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Anne Arundel County Judge of the Circuit Court - Circuit 5 {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

DUTIES: Circuit Court Judges preside over jury and bench trials in the Circuit Court, which hears major criminal trials with the right to a jury, and civil cases involving more than $30,000. They also handle family law matters like divorce and custody, and decide appeals from lower courts. TERM: Four years, no term limitSALARY: $214,433HOW ELECTED: Circuit Court Judges are elected county-wide. When there is a vacancy, the Governor appoints a person to fill the office from a list recommended by a judicial nominating commission, which reviews each applicant's qualifications and experience. Each newly appointed judge will appear on the ballot in the first election occurring after at least one year after the vacancy. Attorneys who are members of the MarylandBar may also run to challenge a newly appointed or sitting judge. Candidates run on both the Democratic and Republican primary ballots, but not the nonpartisan ballot given to unaffiliated voters.WEBSITE: https://www.courts.state.md.us/circuit

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  • Candidate picture

    Elizabeth Adams
    (Jud)

  • Candidate picture

    Sidney A. Butcher
    (Jud)

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    Ginina A. Jackson-Stevenson
    (Jud)

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    Rowena N. Nelson
    (Jud)

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 are the greatest challenges facing the Maryland court system and how should they be addressed?

Campaign Website http://www.Adams4Judge.com
Campaign Phone 443-294-5324
Campaign Email elizabeth@Adams4Judge.com
Campaign Instagram Adams4Judge2026
I am a lifelong Anne Arundel County resident. I began my legal career in our Circuit Court at age 22. Over the past 26 years, I have proudly served as an Anne Arundel County Assistant Prosecutor and Assistant County Attorney. I have handled thousands of cases in our County and across Maryland, whether simple to complex, criminal or civil cases.
My priority is serving my community. To me, in no specific order, being a judge who serves means: 1) being thoroughly prepared, experienced, and knowledgeable; 2) having the courage to make hard decisions and tough calls; 3) treating every person with dignity and respect; and 4) fairly, impartially, and accurately applying the rule of law.
The greatest challenge facing the Maryland court system is the overwhelming volume of filings relative to its limited resources. Circuit Court cases demand more time and resources than the system can effectively handle. In 2025, statewide, the Maryland court system received 1,301,937 filings. Our Circuit Court received 233,595 filings, but has only thirteen (13) judges. A plausible solution includes increased funding and improved technology.
Campaign Phone (410)266-0626
With over seven years as a district court judge and circuit court judge I am uniquely qualified to handle range of diverse matters. As a former prosecutor, assistant attorney general and defense attorney I have years of experience knowing advocating for the interest of people and businesses. I want my courtroom to be comfortable for all parties involved. As an adjunct professor, I have enjoyed engaging with future lawyers. My record for community service has also benefited me as a judge.
As a current Circuit Court Judge, my priorities include (1) ensuring that lawyers and litigants who appear before me are always treated fairly with respect and dignity; (2) rendering impartial, thoughtful decisions that apply the law to the facts and circumstances of each case; (3) continuing my community involvement and outreach to students from elementary school to law school;(4) continue to be an active and engaged member of my community through bar associations and other non partisan groups.
We have challenges with mental health within our community and ensuring equal access to justice and the courts for all citizens, including diverse communities, is an ongoing challenge that must be met. The Courts continue to address language and other access barriers, including use of remote access for many types of hearings and self-help centers in courthouses. We can do better on getting litigants and portions of our populations connected with resources within our communities.
Campaign Phone 410-266-0626
My experience spans the judiciary, private practice and public service. From 2023 serving as a Circuit Court Judge and the previous three years as a Family Law Magistrate prepared me to preside over diverse dockets and decide cases fairly, applying the law. Ten years as a general practitioner provided experience in diverse areas of law and insight in running a business. Seven years as an Assistant Public Defender grounded me in trial practice, zealous advocacy and courtroom procedure.
As a current Circuit Court Judge, my priorities are to ensure fair, impartial and timely resolution of cases while maintaining a courtroom that is respectful and professional. I focus on consistent application of the law, thoughtful case management and clear communication with all litigants, counsel and court staff. I am committed to treating all parties with dignity and reinforcing public confidence in integrity and effectiveness of the judiciary.
The greatest challenges include increasing caseloads, limited resources and delays that could hinder access to justice. These challenges are addressed through efficient case management, effective use of technology and clear communication with litigants and counsel. Courts must balance timely resolution with thoughtful decision-making while remaining fair, consistent and respectful to everyone. Preserving professionalism and transparency is essential to maintain public confidence.
Campaign Phone 240-205-6215
Campaign Mailing Address 1801 McCormick
Suite 150
Largo, MD 20774
My experience as a Litigation and Appellate attorney has required careful analysis of statutes, precedent, and evidence while advocating within the rules of the court. This work has strengthened my commitment to fairness, due process, and judicial ethics. It has prepared me to evaluate complex legal issues, manage courtroom proceedings, and apply the law impartially.
My priorities are fairness, efficiency, and public confidence in the courts. I would work to ensure that every litigant is treated with respect, that cases are handled promptly and thoughtfully, and that decisions are grounded in the law and the evidence. Maintaining professionalism, transparency, and procedural fairness is essential to a strong judiciary.
Maryland courts face challenges including case backlogs, a high number of self-represented litigants who cannot afford an attorney, limited judicial resources, and ongoing juvenile justice reform. Addressing these issues requires efficient case management, expanded access to legal resources and self-help services for self-represented litigants, responsible use of courtroom technology, and a continued commitment to fairness and impartiality for the courts to remain accessible and trusted.