(From two sites on the Indiana Judicial Website)In Indiana, there are three different kinds of trial courts: circuit courts, superior courts, and local city or town courts. Though these courts have different names, the trial courts are actually more alike than they are different. Trial courts have different names primarily due to accidents of legislative history and local custom, not true differences in the nature or purpose of the courts. The cases these courts hear can vary tremendously from county to county.Superior Courts, created by the Indiana General Assembly, have jurisdiction that generally overlaps with Circuit Courts but can be tailored by the legislature based on local needs. Some have specialized divisions, such as small claims or family law, which impact the types of cases they handle. Unlike constitutionally mandated Circuit Courts, Superior Courts exist only where authorized by the legislature, and their jurisdiction can be modified more easily.Types of Matters AddressedCircuit Courts oversee major civil litigation, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and real estate conflicts. They handle significant criminal cases, particularly felonies, which require jury trials and extended judicial oversight. Probate matters, such as estate administration and guardianships, also fall within their jurisdiction, along with family law issues like divorces and child custody proceedings. Their broad authority stems from their constitutional foundation.Superior Courts, while possessing concurrent jurisdiction, often take on specialized caseloads. Some have dedicated small claims divisions handling disputes up to $10,000, allowing for expedited resolution. Others feature family law divisions that focus exclusively on domestic matters, including paternity determinations and child support modifications. Drug courts and problem-solving courts, which prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration, are frequently housed within Superior Courts, reflecting their adaptability to evolving judicial needs.
Occupation/Background
Attorney
Campaign phone
219-871-1234
One of the greatest obstacles to justice is access—particularly access to legal representation. In LaPorte County, where there are fewer practicing attorneys, individuals can face difficulty finding timely legal help.
When people cannot obtain representation, it can impact their ability to navigate the legal system and affect the resolution of their cases.
While a judge cannot serve as an advocate, a judge can ensure that every person is treated with respect, that proceedings are clear, and that decisions are based on the law and the facts.
My experience has shown how important it is that the courtroom remains accessible, understandable, and fair for everyone.
Judicial costs can be reduced through the thoughtful use of technology and improved scheduling. When routine matters require in-person appearances, courts must allocate staff, security, and courtroom time, which reduces overall efficiency.
Using tools such as video conferencing for appropriate hearings and automated scheduling can streamline dockets, reduce delays, and lower costs for both the court and litigants.
In my practice, I have used technology to resolve matters more efficiently—conducting remote proceedings when appropriate and managing cases to avoid unnecessary hearings. That approach reduces expenses while maintaining fairness and due process.
Efficiency should never come at the expense of justice, but when used properly, technology can improve access and reduce costs for everyone involved.
No. I have not been disciplined by any bar association or judicial conduct commission.
In fact, I have been retained by the Indiana Disciplinary Commission as an expert to evaluate attorney conduct in matters that resulted in discipline. I have also been asked to serve as an expert in professional liability cases.
Those roles reflect a responsibility to assess legal standards objectively and to provide independent judgment when professional conduct is at issue.
I have over 25 years of legal experience representing individuals, businesses, and local government across a wide range of matters. I currently serve as Chief Deputy Prosecutor, handling serious criminal cases and working within the court system daily.
My experience includes civil litigation, appellate practice, and complex disputes affecting both private parties and public entities.
I have also been retained as an expert in professional conduct matters and am frequently asked to teach continuing legal education seminars.
That breadth of experience has required disciplined judgment and a consistent commitment to applying the law fairly.
Occupation/Background
I have been a trial attorney representing clients in the various Federal and State Courts of Northwest Indiana since 1996. I was with the firm of Braje, Nelson & Janes for 28 years and currently represent indigent defendants in Federal Court. I served 26 years as a Public Defender in LaPorte County and was a founding team member of the LaPorte County Veteran's Treatment Court Program.
Campaign phone
219-877-7800
Judges interjecting their own beliefs into the litigation instead of allowing all parties to have their arguments fully and fairly heard. Not timely ruling on matters is also something that is contrary to serving justice to the parties and their disputes.
Holding parties accountable and avoiding the delay of resolving matters that comes from numerous and unwarranted continuances. Proper coordination between courts to ensure uniformity of treatment of parties on similar matters within the same jurisdiction.
NO
I graduated from Purdue University with a BA in 1992 and from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1996. I was with the law firm of Braje, Nelson & Janes in Michigan City for 28 years being a partner for over 20 years. For the past year and a half, I have been employed by a not-for-profit corporation that provides legal representation to indigent persons in Federal Criminal Court.
My entire career has been spent as a trial attorney. I served 26 years as a Public Defender in LaPorte County representing those charged with offenses ranging from Murder, Robbery and Drug offenses to OWI and Theft matters. I have also represented Clients before the Indiana Supreme Court as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
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