The Indiana General Assembly focused on criminal code reform during the 2014 and 2015 legislative sessions. House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1006, authored both years by Representative Greg Steuerwald, R-Avon, rewrote criminal penalties and sentencing statutes to keep low-level offenders in local communities where they will have better access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, as well as rehabilitation … [Read more...] about Grant program working to keep low-level criminals out of prison
Articles
$450,000 Awarded to Assist Unrepresented and Limited English Proficiency Litigants
For the last decade, trial courts across the country have increasingly faced the tough legal, logistical, and ethical dilemmas that often accompany cases involving unrepresented litigants (URLs). Without sufficient knowledge of court processes and procedures, URLs may miss important deadlines or fail to take key actions associated with the handling of their case. Judges and court staff can become frustrated at an … [Read more...] about $450,000 Awarded to Assist Unrepresented and Limited English Proficiency Litigants
Yes Virginia, Judges can be Santa Claus
Dear Ms. Meiring, With the holiday season approaching, Charity Y would like to know whether it is ethically permissible for our local judge to dress up like Santa Claus and pass out donated presents to the less fortunate kids in the community at our annual holiday party. Sincerely, Virginia, Director of Charity Y Ah, the holidays - ‘tis the season for charitable giving and activities. As prominent members of the l … [Read more...] about Yes Virginia, Judges can be Santa Claus
Community Relations Committee: Stealth Warrior for the Judiciary
“So what does the Community Relations Committee do anyway?” As chair of the Community Relations Committee, I hear this question on a regular basis. And I’m always happy to let judges know of the important, yet quiet work that is done by the Committee. One of the primary goals of the Community Relations Committee is to educate the public about the work done by Indiana’s judiciary. The Committee has worked to achieve … [Read more...] about Community Relations Committee: Stealth Warrior for the Judiciary
Second Chances: Indiana's Evolving Expungement Law
While still a subject of some controversy, expungement, the process by which an Indiana citizen can seal past criminal records, has undergone significant revision since its inception. In 2012, Indiana lawmakers enacted legislation popularly known as the “Second Chance Law.” Under the 2012 procedure, only those convicted of misdemeanors and non-violent class D felonies were eligible, and the remedy resulted in an ord … [Read more...] about Second Chances: Indiana's Evolving Expungement Law