John R. Stierhoff
John’s experience and reputation before state and local legislative bodies are augmented by the depth of experience of the Venable team of state and local government lawyers capable of representing clients before a broad range of state and local elected officials and agencies.
John is well known for the creative and thoughtful approach he has honed through decades of experience, serving as counsel for both public and private sector clients, and for his hard work as a steadfast advocate for his clients. John has consistently ranked among the most prominent lobbyists in Annapolis. His strategic advice and counsel, as well as his political insight, have established his reputation as a complex problem solver.
Prior to entering the private sector, John served as counsel in the Maryland State House for 12 years. Between 1986 and 1994, he served as chief of staff and counsel to State Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr. and participated in the passage of critical statewide legislation regarding tort, higher education, healthcare, and election law reform. He began his government service career in 1982, and in 1983 was appointed as counsel to the Senate of Maryland’s Judicial Proceedings Committee. He also served as director of government relations for the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of the State of Maryland, the State Medical Society.
From 1994 through 2000, John was partner in the law firm of Evans & Stierhoff, and in 2000 he joined Funk & Bolton, a Baltimore-based firm.
Related Practices
Related Industries
Experience
Government Experience
- Counsel, The Senate of Maryland, Judicial Proceedings Committee
- Chief of Staff and Counsel, The Senate of Maryland, Office of Senator Thomas V. "Mike" Miller, Jr.
Representative Matters
- Representation of clients on legislative and regulatory matters, and state and local procurement matters
- Successfully secured significant operating and capital budget appropriations for organizations at both the state and local level
Representative Clients
Construction or Renovation of Maryland State Landmarks
- Baltimore Convention Center
- Baltimore Museum of Art
- City of Bowie
- Enoch Pratt Free Library
- Lexington Market
- Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland at College Park
- McKeldin Plaza
- Memorial Stadium
- Minnegan Stadium, Towson University
- National Aquarium in Baltimore
Corporate
- Baltimore Gas & Electric Company
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Domtar Corporation
- Fort Orange Press
- Jai Medical Systems
Trade Associations
- Marine Trades Association of Maryland
- Maryland Academy of Physician Assistants
- Maryland DC Delaware Broadcasters Association
- Maryland Defense Counsel
- Maryland Optometric Association
- State Law Enforcement Officers Labor Alliance
Insights
Credentials
Education
- J.D. University of Baltimore School of Law 1981
- B.A. Loyola College 1977
Bar Admissions
- Maryland
Professional Memberships and Activities
- Member, Study Commission on Lobbyist Ethics, State of Maryland, 2000
- Member, Special Study Commission on the Maryland Public Ethics Law, State of Maryland, 1998 (Appointed by the president of the Senate and the Speaker of the House; the committee was chaired by Congressman Benjamin Cardin)
Recognition
- The Best Lawyers in America
- Lawyer of the Year, 2024
- Government Relations Practice, 2016 – 2025
- The Daily Record, Lobbying & Government Affairs Power List, 2024
- Maryland Food Bank, Hunger Advocate Award – Corporate Volunteer of the Year, 2015
- Loyola College, Carroll Medal, 1993 (Awarded for outstanding professional contributions and service)
- Baltimore Business Journal, 40 Under 40
- Martindale-Hubbell, AV® Peer Review Rated
Community
Pro Bono
John represents a wide range of clients pro bono:
- Baltimore Child Abuse Center
- Maryland Family Network
- Maryland Food Bank
- SEED School of Maryland
- Young Audiences of Maryland