-led by MSBA, A2JC, and the Maryland Judiciary, this body completed a 20-month examination of legal profession tiering. Its May 2026 Audit Report showed Allied Legal Professionals (ALPs) operating safely across 15+ state proceedings and 15 federal agencies without consumer harm. The Final Report, which will be out in fall 2026, recommends creating three tiers: Community Justice Workers (akin to Community Health Workers), Legal Practitioners (akin to Nurse Practitioners), and a Legal Technology Tier to scale reach to self-represented litigants and buttress the work of all three tiers. 2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

Courts, Judicial Independence, and Rulemaking “The rule of law is only as strong as the profession that delivers it.” —MSBA PRESIDENT NATASHA DARTIGUE

MSBA and A2JC support an independent judiciary that preserves judicial integrity, maintains judicial safety, and promotes transparency and public trust. We work directly and impartially to support judicial selection and education, review and respond to court matters that significantly impact our membership or a practice area, and draft and amend rules of practice and procedure. JUDICIAL SELECTION AND APPOINTMENTS Judicial Appointments Committee (JAC): MSBA evaluates judicial candidates through its JAC, which interviews and vets applicants for district, circuit, and appellate courts in a thorough, nonpartisan process. MSBA provides recommendations for qualified candidates to local Judicial Nominating Commissions (JNCs), with a focus on supporting individuals of outstanding character, integrity, judicial temperament, and required expertise. Qualified candidates are then recommended and appointed by the Governor. Sitting Judges Campaign: In Maryland, sitting judges who have gone through detailed interviews f rom MSBA and other local and specialty bar associations, as well as additional vetting and evaluation by a JNC and the Governor, must seek election within a certain number of years after appointment. Any qualified attorney may file to run as a challenger without going through any nomination process. MSBA supports sitting judges in judicial elections as this merit-based selection system protects the integrity of our courts and ensures a high-quality judiciary. 14

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

AMICUS ADVOCACY MSBA monitors court proceedings and files highimpact amicus curiae briefs when we can provide a unique perspective of Maryland attorneys on issues that relate to MSBA’s core advocacy principles. Last year, MSBA filed an amicus brief in U.S. v. Russell supporting Maryland federal judges’ Motion to Dismiss a case filed by the U.S. Department of Justice challenging the legality of a U.S. District Court Standing Order of a stay on deportations. MSBA’s brief focused on procedural grounds and affirms our commitment to protecting the legal profession, supporting the separation of powers, ensuring access to justice, and upholding the rule of law. Over 200 attorneys and law firms signed on to MSBA’s brief through a coordinated advocacy campaign. The case concluded after the DOJ withdrew its appeal. RULES COMMITTEE AND COURT ADMINISTRATION MSBA regularly follows proceedings of the Supreme Court of Maryland’s Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure that impact the legal profession and court systems. MSBA develops comments, provides feedback, and educates members in several key areas, including: • Voir Dire Expansion and Pilot Program: Maryland is considering broader jury selection techniques to improve fairness and reduce bias following a recent pilot program in 2025 and 2026. MSBA restarted its Special Committee on Voir Dire to educate members and update resources for member attorneys, judges, and the public. The association also serves on the Judiciary’s Pilot Program Advisory Board that provided a report and recommendations in June. MSBA will continue to monitor and advocate on behalf of our members when the issue comes before the court. • AI and Legal Technology: As members and firms adjust to the rapid rise of AI and legal technology, MSBA continues to monitor legal and technological developments and develop resources through its AI and Legal Technology Task Force, including an AI Insights and Resources Hub and a Certificate in Generative AI. MSBA also works closely with members Sections and the Judiciary’s Rules Committee to monitor and provide feedback on AI-related rule changes. 2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

• Pro Bono and Access to Justice Initiatives: A2JC and MSBA support rule changes and court initiatives that promote pro bono participation, court accessibility, and data collection on access to justice programs. • Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE): MSBA has provided significant member feedback and analysis to the court on the issue of MCLE in Maryland. In 2022, the association participated in an MCLE Workgroup and continues to monitor developments with the Supreme Court. While MSBA remains neutral as to the adoption of MCLE in Maryland, MSBA advocates for an innovative, attorney friendly model if the court moves forward with the program. MSBA will continue to provide widely accredited, affordable in person and online CLE programs in our role to support and education the profession.

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Looking Ahead: Legal Summit Insights and Future Advocacy

“Your work ensures that the values, that the words, and that the principles of our Constitution are defended, protected, and are honored every single day. That is the foundation that we stand on.” —GOVERNOR WES MOORE

The 2026 Legal Summit in Ocean City provided a meaningful opportunity for members to hear directly from lawmakers and state officials as we shape our priorities for 2027. A bipartisan legislative panel, featuring Senator Jeff Waldstreicher, Senator Chris West, Delegate Sandy Bartlett, Delegate Jason Buckel, Delegate Jon Cardin, and Delegate Elizabeth Embry, reviewed 2026 session wins, including improvements in juvenile justice, court security, estate and trust practice, criminal procedure, and parole reform. Legislators indicated that the 2027 budget environment will be even more challenging than 2026 and that the legal and business community should be prepared to defend against tax proposals to close budget gaps. Lawmakers emphasized a collaborative spirit, strengthened under the leadership of new House Speaker Peña-Melnyk, and the

importance of proactive dialogue with MSBA members as they develop legislation for the next session. Maryland Supreme Court Chief Justice Matthew Fader and Governor Wes Moore thanked MSBA for its leadership on court security and access to justice, while urging members to expand pro bono service, defend the rule of law, and protect an independent judiciary from attack. Governor Moore emphasized the positive partnership between state government and Maryland’s legal community to address justice challenges as Maryland continues to invest in access to legal services. The Governor welcomed new MSBA President Natasha Dartigue as a leader who has stood beside Marylanders, alongside MSBA executive leaders who represent a breadth of the profession. 2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

Your membership and participation helps MSBA maintain a strong presence in our collective advocacy on behalf of the Bar as we look ahead to our 2027 priorities.

