The Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities filed ethical charges against Judge Marc Knapp of the Orphans’ Court for Anne Arundel County in February, but the details of the charges were made public last week. The Commission initiated multiple investigations into Knapp’s conduct following complaints that suggested a pattern of unprofessional behavior.
The investigations were conducted by Investigative Counsel Tanya C. Bernstein, who evaluated various sources of information, including complaints, audio recordings of court proceedings, correspondence from Judge Knapp, and media articles. Based on this evidence, the Commission found probable cause to believe that Judge Knapp engaged in conduct that warrants formal proceedings.
Judge Knapp has served as a judge since December 2022. The Commission’s findings indicate that his behavior has included a persistent pattern of unprofessional conduct, particularly in his interactions with a fellow judge, identified in media reports as Judge Vickie Gipson. The charges detail instances of verbal altercations in chambers, where Judge Knapp reportedly displayed aggressive and disrespectful behavior, including using profanity and invading personal space during confrontations.
The Commission noted that Knapp’s conduct extended beyond private discussions, impacting the public perception of the judiciary. His actions allegedly undermined public confidence and interfered with the operations of the Orphans’ Court. Additionally, Judge Knapp is accused of failing to maintain proper decorum, both in private chambers and in public court proceedings.
The formal charges outline specific violations of the Maryland Code of Judicial Conduct, including adherence to the law, promoting confidence in the judiciary, and maintaining appropriate decorum and demeanor. The Commission cited several rules that Judge Knapp allegedly violated, including those related to bias, competence, and cooperation with disciplinary authorities.
Further allegations include Judge Knapp’s public comments about cases pending in the District Court of Maryland, which suggested he may have intended to influence the outcomes of these proceedings. He reportedly made statements critical of the Maryland judiciary and the Commission itself, raising concerns about his impartiality and the integrity of the judicial process.
The charges also highlight Judge Knapp’s breach of confidentiality regarding matters before the Commission. According to the document, “Judge Knapp was quoted as claiming to have knowledge of confidential Commission proceedings, specifically complaints allegedly filed by himself and others against another judge or judges.”
In response to the escalating tensions with Judge Gipson, Knapp reportedly engaged in retaliatory behavior, including accusations of wrongdoing against colleagues and staff who sought assistance or cooperated with the Commission’s inquiries. This conduct is characterized as harassment and an attempt to undermine the judicial independence of his fellow judges.
The Commission has directed that formal proceedings be initiated against Judge Knapp, with a public hearing scheduled to address the charges.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
