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Washington County Judge of the Orphans' Court {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

DUTIES: Judges of the Orphans’ Court supervise the administration of estates. The Orphan’s Court shares jurisdiction with the Circuit Court over guardianships of minors. Orphan’s Court Judges conduct hearings that involve probate and guardianship disputes, review and act upon administration accounts, and request payments from estates or guardianships.SALARY: $7,800 plus an expense account of $500.TERM: Four years with no term limits.HOW ELECTED: Elected countywide.

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  • Candidate picture

    Paul D. Banister
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Debra Breeding
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Mark P. Brugh
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Jim Nipps
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

EXPERIENCE: How does your experience prepare you for the duties of this judgeship?

PRIORITIES: What are. your priorities for this judgeship?

CHALLENGES: What is the greatest challenge facing the Orphans' Court system and how will you address it?

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Campaign Twitter x.com/Mark P Brugh
Campaign Phone 240-527-4458
Campaign Email markbrugh4judge@gmail.com
Campaign Instagram mpbrugh
Campaign Twitter Handle @Mark P Brugh
Campaign Mailing Address 952 Mulberry Ave
Hagerstown, MD 21742
Mark is very active in community organizations, He is past president of The Potomac Playmakers, Tolson's Chapel, and is now Vice-President of the Washington County Rural Heritage Museum. Mark is a former director of the American Heart Association Heart Walk, and a division director for the United Way of Washington County. He was an adjunct instructor at HCC where he taught Family Law, Criminal Law and Evidence. Constitutional Law, American Government, and State and Local Government.
My priorities are: Fairness: Applying the law carefully and impartially. Respect: Treating every person who comes before the court with dignity and patience. Trust: Ensuring the Orphans’ Court remains a place where families, estates, and vulnerable individuals are handled with integrity and care.
A major challenge for the Orphans’ Court is guiding families through complicated estate matters during difficult and emotional times. The court must be fair, clear, and respectful so people understand the process and feel heard. I will approach every case with patience, independence, and careful attention to the law.
Campaign Phone 3017307450
Campaign Email jrnipps@yahoo.com
Campaign Mailing Address 20236 American Way
Hagerstown, MD 21742
I have been an Orphans’ Court Judge for nearly 4 years and enjoy overseeing estate administration, validating wills, appointing personal representatives, resolving disputes between beneficiaries, and ensuring proper distribution of assets. I have attended all required continuing education sessions in Annapolis and feel very confident in carrying out required duties. I get along well with the other two Judges. I have over 30 years of extensive management experience in the private sector.
To make sure the probate process moves timely and legally. To adhere to the requirements of a person’s Will and/or to follow the Maryland Estates and Trusts Code. At hearings, listen carefully, always respect the respondents, and most importantly be fair in rulings.
Serving as a probate judge presents complex challenges, including navigating emotionally charged family disputes, interpreting estate and guardianship laws, and ensuring fairness. Balancing compassion with impartiality is essential, as decisions directly impact vulnerable individuals and grieving families. Maintaining efficiency, upholding ethical standards, and communicating clearly are constant responsibilities in this judicial role.