News Summary
Stephen L. Snyder, a Baltimore attorney, has been sentenced to six months of house arrest and three years of probation for extorting the University of Maryland Medical System. Known for his aggressive litigation tactics, Snyder’s downfall comes after he attempted to secure $25 million through unethical demands, threatening to damage the institution’s reputation. This case highlights the risks of ethical breaches in the legal profession, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who prioritize greed over integrity.
Infamous Baltimore Attorney Faces Justice: A Fall from Grace
In a case that has captivated the legal community, Stephen L. Snyder, a Baltimore attorney known for his aggressive litigation tactics, has been sentenced to six months of house arrest and three years of probation. This follows his conviction for attempting to extort the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS). The sentencing was handed down on April 3, 2025, following a series of damning revelations about Snyder’s unethical demands for a staggering $25 million.
The Background
Snyder, a recognized medical malpractice attorney, represented two clients who alleged they suffered severe injuries after undergoing organ transplants at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Instead of pursuing a legitimate settlement for his clients, Snyder chose a darker route, threatening to dismantle the transplant department if his monetary demands were not met.
Between January and September 2018, the attorney made a series of explosive demands, insisting that the $25 million payment should be made separately from any settlements regarding his clients. He wielded threats that would make any reasonable person squirm—vowing to launch a public relations campaign that would ominously accuse UMMC of misleading patients into receiving diseased organs.
The Extortion Scheme
His threats included plans to run front-page newspaper ads, orchestrate press conferences, and direct potential transplant patients to his law firm’s website. Snyder’s extortion strategy was layered; he proposed entering into a phony consulting agreement that would obscure the true nature of the payment he sought. During meetings with UMMS attorneys, he even showcased his homemade commercials, which accused the institution of prioritizing profits over patient safety.
A Trial Full of Controversy
Snyder’s downfall culminated in a nine-day trial where he represented himself, vehemently asserting his innocence. He argued that he had no criminal intent, claiming that he was entrapped by law enforcement. However, this defense fell flat during the proceedings, where his lack of adherence to court protocol led to a staggering number of objections—reportedly up to 100 in a single day.
The jury found him guilty of extortion and violating the Travel Act in November 2024. Fed up with Snyder’s continuous disruption of the courtroom, U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman even ordered him to spend a night in jail for contempt of court. Throughout his legal career, Snyder had earned a reputation for securing impressive settlements, totaling hundreds of millions, for his clients. However, this recent conviction is labeled as a “stunning fall from grace.”
Consequences and Reflections
Despite facing a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, Snyder ultimately received a more lenient sentence of house arrest and probation, taking into account his previously commendable legal career. His infamous slogan, “Don’t just sue them, Snyder them,” now serves as a bitter reminder of how far he has strayed from ethical legal practice.
As Snyder embarks on his six-month house arrest, the legal community is left pondering the implications of his actions and the stark reality of a once-prominent attorney succumbing to the temptations of greed and fearmongering. The case stands as a cautionary tale about the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the legal profession and the dire consequences of crossing that line.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Begins Construction of New Comprehensive Cancer Hospital
New Dedicated Cancer Hospital Announced in South Carolina
D’Amore Personal Injury Law Excels in Baltimore’s Legal Scene
Lawyer Under Fire as Controversial Deportation Case Unfolds
Immigration Lawyer Under Fire for Challenging Deportation Case
Paul M. D’Amore: Recognized Lawyer in Multi-Million Dollar Forum
Senator John Fetterman Faces Personal Injury Claim From Lawyer
New Lawyer Takes Charge of Maryland’s U.S. Attorney’s Office
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Baltimore Attorney Faces Justice
- Baltimore Sun: Top Plaintiff’s Attorney Convicted of Extortion
- WBAL: Lawyer Sentenced for Extortion
- Law360: Maryland Attorney Sentenced in High-Profile Case
- Google Search: Stephen L. Snyder
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
