INDIANAPOLIS (August 11, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels announced today the appointment of Kathleen B. Lang as judge of LaPorte Superior Court #1.  She succeeds Judge Walter Chapala who is resigning effective September 1st. 

Lang has served as Probate Commissioner and Magistrate for the LaPorte Circuit Court since 2003.  Prior to that role, Lang was an experienced prosecutor, having served on two separate occasions in the Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney, where she handled cases before the Illinois Appellate Court, the Illinois Supreme Court and the U.S. Supreme Court.  She has also served as a deputy prosecuting attorney in the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office and has worked in private practice in both Chicago and LaPorte.

An active member of various organizations in the LaPorte and Michigan City communities, Lang currently serves on the boards of Communities in Schools and Dunebrook Prevent Child Abuse-LaPorte County.  Lang also serves on the HOPE (Helping Our People Excel) Advisory Board and the Healthy Families LaPorte County Advisory Council.  She previously served as a director of LaPorte Regional Health Systems and LaPorte Hospital Foundation. 

In addition to her commitment to community, child and health issues, Lang is a parent volunteer in the LaPorte school system and is an accomplished musician, serving as a member of both the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the Michigan City Municipal Band.  Earlier this year, Lang received the Athena Award from the Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce, which recognizes the achievement of women in business and their value as members and leaders of the community.

A frequent speaker on juvenile justice, school discipline, attorney ethics and trial advocacy issues, Lang has significant teaching experience at the elementary, high school, university, and law school levels.  She currently serves as an adjunct professor at Valparaiso University School of Law, where she teaches advanced appellate advocacy and pre-trial skills.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to appoint a jurist of Kathleen Lang’s caliber to LaPorte Superior Court #1.  Her impressive qualifications and accomplishments are matched only by her tireless efforts to make a difference in her community,” said Governor Daniels.  “Just as they have benefited from her contributions to date, LaPorte County citizens will be well-served by such a highly-qualified and devoted public servant on the bench.”

“I’m honored to succeed Judge Chapala,” said Lang.  “I am grateful for this opportunity to serve the people of Michigan City and LaPorte County.  I believe my experience as a Probate Commissioner and Magistrate has helped prepare me to take on this challenge.” 

In addition to the appointment, Governor Daniels announced plans to attend a swearing-in ceremony for Judge Lang in Michigan City on September 1st.

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