What’s Up? Annapolis

The Annapolis law firm of Hillman, Brown & Darrow is right at home in a city steeped in historical significance. The firm’s roots go back 80 years to its founder, Noah A. Hillman, a legend in the legal and political community. His son, Richard Lazar Hillman, joined him in practice. Samuel J. Brown joined the firm in 1976. Noah passed away the following year. Michael P. Darrow joined the firm in 1979, thus forming Hillman, Brown & Darrow. Richard withdrew from the firm when he became mayor of Annapolis. As a tribute to its founder, the Hillman name has been retained.

Tradition and integrity are still the cornerstones of the practice. Hillman, Brown & Darrow has been in the same location for more than 25 years, just 100 steps from the Circuit Courthouse and the Maryland State House. This historic location, however, also allows the firm to stay current and at the top of today’s legal community. In addition, the firm’s unwavering commitment to clients and a tremendous amount of service to the community makes HBD one of the most successful firms in Annapolis.

“[The] entire firm has a diverse array of talent and knowledge,” according to one of their clients. Hillman, Brown & Darrow’s practice areas include divorce, separation agreements, custody and support, contract law, criminal and traffic law, DWI’s, appellate practice, administrative law, adoptions, business law, civil litigation, commercial and corporate law, juvenile issues, estate planning, landlord and tenant cases, nuisance, criminal law, small claims actions, personal injury, probate, and workers compensation.

Samuel J. Brown, a graduate of Annapolis Senior High School, Anne Arundel County Community College, the
University of Virginia, and American University’s Washington College of Law, concentrates in domestic law and has represented more than 150 liquor license establishments in Anne Arundel County. A comment on avvo.com, a lawyer review website, states, “[Sam] is confident, very respected and has a great rapport with other legal professionals. He is fair, attentive to detail, organized, timely, and is always three steps ahead. On a personal level, he is funny, warm, and friendly.”

Partner Michael P. Darrow, a University of Baltimore Law School graduate, has represented many local businesses and contractors, concentrating on civil and corporate litigation, construction law, contract disputes, real estate law, collections, and personal injury. Darrow is well regarded by his peers and by his clients. “Without question,” a recent client commented, “Michael Darrow has proven to be the best of the best and will remain my first choice in all matters that require an attorney. I would recommend him to anyone without hesitation.”

Partner Daniel J. Mellin, a graduate of Georgetown University and the University of Maryland School of Law, concentrates his practice in real estate law, zoning and land use, business law, estate planning, and probate law.

Partner M. Evelyn Spurgin, a graduate of Duke University and the University of Maryland School of Law, concentrates her practice in personal injury litigation, workers compensation, family law, civil litigation, and appellate work.

H. Winship Wheatley, III, “of counsel,” was Director of Transportation for the Board of Education and has rejoined HBD. He has served as president of the Maryland Association for Student Transportation.

Hillman, Brown & Darrow associates are Jonathan E. Pasterick, Marietta B. Warren, Brian D. Lyman, and Stacey B. Rice. Ms. Rice was selected as one of Annapolis’ leading criminal lawyers. A client review of Ms. Rice states, “I immediately felt a sense of relief and security after our first meeting due to Stacey’s professional conduct, demeanor,
knowledge and frankness. She was empathetic in regard to my turmoil, yet calm, honest, and forthcoming in addressing the issues at hand.”

HBD refers to itself as “A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM dedicated to serving our clients, the law and our community.” Their philosophy is to maintain a living practice. They represent families and businesses in all facets of their everyday lives.

Brown recommends “finding an attorney with whom you are compatible, who understands your case, and who will treat you like you deserve to be treated.” He believes the important qualities for an attorney to possess are integrity, dedication, and knowledge of the law. Ms. Spurgin concurs with Brown’s assessment and adds her belief that the practice of law is rewarding. “It feels good when you get a result that you know is right for the client.”

The attorneys of Hillman, Brown & Darrow contribute their time and expertise to many charitable organizations, including the London Town Foundation, Inc., public schools, St. Mary’s High School, Annapolis Symphony, Theresian Society, Spalding High School, Providence Center, Associated Builders & Contractors, St. Joseph’s University, and the Bar Association.

The firm includes individuals who are licensed to practice before the Maryland Courts, the District of Columbia Superior Court, United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, United States District Courts for the District of Maryland, and the United States Supreme Court. They are also active members of many legal associations.

Please visit their website at www.HBDLAW.com.

If you are a business enterprise that is conducting commercial trade, you are subject to business laws and government regulations. This area of law is very broad. It covers everything from business formation to contract law, litigation and corporate law. Complexity of the law is another reason to bring in an experienced business law attorney. To be successful in operating a business, someone must have an understanding of the complex laws and issues that apply to that business. The business lawyer should be an important confidant all along the path to business success.

Business transactions are governed by state laws, with most adhering to the Uniform Commercial Code regulations for business transactions. This includes contracts, operations and litigation. Attention to legal details is needed in order to form legally binding agreements between parties. The lawyer knows what legal details must be put in writing to be enforceable.

If litigation becomes necessary, the business owner needs the protection of the skilled business law attorney to uphold their contract rights. Trials may be very long and drawn out, with many complex issues of business law. Litigation can occur between clients and a business or even within the business, between partners or corporation executives. Protecting the business and owners from monetary claims and awards during lawsuit actions is the job of the corporate attorney who acts on behalf of the best interest of the business and owners.

If you are starting up a new business, buying an existing one, upgrading your business to a corporation, need contracts for your business, or have other business related legal matters that need attention, bring in your business law attorney to represent your interests. The business lawyers at www.hbdlaw.com can be steady advisors as your business grows and prospers. Their job is to help you make good business decisions.