Maryland’s election law for judges led to a situation in which David Densford was sworn in twice in less than a year. The law requires the governor to appoint a judge, who is then sworn-in, followed by an election. Densford won that election for St. Mary’s County Circuit Court Judge in November against Joseph Stanalonis and thus was sworn-in on Friday for a full-term.
The judge was swearing-in by St. Mary’s County Clerk of the Circuit Court Joan Williams. After the swearing-in Judge Densford pointed out his term will be about nine years because judges are required to retire at age 70. Retired judges in the state do stay very busy doing fill-in work.
Densford noted the tough election race in a short address to family and friends assembled for the swearing-in in his courtroom. “During the nine-month campaign there have been peaks and valleys,” he said. He especially remembered the passing of two of his strong supporters, Walt Sawyer and Mary Ann Chasen.
Densford said that during his 322 days being a judge he had handled more than 2,400 cases. But the work load doesn’t bother him. “It is the best job I will ever have, and I know that,” he said. He added, “I have never forgotten that this job is one of public service.”
After the swearing-in a reception was held at Woodlawn Farm in Ridge.
