Baltimore, MD — A once-prominent Maryland medical malpractice attorney, Stephen L. Snyder, experienced a profound professional decline after he was found guilty of attempting to extort $25 million from the University of Maryland Medical System. The conviction encompassed a single count of attempted extortion along with seven counts of violating the federal Travel Act, an unsettling end to a distinguished career.
Snyder, 77, was notorious in legal circles for his aggressive litigation style, encapsulated by his catchphrase, “Don’t just sue them, Snyder them.” However, the tables turned dramatically during his trial when he was detained overnight by order of a federal judge for contempt after violating multiple court directives while representing himself.
During the trial, Snyder argued that his proposal to the medical system was a legitimate consulting offer aimed at improving its transplant program and averting potential tragedies. Despite this, prosecutors painted a different picture, claiming Snyder leveraged the threat of negative publicity against the program to manipulate the institution into accepting the lucrative consulting agreement. This deal, they argued, would also conveniently prevent Snyder from launching future malpractice suits, posing a conflict of interest.
Snyder’s defense also hinged on his assertion of entrapment, suggesting that the medical system, while cooperating with the FBI, led him to believe negotiations were genuine as they recorded his communications.
Throughout his career, Snyder achieved significant success, securing several multimillion-dollar settlements and jury verdicts, which enhanced his reputation considerably. However, by his admission during the trial, his capability had waned, exacerbated by deteriorating health and a struggle to adhere to courtroom protocol. His performance in court was frequently disrupted by the judge’s sustained objections to his approach, culminating in a contempt ruling after problematic conduct during his closing arguments.
The overseeing U.S. District Judge, Deborah Boardman, found repeated fault with Snyder’s courtroom demeanor, noting his defiance of instructions not to argue with witnesses or introduce previously barred subjects. This behavior persisted even as Snyder delivered a lengthy 75-minute closing argument, defying the judge’s prior cautions.
With Snyder’s sentencing set for February 25, he faces the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for each count of attempted extortion and violations of the Travel Act, marking a steep descent for the once-lauded attorney.
The case serves as a cautionary tale of how professional misconduct and ethical breaches can irrevocably tarnish a legacy built over decades, transforming respect and achievement into public and legal censure.
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