Encouraged by the groundwork laid within ISBA’s pre-existing initiatives, this donation will expand and strengthen programs such as the Leadership Development Academy (LDA), ISBA's rural practice initiatives, and the annual Women’s Bench Bar Retreat, as well as additional efforts supporting women, historically underrepresented groups, and legal diversity.

"This gift is truly transformational," stated ISBA president John Maley. "It ensures that the Indiana State Bar Association will have long-term impact on justice and equity through our work in leadership development, rural practice, and support for women in the law."

The following programs are among those being strengthened through this investment:

ISBA's Leadership Development Academy equips attorneys with the skills, network, and experience needed to lead in their communities. Through five sessions held across the state, participants refine their strengths, build meaningful connections, and develop a plan to make a lasting impact in their profession and beyond.

By aligning member insights and Supreme Court priorities, ISBA created an attorney shortage plan. It is a roadmap designed to address one of the most urgent challenges facing Indiana’s legal system: a growing shortage of attorneys, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Focused on education, connections, and advocacy, the plan outlines key initiatives to support rural practice, expand licensure pathways, and explore the role of Allied Legal Professionals. As part of ISBA's attorney shortage plan, Class 1 of the Rural Practice Academy will begin providing the tools, skills, and connections needed for members to build sustainable practices in rural and underserved Indiana communities. 

ISBA's Women in the Law Committee hosts the annual Women’s Bench Bar Retreat, offering a space away from daily demands where women attorneys and judges from across Indiana connect, grow, and recharge together.

###

Media Contact:
Megan Lease
ISBA Communications Manager
mlease@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 923

Indianapolis (April 6, 2026) - As President of, and on behalf of, the Indiana State Bar Association, I write to offer comment on the proposed rulemaking for the Review of State Bar Complaints and Allegations Against Department of Justice Attorneys (“Proposed Rule”). We appreciate the opportunity to share our perspective.

Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is a voluntary bar association representing more than 10,000 members, including lawyers, judges, other legal professionals, and law students. Our first leader was former United States President Benjamin Harrison. Our mission is to improve the administration of justice and promote public understanding of the legal system. Our vision is to serve and advocate on behalf of our members, their clients, and the public interest as the independent voice of the legal profession. We are Indiana’s largest legal organization.

We are proud to include among our members many federal government attorneys from different agencies, including the Department of Justice in our United States Attorney Offices in the Southern District of Indiana and the Northern District of Indiana. We are likewise proud of our Indiana federal judges who choose to be members as well.

Regarding the Proposed Rule, our leadership has studied the proposal and considered its potential impact on the admission and discipline of attorneys in Indiana, as well as on the public trust in our system of justice. We respectfully oppose the Proposed Rule, and for three reasons.

First, attorney regulation and discipline are the exclusive province of each jurisdiction’s highest court. In Indiana, our Indiana Supreme Court is entrusted with the admission and discipline of Indiana attorneys. The Court – along with its Indiana Board of Law Examiners and Indiana Disciplinary Commission – has the experience, expertise, skills, training, and authority to regulate all attorneys in Indiana. Principles of separation of powers and federalism would be violated if the Proposed rule were passed. Our state judicial branch is the authority to regulate the conduct of attorneys in our state.

Second, federal government attorneys, just like state and local government attorneys and private practitioners, appear in the same 92 state courts in Indiana and the same two United States District Courts in Indiana. We are all subject to the same Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct; none of us are above the law. This uniformity promotes public confidence in our legal system and preserves respect for the Rule of Law. Departing from that uniform framework risks undermining both public confidence in and the perceived fairness of the disciplinary system.

Third and finally, the Department of Justice – like all other employers of attorneys in Indiana – has the power to instill additional rules and standards on its personnel above and beyond those required by our Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct as administered by our Indiana Supreme Court. But no employer of attorneys in Indiana can impose lesser standards or impede our Indiana Supreme Court’s supervision and regulation of Indiana attorneys regardless of their employer.

In closing, we join and support the Conference of Chief Justices in their public comment. We respectfully urge that the Proposed Rule not be enacted.

Respectfully submitted,
John R. Maley

###

Media Contact:
Megan Lease
ISBA Communications Manager
mlease@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 923

At its core, the Rule of Law means that no one is above the law and that laws are applied fairly and consistently. It guarantees that our rights and liberties are protected through transparent legal processes. The Rule of Law empowers a parent to challenge a school policy, enables a small business owner to enforce a contract, and protects a citizen who questions government actions. It ensures that power is exercised within bounds, and that all are held accountable under the same legal standards.

Attorneys have long held a unique and critical role in seeking justice for clients under the Rule of Law. To discharge their obligations fully, attorneys must be free to exercise independent judgment, counsel, and advocacy within the bounds of the Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct. Our legal system upholds the tenets that everyone is governed by the same laws, that the laws apply equally to all, and that no one is above the law. These safeguards rely on attorneys who are willing and able to represent all interests in good faith and to challenge infringement and violation of rights without fear of retaliation. Indeed, the Preamble to the Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct applicable to all Indiana attorneys emphasizes: “An independent legal profession is an important force in preserving government under law, for abuse of legal authority is more readily challenged by a profession whose members are not dependent on government for the right to practice."

The Rule of Law likewise depends on an impartial and independent judiciary. The judiciary is enshrined in both our U.S. and Indiana Constitutions and has long served as a safeguard against tyranny and injustice. Judicial independence is at the core of our system of co-equal branches of government.  As the Preamble to the Indiana Code of Judicial Conduct begins, “An independent, fair and impartial judiciary is indispensable to our system of justice. The United States and Indiana legal systems are based upon the fundamental principle that an independent, impartial, and competent judiciary, composed of distinguished persons of integrity, will interpret and apply the law that governs our society. Thus, the judiciary plays a central role in preserving the principles of justice and the rule of law.”

As the largest legal organization in Indiana, the Indiana State Bar Association is committed to upholding the foundational pillars of the Rule of Law—an independent bar and an impartial and independent judiciary—which in tandem safeguard liberty and justice for all.

Through a mix of in-person training, virtual workshops, mentorship, and community engagement, the 12-month initiative is designed to equip attorneys with the business skills, practice-management competency, and connections needed to launch and sustain successful practices in underserved communities.

The RPA is looking for attorneys interested in starting their own firm, transitioning away from big law, or relaunching a practice. The Rural Practice Academy will provide the confidence, mentorship, and resources critical for success.

The RPA is working to help bridge the access to justice gap. Click here to learn more about ISBA’s attorney shortage efforts.

“After graduating in 1991, I chose between a mid-size Indianapolis firm and a two-lawyer practice in New Albany, then home to about 36,000 people. My boss at the time asked: ‘big fish in a small pond, or small fish in a big pond?’ I chose to be a big fish and I haven’t looked back since. ISBA’s Rural Practice Academy will support others who want to be a big fish, and I am excited for the impact they will have on our Hoosier community.” - Derrick Wilson, ISBA president-elect and managing partner at Mattox & Wilson, L.L.P

For more information about the Rural Practice Academy, click here or email Christine Cordial, ISBA’s Director of Justice Initiatives, at ccordial@inabr.org.

It has come to light that the shooting of Tippecanoe County Judge Steven Meyer and his wife Kim relates to a pending trial. 

We are thankful that Judge Meyer and his wife are recovering. The Indiana State Bar Association stands in support of all judges and thanks them for the paramount role they play in upholding the rule of law.

As shared in past president Mike Jasaitis’ statement on Law Day last year, the following words still ring true now and remain pertinent always.

“If the Rule of Law suffers, we all suffer. If the Rule of Law is threatened, we are all threatened.”

Violence directed at the judiciary is a bitter reminder that we must all continue to advocate for the safety and well-being of our legal community.

In response to the incident, lawmakers have proposed amendments to Senate Bill 0291 that would protect personal information of Indiana’s judicial officers. As president of the ISBA, I support this important legislation and encourage ISBA members to contact their local lawmakers in support.

John Maley
ISBA President

"I am deeply saddened to hear the news about Judge Steven Meyer and his wife Kimberly. On behalf of the Indiana State Bar Association and myself, I extend our heartfelt support and best wishes for their recovery. Judge Meyer is widely known and well respected throughout Indiana’s legal community for the integrity, professionalism, and kindness he brings both to the bench and beyond it. Our courts are places where we advocate passionately and, at times, stand firmly on opposite sides of an issue. But moments like this remind us that beyond the roles we play and the arguments we make, we are part of a close and caring legal community. It is in that spirit that we come together to support our colleagues when they need us most."

