Subin picks up six-figure paycheck from MontCo A political ally of Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett found the time to handle nearly 90 cases for his private law firm while collecting almost $160,000 annually in salary and benefits to head a commission that formally meets four times a year, records show.
Although Leggett’s office is spending $158,464 on former County Councilman Michael Subin’s compensation, which Leggett said reflects a heavy workload, the Rockville lawyer maintained a steady stream of legal cases since being appointed to the county post four years ago. As director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Commission, Subin is tasked with “coordinating communication” among law enforcement agencies.
But now Leggett is recommending a full-time job for Subin ?– and roughly $195,000 in total compensation — raising questions from some officials about how Subin can maintain a law firm while potentially collecting an even more lucrative salary.
“I’m trying to phase it out; I won’t be taking new clients,” Subin told The Washington Examiner of his law practice, before adding that he would take cases that were “a one-shot deal.”
He later clarified, “If I have to go to court during the day, I’ll be taking leave if I cannot make up the time.”
Subin’s most recent case was last month, according to court records.
However, some Montgomery officials have questioned the wisdom of a six-figure salary for a position formerly filled by other staffers.
“It would be better if the county executive would show some leadership by spelling out a vision for what he wants this commission to accomplish and then assign the job to someone within his branch to carry it out,” said Councilman Hans Riemer, D-at large. “I don’t see a compelling argument.”
A council panel, including Council President Valerie Ervin, signed off on expanding Subin’s role to include zoning and planning hearings. However, approval from the full council remains in question.
“Rather than applaud us for saving money, there’s people with an ax to grind with him,” Leggett said.
When asked if the arrangement would force Subin to curtail his private practice, Leggett said, “I’m not sure. I’ll have to see. He’s not doing much criminal work [at his law practice] now.”
Court records show that Subin had two federal liens placed on his Gaithersburg home for unpaid taxes — one of $18,153.97 for 2005 and 2006 and the other for $7,118.15 from 2009 taxes. Both cases have since been closed. Subin also had a foreclosure filing on his house in 2009, which was later dismissed.
Subin and Leggett were voted onto the County Council 25 years ago as members of the same political slate, and the lawyer has remained a steadfast supporter of the suburb’s top elected official since leaving the body after two decades. He gave $25 to Leggett’s campaign in 2007.
