Paul Mark Sandler
Retired Partner
Paul Mark Sandler
With a legacy spanning decades, Mr. Sandler leaves an indelible mark on the legal community, both in Maryland and across the United States.
Known for representing a wide array of notable clients, including David F. Rosen, the chief fundraiser for Hillary Rodham Clinton’s 2000 United States Senate campaign, Brent Redstone in a lawsuit against National Amusements, and Jeffrey and Karol Levitt in the Old Court S&L litigation, Mr. Sandler has excelled in trials and appeals, both civil and criminal, in state and federal courts. His reputation as a skilled and tenacious litigator extends far beyond Maryland, earning him recognition on a national stage.
Mr. Sandler’s belief that “advocacy is an art, not a science” has guided his approach throughout his career. This philosophy underscores his ability to navigate complex legal challenges with creativity, precision, and a deep understanding of human dynamics. His fascination with the ‘aura of great advocates in history’ has informed his practice, emphasizing the enduring lessons of eloquence, integrity, and perseverance that resonate through time.
Beyond the courtroom, Mr. Sandler has been a prolific author, educator, and mentor. As the founder and former chair of the Litigation Section of the Maryland State Bar Association and past Secretary of the Litigation Section of the American Bar Association, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the standards of litigation practice.
The Maryland State Bar Association and its Litigation Section honored Mr. Sandler with a remarkable and well-deserved distinction: The Paul Mark Sandler Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Continuing Legal Education. As the inaugural recipient, and award namesake, Mr. Sandler has set the standard for excellence in legal education. Additionally, as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, he previously served as chair of the College’s one-day boot camp trial training program for young lawyers, helping prepare and elevate the next generation of trial attorneys.
Mr. Sandler’s contributions to legal scholarship are equally impressive. As a monthly columnist for The Maryland Daily Record, he has shared his insights and experiences with a broad audience, reminding us that advocacy, at its best, is not only about achieving outcomes but also about teaching, inspiring, and elevating the profession. Moreover, his extensive bibliography includes Pleading Causes of Action in Maryland, Appellate Practice for the Maryland Lawyer, and other books and articles on trial advocacy, which serve as invaluable resources for lawyers seeking to hone their craft.
In addition to his ongoing legal writing and active participation in ABA, MSBA, ACTL, and Inns of Court events, Mr. Sandler enjoys spending time with his wife, Peggie, visiting his sons and grandsons in Hong Kong and New York, and pursuing his passions and playing the harmonica.
Luis Guinot
In Memoriam
Remembering Ambassador Luis Guinot, Jr.
The late Ambassador Luis Guinot, Jr. brought a distinguished career in public service, diplomacy, and international law to Shapiro Sher, where he served as a partner and led the firm’s International Trade and Commerce practice.
Before entering private practice, Ambassador Guinot was appointed Assistant General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Administrator of the Office of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in Washington, D.C. From 1990 to 1993, he served as U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica, where he advanced U.S. policy objectives and economic engagement throughout Latin America.
Ambassador Guinot represented the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, private Puerto Rican clients, and multinational companies involved in global trade. A thought leader on U.S.–Latin American relations, he wrote extensively on diplomacy and trade and spoke at major conferences and forums across the Americas.
Among his many contributions was organizing the “Doing Business in Latin America and the Caribbean” seminar in Baltimore, which brought together senior diplomats, Latin American officials, and corporate leaders to connect with local and regional business executives.
Ambassador Guinot’s contributions were recognized by the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility, which named him a Fortune Board Honoree. He also served on the boards of TECO Energy and Tampa Electric Co.
Ambassador Guinot’s legacy at Shapiro Sher reflects a career defined by insight, diplomacy, and a lasting commitment to international cooperation.
