The Ethics of Judicial Campaigns: Part 1 (see Part 2) A whirlwind of activity, the pulse of adrenaline, and general excitement (and despair) loom in the air—it’s the change of season. Racing, you say? No, it’s judicial campaign season. With the primary elections approaching, I have received an increasing number of questions about judicial elections and campaigns. Because the questions often are recurring, I thought a … [Read more...] about On Your Mark, Get Set…Go?
Cover Stories
Celebrating Constitution Day
In September, forty-eight judges and one Supreme Court staff attorney visited schools across the state in celebration of Constitution Day. September 17, 2013 marked the 226th anniversary of the 1787 signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia. For decades September 17th was noted on calendars as “Citizenship Day,” but rarely received much attention. That all changed in 2004 when Senator Robert Byrd of West Vir … [Read more...] about Celebrating Constitution Day
Juvenile Law: Special Edition – Introduction
The Indiana Court Times Editorial Board is pleased to present this special edition on Juvenile Law. Traditionally, Court Times includes stories and information on a variety of topics, but the Board decided our readers would appreciate a special issue dedicated to how the courts serve children in our state. There are many exciting initiatives underway designed to improve the courts’ interaction with children. This s … [Read more...] about Juvenile Law: Special Edition – Introduction
Veteran's Court: Restorative Justice
The first defendant called on the Initial Hearing docket is a 25-year old, well-mannered and well-groomed, male who stands at attention, but his eye contact is distant and blank. He is charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, a Class D Felony. Service members who run afoul of the law in returning to civilian life are appearing before Indiana’s courts at a greater frequency due to the Iraq and Afghanistan w … [Read more...] about Veteran's Court: Restorative Justice
Lawmakers Boost Public Defense Funding
The Constitution of the United States and the Indiana Constitution require that indigent criminal and other defendants be provided adequate legal representation. In Indiana, the fiscal responsibility for this service falls primarily on county governments. In 2012, the total public defense costs in Indiana were in excess of $71 million. Through the state Indiana Public Defense Fund, counties receive partial … [Read more...] about Lawmakers Boost Public Defense Funding