This is the fifth of our Court Times articles that highlight up close and personal a member of the Indiana Judiciary. Knox Circuit Court Judge Sherry Biddinger Gregg is our judge featured in this issue. Judge Gregg was first elected as Circuit Court Judge in 1998, and re-elected in 2004. She graduated from the University of Evansville, magna cum laude, and received her Doctor of Jurisprudence from Indiana University School of Law at Indianapolis. She is a member of the Supreme Court Judicial Technology and Automation Committee and the Judicial Conference Judicial Education Committee.
What do you like most, and least, about being a trial court judge?
What I like the most about being a trial court judge is the intellectual and administrative challenge, and the fact that I have an opportunity to handle something different every day, including the opportunity to help people resolve their own differences. What I like the least is when my role prevents me from providing assistance to self-represented litigants.
What was your major at the University of Evansville and why did you decide to study law?
I received a degree in Legal Administration, which was a combination of Business and Pre-Law courses. I studied in this area because I knew I wanted to study law from the time I was a child. A family friend was a lawyer, whom I looked up to very much, and we had frequent conversations about the practice of law throughout the years.
What would you do if you were not a judge and what do you like to do when you are not on the bench?
What else is there? I would farm and raise cattle and horses – AND – I would return to the practice of law. However, having been on the bench for nearly 12 years now, I can’t imagine a more fulfilling day at work anywhere. When I am not on the bench, I relieve stress by spending time with my family, and by riding my Harley Davidson motorcycle and my horses.
Who are the people you most admire?
I admire a “type” of people: those who believe in God, who have values, who work hard, and who believe in a job well done.
When did you first start riding motorcycles and how would you describe the experience of riding a motorcycle?
I actually didn’t start riding “street” motorcycles until a few years ago, but I have already logged over 13,000 miles! I rode around the farm with my boys on dirt bikes and ATV’s, but when I began riding on the road, I started out right by taking a motorcycle rider safety course and practiced, practiced, practiced. The more you ride, the more comfortable you get. It’s a great way to enjoy freedom, relieve stress, see the countryside, meet people from every walk of life, and spend time contemplating life. If I ride my bike to and from work, I arrive in the morning refreshed and I arrive back at home in the evening calm and ready to enjoy my family.
Where did you grow up and how would you describe your childhood?
I grew up in the country outside of Washington, Indiana. I had a simple, wonderful childhood with two loving, hard-working parents and two sisters. We enjoyed country life, animals, family, and our parents made sure we had a good, solid religious and educational background.
Do you have a favorite quote(s)?
Yes. “You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own and you know what you know. You’re the guy (gal) who’ll decide where to go”. – Dr. Seuss.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
My very favorite vacation spot is right here at Home.
What is your favorite meal/recipe/restaurant?
Meal: anything with chocolate. Recipe: anything with chocolate. Restaurant: any place that serves chocolate.