In nearly 20 years on the bench in Anne Arundel County, Judge Michael Loney became known as a thoughtful and fair jurist.

In 2005, he helped start a badly needed "drug court" to treat adult Circuit Court offenders. He also has overseen the family law cases.

Loney would like to stay on the job for longer. But in July, he'll be forced to retire. That's because the Maryland Constitution bars judges from serving past age 70.

It's a rule that has outlived any usefulness and means the loss of experienced judges who want to keep working.

There are some things Loney would still like to do - try a...