(ANNAPOLIS, MD-June 29, 2004) On Friday, June 25, the Court of Appeals and the Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure held a recognition luncheon to honor Melvin J. Sykes, Esq., for his 50 years of service to the State of Maryland. 

“It is with great appreciation that we honor someone who has spent half a century providing outstanding service to the citizens of Maryland,” said Robert M. Bell, Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. “For 50 years and counting, Mr. Sykes’ experience and insight have helped shape the administration of justice in this State.”

Sykes, who grew up in Baltimore, was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 1949. He began practicing law that same year, and was appointed to the Rules Committee in 1954 by the Court of Appeals. Sykes, 80, serves on the Rules Committee without compensation, while working full-time as an attorney in private practice. Sykes said he plans to continue to serve as a member of the Rules Committee through his current term, which expires in 2005, and beyond if he is reappointed by the Court. 

“Melvin has long been an integral part of the Rules Committee,” said Court of Special Appeals Chief Judge Joseph F. Murphy, Jr., Chair of the Rules Committee. “The depth and breadth of his legal knowledge is unparalleled.”

During the luncheon, Sykes received a testimonial from the Judges of the Court of Appeals of Maryland, a Governor’s Citation from Maryland Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, and recognition from both houses of the Maryland General Assembly. 

For more information on Mr. Sykes, or to set up an interview, please contact the Court Information Office at 410/260-1488.