Chief Judge’s Worcester County Visit Called ‘Invaluable’

SNOW HILL — Just about one year after being appointed to the state’s highest judicial post, Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera met with Worcester County Circuit Court judges and court professionals last month as part of her tour of the various court systems in Maryland.

Barbera visited the Worcester County courthouse in Snow Hill to meet with judges, clerks and other court professionals to get a better understanding of how the county’s judicial system is operating. The courthouse visit was more practical than ceremonial, according to County Administrative Judge Thomas C. Groton III.

“We sometimes feel that we are just thought of as the far-flung southeast corner of the state, but this was not a perfunctory, quick meet-and-greet kind of event,” he said. “The chief judge spent more than two hours here, learning about us and how we operate. It was invaluable.”

Groton said Barbera took the time to carefully meet everyone working in the courthouse.

“Chief Judge Barbera visited every part of our court and met with everyone,” he said. “It was a great way for everyone who works here to put a face and a personality with the name. Chief Judge Barbera was genuinely interested in learning about the day-to-day operations. She did not just meet people. She talked with everyone, listened intently and asked very good questions.”

During her tour of the four courtrooms, Barbera met with Groton, Judge Richard Bloxom, Judge Brian Shockley, Master Mary Margaret “Peggy” Kent and Court Administrator Richard Outten. She then toured the criminal area, the Register of Wills’ offices, land records and civil areas. Clerk of Court Stephen Hales introduced her to staff members.

“A visit from the state’s highest judge is an honor, but is also a validation of all our efforts to serve the public,” said Hales. “I was thrilled for the people who work so hard every day to get the recognition they deserve and to get a chance to know they are part of a statewide effort.”

For her part, Barbera said this week she was pleased with the efforts of the Worcester County judicial system and the professionals she met during the tour.

“I learned a lot about Worcester County Circuit Court, both about its operations and the people who work here,” she said. “I was pleased to be able to thank Judge Groton in person for his excellent leadership of the court and I had the honor of meeting extremely dedicated professionals who serve the people of Maryland every day.”