Former Baltimore County Sheriff Norman M. Pepersack Jr., a Republican, moved to a surprising early lead last night in the general election race against Democratic opponent R. Jay Fisher in his bid to recapture the sheriff's job he lost in 1998.

With 29 of 209 precincts in, Pepersack had a lead of several thousand votes.

Pepersack, 68, of Perry Hall was sheriff for eight years before he was defeated by current Sheriff Anne K. Strasdauskas four years ago.

Fisher, a veteran Baltimore City police lieutenant, trounced Strasdauskas in September's Democratic primary after she became embroiled in several issues regarding her public office, including questions about ethics violations.

A former Maryland State Police trooper, Pepersack campaigned on restoring discipline to the office that provides security for the Towson courthouse, transports prisoners and serves legal documents.

The job of sheriff pays $70,000 annually.

In another courthouse contest, longtime Circuit Court clerk Suzanne Mensh, a Democrat, faced a challenge from William "Bill" Hill, a clerk in her office.

In the race for Register of Wills, incumbent Grace G. Connolly faced a challenge from Republican George W. McCarter, a state mediator.

The incumbent Orphans' Court judges, Democrats Theresa A. Lawler, Julie L. Ensor and Gloria J. Butta faced Republicans Louis Luperini, Ray Allen and John Bunch.