“Together, we can build a stronger profession, better support one another, and ensure that the rule of law is not merely defended but fully realized. I invite you to join me.” —MSBA PRESIDENT NATASHA DARTIGUE

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

Acknowledgments

MSBA Laws Committee

Elder Law: Lillian Hummel

Acknowledgment of Counsel

Irnande Altema and Kelly Iverson Hughes, Co-Chairs

Environment and Energy Law: Anjana Turner

Charles (Trey) Hilberg, Sarah Kahl, and Jonathan Nelson, Vice-Chairs

Estate and Trust Law: Todd Bornstein

MSBA thanks the distinguished law firms and appellate counsel who drafted the U.S. v. Russell amicus brief:

David Cahn, Chair Emeritus

Family Law: Michelle Smith

Illiff Meredith Wildberger & Brennan

MSBA Rules Committee

Health Law: Christopher Dean

Kramon & Graham

Michael Hudak and Connie Kratovil-Lavelle, Co-Chairs

Immigration Law: Alice Barrett, Heather Krick, Jon Greene, Juan Carlos Silen

Miller Miller and Canby

Intellectual Property: Jan Berlage

Steven M. Klepper

Kristina Badalian, Tiffani Collins, Andrew Illuminati, and Jessica Quincosa, Co-Chairs

Labor and Employment Law: Joyce Smithey

Lydia E. Lawless

Maryland Access to Justice Commission (A2JC)

Negligence, Insurance, and Worker’s Compensation: Savas Georgas

MSBA Judicial Appointments Committee

Erek Barron, Chair Ward Coe, Chair Emeritus A2JC Advocacy Committee Victoria Schultz and Jessica Quincosa, Co-Chairs Practice Area Legislative Liaisons Administrative Law: Cornelia Bright Gordon Agriculture Law: Paul Goeringer Alternative Dispute Resolution: Denise Hicks Brown, Jim Pauli Animal Law: Maureen Quinn Bench-Bar: Hon. Rachael Barnett Business Law: Charles (Trey) Hilberg Construction Law: Schyler Bailey Consumer Bankruptcy: Brian Tucci Criminal Law: Shelley Brown, Joyce King, Toni Holness

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION

Litigation: Megan Coleman

Public Interest Law: Meredith Girard Real Property: William O’Connell Solo and Small Firm: James Faison State and Local Government: Roscoe Leslie, Elissa Levan, Jerome Spencer Taxation: Victoria Kelly, Kimberly Gilreath, Lourdes Mars, Lynne Peace, Robbie Braland, Melinda Dunmire Veterans’ Affairs and Military Law: Michael Lyons Young Lawyers: Trevor Jones MSBA Special Committee on Voir Dire Hon. Krystal Alves, Hon. John Maloney, Patrice Meredith Clarke, and Timothy Gunning, Co-Chairs

Diane E. Feuerherd Andrew Jay Graham

Kathleen Howard Meredith James P. Ulwick Innovations in Tiered Legal Services Task Force Hon. Angela Eaves, M. Natalie McSherry, and Reena Shah, Co-Chairs MSBA Strategic Planning Committee – Advocacy Pod Erek Barron and Marisa Trasatti, Co-Chairs Members: David Cahn Shawn Goldfaden Hon. William Carl Isler, II Nicole Love-Kelly Lynne Peace Amy Petkovsek Kerri Smith Margaret Tippett

Advocacy Resources

MSBA Advocacy

MSBA Legislative Action Tracker

MSBA Membership

Bills Passed By Both Chambers (2026 - Maryland General Assembly)

MSBA Advocacy Program (2026) MSBA Laws Committee

MSBA Comment to DOJ Proposed Rulemaking (April 6, 2026)

MSBA CLE On-Demand Learning

MSBA Amicus Brief, U.S. v. Russell (July 29, 2025)

Maryland Access to Justice Commission

The Interactive Story Map

Donate to A2CJ Volunteer with A2JC Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force Report (Jan. 2026) The Empowered Video Project

State and County-Specific One-Pagers People’s Guide: 2026 Maryland Legislative Session Audit Report, Innovations in Tiered Legal Services Task Force (May 2026)

2026 ADVOCACY IMPACT REPORT

Our strength is in the collective action and unified voice of our members. We remain thankful and open to your expertise and advocacy commitment through our Sections and Committees as we continue our work across the state and in Washington D.C. Join or renew your commitment with MSBA today. JOIN US MSBA Day FEBRUARY 24, 2027

Join members of the legal community in Annapolis, where you will learn about MSBA and A2JC legislative priorities and lobbying strategies as you engage with Maryland lawmakers and their staff. Registration opens fall 2026. Follow msba.org/advocacy for updates.

MSBA Legal Summit 2027 JUNE 9-11, 2027

Join MSBA's signature conference for learning and connection in Ocean City, bringing together Maryland legal professionals from across the state, in every professional segment, and every career stage. Registration opens fall 2026. Follow msba.org for updates.

CONTACT US Contact MSBA: 410-685-7878 or advocacy@msba.org to join our advocacy work, including our Laws Committee and practice-area Sections. For more information, visit: msba.org/advocacy. Contact A2JC: 443-703-3037 or mdaccesstojustice.org/give-help/volunteer to volunteer your time. For more information, visit: mdaccesstojustice.org Donate to A2JC today https://tinyurl.com/yrjyh9hf

msba.org/advocacy mdaccesstojustice.org

MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION