George Brent Jr. (September 28, 1817 – January 6, 1881)[1] was a justice of the Maryland Court of Appeals from 1867 to 1881.
[2] Born in Charles County, Maryland, to George and Matilda (Thomas) Brent, his father's ancestors (including lawyer/nun Margaret Brent) had owned land in that area of Maryland since about 1640.
He was "recognized as a lawyer of distinguished ability", and, as a judge, "presided over his court with much ease and decorum, his decisions showing great research and legal knowledge and acumen".
[3] Brent served until his death of heart disease at his home in Charles County, following a lengthy illness, at the age of 63.
[1] Brent was married to his cousin, Catherine Merrick, with whom he had eleven children.