On September 20, 2024, a Baltimore County judge opened a Zoom hearing and waited. The appellant, Eliezer Vogel, who was challenging nearly $38,000 in attorneys’ fees charged to his late father’s estate, failed to appear. Within minutes, the judge granted the opposing party’s motion to dismiss. Just like that, Vogel’s appeal vanished—not because his arguments…
Author: M. Preston Lane Jr.
M. Preston Lane Jr. is the founder and principal writer of Maryland Law Blog, offering in-depth analysis of Maryland’s appellate court decisions and case law.
Mr. Lane brings a unique perspective rooted in Maryland’s legal and cultural history. Drawing on their legal research experience, Mr. Lane dissects complex legal topics, making them accessible to both legal professionals and everyday readers. His passion lies in clarifying legal processes and sharing stories that shape Maryland's evolving judicial landscape.
When he isn't mulling over Maryland court rulings, Lane explores Maryland's rich legal heritage and engages with the legal community to spotlight key developments across the state.
When the Law Changes But Your Case Doesn’t: Maryland’s Marijuana Search Rules Catch a Driver in Legal Limbo
On December 27, 2022, Xavier Sanchez-Santos rolled through a flashing red light in Montgomery County. It was the kind of minor traffic violation that happens thousands of times across Maryland — a momentary lapse that typically ends with a warning or a ticket. But for Mr. Sanchez-Santos, this routine stop would spiral into a legal…
When Faith Meets the Workplace: The Teresa Harmon Religious Discrimination Case
Teresa Harmon had been caring for cancer patients at Kaiser’s Gaithersburg oncology center for nearly two years when the email arrived. Like millions of healthcare workers across America in August 2021, she faced a choice that would upend her life: get vaccinated against COVID-19 or risk losing her job. For Harmon, a registered nurse whose…
Daniel Fuentes Espinal Case: When Constitutional Promises Meet Immigration Enforcement Reality
Legal Education Notice: This analysis of immigration enforcement policies and constitutional principles is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law involves complex procedures and severe consequences. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance on specific immigration matters. Important: This article discusses immigration law, where mistakes can have life-altering consequences. Do not…
Bhairava v. State (2025): Maryland Court Affirms Denial of Defense Postponement Request
The recent decision in Bhairava v. State, No. 1471, Sept. Term, 2023, slip op. at ___ (Md. App. Jan. 2, 2025) (unreported), examines a defendant’s right to insist on proceeding to trial against their counsel’s request for additional preparation time. The Appellate Court of Maryland affirmed the Circuit Court for Baltimore County’s denial of a motion to postpone the trial, holding…
Appellate Court Reviews Vehicle Gun Possession Evidence Standards in Thompson v. State
As we delve into the intricacies of Maryland criminal law, certain cases emerge that significantly impact how we understand fundamental legal concepts. The recent decision in Thompson v. State, No. 1542, Sept. Term, 2023, slip op. at ___ (Md. App. Jan. 2, 2025) (unreported) offers us a fascinating lens through which to examine how Maryland…