In 1989, the legislature authorized the creation of the Senior Judge program allowing Indiana courts to use the services of retired or former judges to supplement existing judicial resources (IC 33-23-3-1). As envisioned, courts now use senior judges as a replacement in the absence of a regular judge, as a complement to the regular judge or to oversee the processing of certain types of cases or court programs.
The Indiana Supreme Court is responsible for promulgating rules to further define the certification and appointment process for senior judges (IC 33-24-3-7). In response to the continuing growth of the senior judge program, the Supreme Court promulgated Administrative Rule 5 in 2003, which delineated the parameters for the certification and use of senior judges.
Apply for Senior Judge Certification or Recertification
Submit Statement of Intent to Terminate as a Senior Judge
Senior Judge Portal
The Senior Judge Portal is available via INcite to sitting and senior judges. Senior judges can update their profile and submit claims through the INcite application. Sitting judges may view the senior judge roster, including senior judge contact information.
Statistics
2022 Spreadsheet of Senior Judge Appointments and Service
Claims received as of March 14, 2022
2021 Spreadsheet of Senior Judge Appointments and Service
Claims received as of December 31, 2021
2020 Spreadsheet of Senior Judge Appointments and Service
Claims received as of March 19, 2021
2019 Spreadsheet of Senior Judge Appointments and Service
Claims received as of February 14, 2020
2018 Spreadsheet of Senior Judge Appointments and Service
Claims received as of January 24, 2019
Resources
Policy Regarding Senior Judges Serving as Mediators
Orders Appointing Senior Judges to Serve in Trial Courts
Forms
Statement of Senior Judge Service
Verification Regarding Practice of Law
Contact
Heather R. Falks
Employment Attorney
Office of Judicial Administration
317-234-2620
heather.falks@courts.in.gov