Patricia Jessamy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Honorable
Patricia C. Jessamy
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| State's Attorney of Baltimore | |
| In office 1995–2011 |
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| Preceded by | Stuart O. Simms |
| Succeeded by | Gregg Bernstein |
| Constituency | Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 26, 1948 Hollandale, Mississippi |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Howard Jessamy |
| Alma mater | Jackson State University University of Mississippi School of Law |
| Profession | Attorney |
| Website | http://www.stattorney.org/article01.html |
Patricia Coats Jessamy was an important lawyer and public official in Baltimore, Maryland. She served as the State's Attorney of Baltimore, which is like the chief prosecutor for the city. She was first chosen for this job in 1995 and was re-elected three times by the people of Baltimore.
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Early Life and Education
Patricia Jessamy was born on July 26, 1948, in Hollandale, Mississippi. She worked hard in school and went on to college.
College and Law School
In 1970, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from Jackson State University. She then continued her studies at the University of Mississippi School of Law. She graduated from law school in 1974. That same year, she was allowed to practice law in Maryland.
Her Career as a Lawyer
Patricia Jessamy made history in Baltimore. She was the first woman ever to become the Baltimore State’s Attorney. This was a big step for women in law and government.
Starting in Law
She began her legal career in Maryland in 1985. Her first job was as an assistant state’s attorney. This meant she helped the main State's Attorney with legal cases.
Becoming Deputy State's Attorney
In 1987, the State’s Attorney at the time, Stuart Simms, saw her talent. He appointed her as the deputy state’s attorney for administration. In this role, she helped manage the office. She was in charge of money matters, budgets, and hiring staff. She also created the Victim Assistance Program. This program helps people who have been affected by crimes.
Leading the State's Attorney Office
In 1995, Stuart Simms left his job. The Circuit Court then chose Patricia Jessamy to become the new State's Attorney. She was chosen by everyone on the court. After that, she ran for re-election and won three times. She won in November 1998, 2002, and 2006.
Later Career and Elections
Patricia Jessamy thought about running for Mayor of Baltimore in 1999. However, she decided not to run for that position. In 2010, she ran for re-election as State's Attorney again. But this time, she was defeated in the primary election by Gregg Bernstein.
