This is the third of our Court Times articles that highlight up close and personal a member of the Indiana Judiciary. Lake Superior Court, County Division #2 Judge Sheila M. Moss is our judge featured in this issue. She began her public service in Lake County first in the Public Defender’s Office and then as a Deputy Prosecutor for 8 years, including being the Chief Deputy in 4-D Court. Governor Evan Bayh appointed her to the bench as Superior Court Judge in January, 1993 replacing retired Judge Paul Stanko. Judge Moss was elected as Judge in 1996, 2002, and recently re-elected in November 2008.
What do you like most, and least, about being a trial court judge?
I appreciate the possibility of having a positive effect on the lives of citizens. I like the interaction with members of the public and being able to address injustice, even if on a basic level. I am not crazy about issuing jail sentences, but recognize that they can be earned just as second chances can also be earned.
Why did you decide to study law?
I was reared during the late 60’s and early 70’s. I welcomed the opportunity to address societal inequalities through the use of our system of laws. My husband, Gilbert King, Jr. is also an attorney who practices law in Gary and sits on the Indiana Board of Law Examiners.
What was your major at Valparaiso University?
Political science was my major. I had a concentration in both geology and social work.
What would you do if you were not a judge?
If I had not pursued the law I would have looked at professions as widely varied as social work and geologist.
What do you like to do when you are not on the bench?
I live close to both the National Lakeshore and Lake Michigan, so I love to explore the land forms surrounding my home. I also love to use a recent Christmas gift, a telescope, to explore the constellations with our local astronomy club in Calumet.
Who are the people you most admire?
That is an easy one: my Mom and Dad.
What are your favorite books and have you read any recently or reading now that you really like?
I recently finished reading Stealing Lincoln’s Body by Thomas J. Craughwell, Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin, and Murder in the White City by Eric Larson. I am also a fan of reading with my son, Daniel, who is in the eighth grade. We just finished the Rick Riordan series of Percy Jackson and City of Glass.
Where did you grow up and how would you describe your childhood?
I was born and reared in Gary, Indiana. My childhood was good, kickball in the street and softball in the sand lot for summer, and snow castles in the winter.
Do you have a favorite quote(s)?
I have some quotes with which I strongly agree. They are not overly philosophical but I like the way they roll off my tongue.
“Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the past inaccessible.”
– Author unknown
“I have learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
– Maya Angelou
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
I love a good beach in the Caribbean. My favorites are on St. John US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, and Turks and Caicos Islands where the snorkeling is fabulous.
What is your favorite meal/recipe/restaurant?
A good steak house! Too many to list here! But if given my choice I prefer Rosebud Italian Steak House, on Walton Street in Chicago.