Judge of the Johnson Circuit Court, 8th Judicial Circuit Choose 1
Indiana circuit courts are jury trial courts with unlimited trial jurisdiction over all criminal and civil cases heard in the state. Typically, circuit courts hear cases that are outside the jurisdiction of other courts. These types of cases include:Cases involving felony charges and any lesser offenses included in a felony chargeGeneral civil claims beyond the jurisdiction of the other trial courts in the stateCivil equity casesDomestic relations casesJuvenile matters (circuit courts share jurisdiction with superior courts over some types of juvenile cases, such as termination of parental rights, juvenile delinquency, child abuse, and child neglect cases)Mental health and probate cases (circuit courts share jurisdiction with superior courts in these types of cases)In addition to this, Indiana circuit courts also have appellate jurisdiction over decisions rendered by the state’s city and town courts. A circuit court judge serves a six-year term. Adapted from https://indianacourtrecords.us/circuit-court/ and https://ballotpedia.org/Indiana_judicial_elections.
Biographical Information
Campaign Mailing Address
5 E. Jefferson Street
Franklin, IN 46131
Franklin, IN 46131
What inspired you to become a judge?
I graduated from Franklin College in 1989. I was not born or raised in Johnson County, but I really connected with the community during my college years. After graduating from law school, I returned to Franklin with my wife and began practicing law here, both in the public and private sectors. An opportunity to sit as judge presented itself in 2015 and I jumped at the chance. Serving in this role has, without question, been the greatest privilege of my professional life.
What are the most pressing community issues related to the courts and law enforcement?
Two (2) issues predominate my thoughts: (1) The concerning level of incidents involving juveniles and the possession and use of firearms; and (2) Opportunities for meaningful and consistent access to mental health and substance abuse treatment for persons in the criminal justice system.
What can the courts do to relieve or reduce foreclosures and evictions in order to help provide more secure housing for Johnson County residents?
My jurisdiction extends only to family law and criminal matters, as such, I'm not knowledgeable enough to give an informed response to this question.
If a party in your courtroom is poorly represented by an unprepared or ineffective lawyer, how would you handle the situation?
I would bring the attorney back to my chambers and explain my concerns. It is not enough for a judge to interfere with a litigant's right to choose counsel based on the judge's opinion that there is a better way to litigate the case. A judge should only intercede if there is reliable evidence that the attorney is not meeting his or her obligations under the rules of professional conduct. If I deemed that an attorney was violating controlling professional canons, I would immediately urge the attorney to step away from the case. If counsel refused to take this step, I would contact the Indiana Disciplinary Commission.
Should a judge use their role to educate the Johnson County community about the courts? If yes, what are some ways this can be done?
Absolutely. I have appeared at Johnson County schools to speak to students about my job and the role of a judge. I also serve as a judge for students participating in mock trial competitions.