INDIANAPOLIS (November 22, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels announced today the appointment of two county judges. These appointments will fill vacancies created by the resignation of elected judges.

Evan Roberts of Nappanee has been appointed judge of Elkhart Superior Court I. He succeeds Judge Benjamin Pfaff, who resigned on October 1. Roberts serves as a part-time deputy prosecuting attorney in Elkhart County and as judge advocate in the United States Marine Corps Reserve currently holding the rank of lieutenant colonel. Roberts is also managing member of the firm Rosenberg & Roberts, LLC. He received his undergraduate degree from Purdue University, his law degree from John Marshall Law School, and a Master of Laws degree from Georgetown University Law Center. Roberts’ appointment will be effective December 30.

Bruce Markel of Brownstown has been appointed judge of Jackson Superior Court. He succeeds Judge Frank Guthrie, who is resigning effective December 3. Markel has worked in private practice for 31 years and is currently a partner in the firm Markel, Markel, Lambring & MacTavish. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and his law degree from the University of Louisville. Markel’s appointment will be effective January 1.

“Evan Roberts and Bruce Markel are both highly talented jurists who bring to the bench impressive qualifications and an in-depth knowledge of the law. I’m confident they will serve the citizens of Elkhart County and Jackson County with distinction,” said Daniels.