Celebrating the Remarkable Career of Paul Mark Sandler
Paul Mark Sandler
After a distinguished career defined by excellence, dedication, and a profound impact on the legal profession, our longtime friend and colleague, Paul Mark Sandler, has announced his retirement from the practice of law. With a legacy spanning decades, Mr. Sandler leaves an indelible mark on the legal community, both in Maryland and across the United States.
“Paul’s career exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and dedication to the practice of law,” said William E. Carlson, President of Shapiro Sher. “He has not only served his clients with distinction but has also made an undeniable impact on our Firm and the broader legal community. We are incredibly grateful for his leadership and contributions.”
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, Paul 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. Additionally, as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, he chairs the College’s one-day trial training program for young lawyers where his programs have empowered countless attorneys to excel in their careers.
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 continuing his legal writing and his involvement with the ABA, MSBA, ACTL, and Inns of Court events, we are certain that Paul looks forward to spending more time with his lovely wife, Peggie, visiting his sons and grandsons in Hong Kong and New York, and enjoying his keen interests in astronomy, equestrian sports, and playing the harmonica. We wish him our very best in his well-deserved retirement.