Hon. Tammy S. Somers, Danville, Seventh District, is a magistrate for the Hendricks Superior Courts. She was a deputy attorney general, Consumer Protection Division (2008-13); magistrate judge, Lake Superior Court Room 1 (2005-08); and Lake County deputy prosecutor (2001-05). Tammy is a member of the Hendricks County (president) and Indiana State (Leadership Development Academy Class II graduate and district representative on the Board of Governors) bar associations; and the Indiana and American judges associations. She received her B.S. in biology/chemistry from Valparaiso University (1996) and her J.D. from Valparaiso University School of Law with a concentration in criminal practice (2000). Tammy is a board member and volunteer for A Critter’s Chance (exotic animal rescue); a 7-plus-year volunteer for the Indianapolis Zoo; and a transport volunteer for Rescue Railroad and Cruisin Critters. She was born in Jamestown, N.Y.

Professional enjoyment: I really enjoy working with our Drug Court. I like the one-on-one time with each litigant. I feel these courts are very important. I hope someday I can start a Veterans Court in Hendricks County.

Your inspiration: The trial process inspired me to become a lawyer. In one of my classes in high school I had to read To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I believe after reading this book I decided law might be something I would enjoy. Then, after I started law school, I fell in love with criminal law.

Why bar association involvement: Bar association involvement is extremely important to me. I think it is our responsibility as attorneys to stay involved with our local and state bar associations. My involvement with the bar is a way to give back to local attorneys and the community. As fellow members of my local bar pointed out, our bar association gives us the ability to interact with other attorneys across the legal profession who practice or live in the community.

If not a lawyer: This is easy! I would be an exotic animal veterinarian! I love animals.

Fav hobbies: I love going to rock and country concerts. I also enjoy walking half marathons.

Fav book or author and current reading: My favorite book is All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot.

Fav vacation spot: I love Las Vegas. I also really enjoy going on cruises and being totally disconnected.

Fav food or restaurant: I love any vegan food. My two top restaurants are Three Carrots in Fountain Square and WB Pizza on the northside.

Top of my bucket list: Before I die, I have to visit Australia. I want to take an eco-tour and maybe even volunteer while I’m there.