2026 Judicial Education Course Catalog

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 Maryland Spousal Support: A Primer 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. This class will focus on the following topics: Background of alimony laws and historical development of spousal support goals and considerations; alimony factors and judicial review considerations for trial court alimony rulings; types of alimony in Maryland (distinctions between pendente lite and rehabilitative alimony considerations and findings required for indefinite alimony); use of alimony guidelines, income, and other considerations in assessing financial needs and resources for purposes of alimony, voluntary impoverishment, and imputing income; and the distinction between assessing income and imputing income. Coordinator: Hon. Bibi Berry

Discovery Disputes 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

The program will be designed to refresh judges on the overall purpose of discovery in both criminal and civil cases. The presenters will review the role of the judge and the parties, in preventing, and resolving discovery issues. Issues to be discussed will include scheduling orders, allowable exceptions to scheduling orders, and expectations of the parties in the process. The program will discuss caselaw describing determinations to be used when considering sanctions and cases demonstrating the parameters of discovery rulings. Coordinators: Curt Booth, Esq.; Michael Winkelman, Esq. TUESDAY, JANUARY 27 CINA Matters — Facts, Findings, & Finalizing Permanency D I & 9 a.m. – Noon Join us for a lively discussion about the child welfare laws applicable to child in need of assistance (“CINA”) cases, the various time standards that apply, and the types of hearings that occur. Judicial officers new to the docket will learn the basics and experienced judicial officers will sharpen their skills and share best practices. See how you can use the tools and resources available to local departments and the court to focus on achieving permanency for children who enter the foster care system. Coordinator: Hon. Yolanda Tanner

LUNCHTIME

JANUARY 21

SIJC Process, Procedure, & Current Updates D I & with Mag. Sarah Malik

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 Damages — Yes, No, & Maybe 9 a.m. – Noon

The course will provide a comprehensive review of the types of damages judges may expect to encounter, with a primary focus on negligence claims. It would then provide an overview of types of damages which are allowed, types of damages which are not allowed, and types of damages which may be allowed under the right circumstances. The presenters will present caselaw defining the court’s role in the assessment of damage evidence and testimony. And finally, the course will provide judges an understanding of the core principles to be followed in the evaluation and/or award in a case. Coordinators: Curt Booth, Esq.; Michael Winkelman, Esq.

2026 Judicial Education Course Catalog

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