Judge Ruth A. Jakubowski is one of four incumbent Circuit Court for Baltimore County justices running for reelection in the 3rd Judicial Circuit.
The others are Judge C. Carey Deeley Jr., Judge Michael Finifter and Judge Dennis M. Robinson Jr. They are being challenged by Judge Robert A. Cohen, who serves as a military judge in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Judge Jakubowski is a graduate of William Smith College; the Maxwell School of Public Administration, Syracuse University; and the Syracuse University College of Law.
A native of Watertown, N.Y., Judge Jakubowski, 64, lives in Pikesville with her husband, Dr. Richard Gruen. They have two adult children and belong to Chizuk Amuno Congregation.
Jmore recently spoke with Judge Jakubowski, who was first appointed to the court for a 15-year term in 2002.
Jmore: The benefits of being an incumbent judge?
Judge Jakubowski: As an incumbent you have first-hand knowledge of the court process and the complexity of the cases that come before you and how they are processed through our court. I, along with my three colleagues, Judge Deeley, Judge Finifter and Judge Robinson, are the incumbents on the ballot this year with the experience, knowledge, judgment and relationship with our community to continue in our positions.
The volume and wide variety of cases that are heard in our Circuit Court make our training, education and experience crucial to the administration of justice. Voters should visit our website at www.sittingjudges.com.
Lessons you’ve learned since first appointed to the Circuit Court in 2002?
Many litigants that come before us represent themselves. This is especially true in family law. Meeting the challenges of these important cases requires patience, an even temperament and an ability to listen and be sure that each litigant feels they have been heard and had their day in court. Judges have a direct impact on litigants’ lives, whether in a criminal, civil or family law. Understanding the law and how to fairly apply the law requires an understanding of our court system. The law is complex and ever-changing. You must constantly educate yourself in the law from the courts and from the legislature. Judges make tough and important decisions every day that can dramatically affect people’s lives.
I take this job very seriously and I understand the importance of being fair and impartial in all of my decisions.
Do women bring special characteristics to a judgeship?
I think that all judges, whether men or women, bring their life experiences to the bench. As a mother, wife and daughter, I bring a different perspective to the bench based on my life and background. I think it is important that women litigants see women judges on the bench. They need to see themselves on the other side of the table. The Baltimore County Circuit Court is fortunate to have a diverse bench with different backgrounds represented. Most our cases are civil and most of them are family law. Women bring a different perspective because of their background and their upbringing.
Do Jewish values influence your views?
Both of my parents were survivors of the Holocaust. My father was in the Warsaw Ghetto. I was raised by parents that have instilled in me a strong sense of justice, Jewish identity, values, the importance of human dignity and community service. I also came to understand the importance of an independent judiciary that is not beholden to any political or special interest group. As a Circuit Court judge, I am able to give back to my community by hearing cases and deciding them in a fair and impartial manner. Although I judge every day, it is with a balance of compassion and understanding to follow and apply the law fairly and impartially.
Can lay people be expected to determine who would best serve the Circuit Court?
An understanding of the judicial selection process ensures that only the most qualified applicants are appointed by a governor. Prior to appointment, applicants for Circuit Court judge go through a rigorous evaluation process to ensure they have the experience, judgment and temperament to decide cases. The process includes interviews with many legal organizations that are only interested in the governor making the best choice. An independent Baltimore County Judicial Nominating Commission thoroughly vets and interviews applicants before nomination for possible appointment by a governor. The commission members contact the applicant’s references, opposing counsel and judges. Your experience and professional reputation are scrutinized. This is a daunting process.
Why go through it?
Some people decide early on that they want to be a judge. But after I had a strong litigation practice, I decided I wanted to give something back to the community. Judges have an incredible impact on people’s lives on a daily basis. I really love doing this.
Peter Arnold is an Olney, Md.-based freelance writer.
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