The Marion County Judicial Selection Committee announced on March 14 that it has determined the suitability of sixteen incumbent Superior Court judges for another term, with fifteen found suitable and one not. The decision means that fifteen judges will appear on the November ballot for voter approval, while Judge Gary Miller was deemed unsuitable and will not be eligible for retention.
The committee’s review process is mandated by Indiana law and involves evaluating each judge based on factors such as improvements to the administration of justice, judicial temperament, patience, decisiveness, dedication, and any public or private disciplinary matters. According to statute, a judge is presumed suitable unless at least nine out of fourteen committee members vote otherwise. The committee itself comprises appointees from the legislature, major political parties, four bar associations, and two appellate judges.
To reach its decisions, the committee conducted public interviews with each judge and reviewed their written submissions. Members also met privately with the judges, observed courtroom proceedings firsthand, spoke with references, reviewed feedback from local attorneys, and consulted confidentially with the Executive Director of the Office of Judicial and Attorney Regulation regarding compliance with the Code of Judicial Conduct.
After this comprehensive evaluation process, fifteen judges were approved to stand for retention in November. Judge Gary Miller was found not suitable; he may complete his current term through December 31, 2026 but will not appear on the ballot. The committee stated it will seek applications to fill this upcoming vacancy at a later date.
This process underscores ongoing efforts to ensure judicial accountability and maintain public trust in Marion County’s courts by regularly reviewing judicial performance before allowing further terms.
