Democrat
Barbara H. Meiklejohn (incumbent) 
Where you live: Clarksburg
Date of birth: May 26, 1956
Current occupation and employer (may also list up to two other jobs you’ve held); if retired, list your last job and employer: Current elected Clerk of the Court. I have been with the judiciary for 42 years.
Political experience (public offices held and when, as well as unsuccessful campaigns for office and which years): I am the current Clerk of the Court. That is the only office I have ever run for.
Campaign information:
1 – Why are you running for this office? (75 words max)
The judiciary is my passion. Since elected Clerk in 2014, I’ve increased community outreach and education by creating internship programs, providing community-based organizations with tools to navigate the court system, and engaging in local job fairs. It is vital to continue these current programs as well as to continue preparing court staff for the implementation of MDEC. I am the most qualified, knowledgeable, and experienced candidate, and my continued leadership will ensure a seamless transition.
2 – What is the most important issue in this race and what specific plans do you have to address it? (100 words max)
The most important issue is the implementation of Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) in Montgomery County. MDEC is the new state-wide computer system that will take the courts from paper to paperless and is scheduled for implementation next year. I have already begun the training process with court staff. As a member of the Gap Analysis Work Group, I am reviewing the business practices and our current case management system to determine the changes needed for the implementation MDEC. I am also a member of the team helping to develop a differentiated case management (DCM) enhancement for the MDEC system.
3 – What experience (work, political or other) has prepared you to hold this office? (100 words max)
I have worked in public service with the judiciary for over 42 years. Through dedication, knowledge, and dependability, I was promoted up the ranks of the court system and elected Clerk of the Court in 2014. I am uniquely qualified to know what is important to staff, management, and the residents of Montgomery County, and I am the only candidate with knowledge of the daily operations of the Circuit Court. I am a member of the Conference of Circuit Court Clerks, the Circuit Court Clerks Association, and the Mid-Atlantic Association for Court Management, where I sit on the advisory board.
