The Indiana Supreme Court is interested in obtaining comments from judges, attorneys and the general public as it considers changes to the following Rules of Court:
Waiver of Counsel by Juveniles:
new rule dealing with procedure before a child can say he does not want an attorney
Electronic Transcripts:
allow certain electronic transcripts to be filed on appeal
Electronically Filed Briefs:
two proposals for submitting electronic briefs
Acknowledgement of Oral Arguments:
deals with the oral argument order handed down by the appellate clerk
Temporary Appearances in Criminal Cases:
provides procedures for withdrawal of representation
Small Claims Venue:
brings township small claims court venue rules in line with similar courts
Summary Judgment:
deals with a trial court judge’s authority to alter certain time limits
Special Judge Selection:
proposal clarifies the selection of a special judge
Rules of Evidence:
revisions to increase the degree of conformity of Indiana’s Rules to Federal Rules
The descriptions above are brief outlines of the proposed changes. Details about the proposed rule changes can be found at http://courts.in.gov/4044.htm.
The nine-member Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure is reviewing the possible changes. The Committee was created by the Court to conduct a continuous study of the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure and other rules as directed by the Court. The Committee must report to the Court recommendations and proposed amendments directed at simplicity in procedure, just determination of litigation, and elimination of unjustified expense and delay.
The Committee is collecting public comments about the possible rule changes until June 5, 2013. Comments can be sent via email or in writing to the following addresses:
[email protected]
Lilia G. Judson, Executive Director
Indiana Supreme Court
Division of State Court Administration
30 South Meridian Street, Suite 500
Indianapolis, IN 46204