Michelle Karczeski inaugurated as Harford County's first female-elected clerk of the circuit court

Dec. 2—Lifelong Harford County resident Michelle Karczeski was inaugurated Thursday after being the first woman elected as the county's clerk of the circuit court.

The Bel Air resident succeeds Linda Settle, who has served in the position since James Reilly retired in September.

Numerous county officials were present for the ceremony Thursday evening in the Harford County Circuit Court's ceremonial courtroom, including County Executive-elect Bob Cassilly, County Council President Patrick Vincenti and Bel Air Mayor Kevin Bianca.

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Karczeski has worked with clerks of circuit courts across the state over the last several years. During her time as a senior financial systems project manager with the Maryland Judiciary, she helped implement a jury management system in Cecil County that streamlined business processes for the court and the public. The system was later expanded to other counties.

Katherine Hager, the clerk of the circuit court for Queen Anne's County, said she's known Karczeski for 15 years and was impressed with her technical knowledge.

Kimberly Wagner, a longtime friend of Karczeski's and member of her campaign, spoke about the incoming clerk's character, saying she was a caring and concerned person.

"I am confident she will carry out her responsibilities with grace, skill and dedication," Wagner said.

Circuit Court Judge Yolanda Curtin performed the swearing in, with a Bible held by Karczeski's parents.

Karczeski addressed the crowd, noting her pride in Harford County as her home and her desire to make the courthouse a more accessible place for the community.

"I pledge to do my best," she said.