The community of Carroll County is mourning the loss of former State’s Attorney Thomas E. Hickman, Esquire, who passed away suddenly on January 27, 2024, at the age of 77. Hickman, a highly respected attorney and public servant, dedicated his life to upholding justice and serving the people of Carroll County.

Thomas Hickman began his legal career in 1974 when he was elected as the State’s Attorney for Carroll County at the young age of 27. He served in this role until 1994, earning a reputation as a formidable prosecutor and a tireless advocate for the community.

Born and raised in the Morrell Park neighborhood of Baltimore City, Hickman attended Edmondson High School. He excelled in lacrosse and continued his education at the prestigious Virginia Military Institute. Hickman went on to earn his law degree from the University of Baltimore.

After leaving office as State’s Attorney, Hickman joined the law firm Hickman, Ulsch, and Holniker, which later became Hickman, Ulsch, McFaul & Wright, P.A. Throughout the years, the firm underwent several name changes, but Hickman’s name remained constant, along with his former Deputy State’s Attorney, Edward Ulsch, Esq.

Hickman’s dedication to serving extended beyond the courtroom. He served in the Air National Guard Judge Advocate General’s Corps, achieving the rank of full colonel before retiring. In addition, Hickman shared his legal expertise as an adjunct professor of sociology at what is now known as McDaniel College in Westminster. He taught a course on Police, Courts, and Corrections, imparting his knowledge to aspiring criminal justice professionals.

Hickman’s commitment to justice and public service led him to serve as a United Nations prosecutor overseas in Kosovo in the early 2000s and later in Afghanistan. Despite his extensive overseas deployments, Hickman continued to practice law in Westminster until his untimely passing.

Edward Ulsch, Hickman’s long-time partner, friend, and colleague, remembered their initial meeting while working at Montgomery Ward in Baltimore. Ulsch described Hickman as a “great trial lawyer,” particularly skilled in jury trials. Beyond his legal prowess, Hickman was also known for his devotion to his family, including his first wife, Gail, his second wife, Susan, and his daughter, Jessica. Hickman enjoyed spending time on his twenty-acre farmlet off Uniontown Road, where he would often walk his beloved dogs.

Current State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker expressed his condolences, stating, “The residents of Carroll County have lost a dedicated public servant who consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to upholding justice. Tom Hickman served his country with honor and used his legal skills to make a difference both locally and internationally. It is an honor to continue his legacy and seek justice for the people of Carroll County as the State’s Attorney.”

The entire Carroll County community is mourning the loss of Thomas E. Hickman, Esq., a passionate advocate, esteemed attorney, and beloved public servant. His contributions to the legal profession and his dedication to justice will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

For more information, please contact:
Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: ccstatesattorney@carrollcountymd.gov