John Maley
ISBA President

###

Media Contact:
Megan Lease
ISBA Communications Manager
mlease@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 923

• Zachary Bailey, Marc Lopez Law Firm, Noblesville
• Hannah Brady, Hume Smith Geddes Green & Simmons, LLP, Indianapolis
• Catherine Braun, Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP, Westfield
• Tom Crishon, The Arc of Indiana, Fishers
• Kristin Froehle, Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Indianapolis
• Rebecca Gray, Harwell Gray Legal Counsel, Indianapolis
• Charis Grubbs, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, Beech Grove
• Caylee Hamilton, Frost Brown Todd LLP, Indianapolis
• Cassie Heeke, Church Church Hittle + Antrim, Indianapolis
• Blaize Hiatt, Frost Brown Todd LLP, Indianapolis
• Kendra Key, Church Church Hittle + Antrim, South Bend
• Glorify Mandima, Frost Brown Todd LLP, Indianapolis
• Barry McGinley, Frost Brown Todd LLP, Carmel
• Robert Miller, Charitable Allies, Inc., Plainfield
• Trenton Morton, Mercy for Animals, Fishers
• Shana Paula, Eimerman Law, Brownsburg
• April Satow, Kruger & Schwartz, Clarksville
• J. Cecelia Satterthwaite, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, Indianapolis
• Autumn Seib, Wagner Reese LLP, Carmel
• Benjamin Shoptaw, Marc Lopez Law Firm, Westfield
• George Sorrells, Indiana Supreme Court, Indianapolis
• Jamie Sutton, Sutton Law Office, Bloomfield
• Cameron Trachtman, Frost Brown Todd LLP, Indianapolis
• Adam Willfond, Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, Greenfield

LDA prepares Indiana’s next generation of legal leaders, creating a cohort of informed, committed, and involved professionals who serve as role models in matters of ethics, community involvement, and professionalism.

The 24 class members will participate in five multi-day sessions held across the state. These sessions, facilitated by prominent individuals from the legal community, will help individuals identify their unique skillsets, develop a plan for how they can leave their personal impact on the world, and build a network to support them along the way. This year, the class will travel to Fort Benjamin Harrison, the Indiana Statehouse, Speedway, Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, and Jasper, Indiana. Learn more about LDA »

About the Indiana State Bar Association
Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is the largest legal organization in the state. The ISBA empowers members to thrive professionally and personally through advocacy, education, and connections. The ISBA’s office is located in downtown Indianapolis. For more information, visit www.inbar.org.

John is a partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Indianapolis, where he represents public and private companies and universities in employment matters, complex litigation, trials, and appeals. 

A Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, John has been consistently recognized among Indiana’s top attorneys by Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, and Super Lawyers. He is the author of the Appellate Handbook for Indiana Lawyers and publishes and lectures widely on employment law, federal practice, and trial advocacy. 

John has a long record of service to the profession and local and state bar associations.  He  chairs the Southern District of Indiana Local Rules Committee, serves on the Northern District of Indiana’s Local Rules Committee, and serves on the Seventh Circuit Pattern Jury Instructions Committee.  John is a lifetime member of the Marion County Bar Association, past-president of the Indianapolis Bar Association, and longtime member of the Wayne County Bar Association.

His ISBA involvement began in the 1990s as a member of the House of Delegates, continued with various committees and the Mentor Match program, and includes leadership roles including past chair of the ISBA Appellate Practice Section and treasurer of the Board of Governors.   Looking ahead as president, John hopes to increase member retention and recruitment, strengthen member engagement, serve and advocate for the Indiana legal profession, and ensure ISBA remains a relevant and valuable resource for Indiana lawyers.

A summa cum laude graduate of Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, John also holds an M.B.A. from Indiana University and a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame. He and his wife, Vivian, CEO of the Joseph Maley Foundation, are the proud parents of five sons. He is founder and president of Whitewater Valley Pro Bono, a legal aid organization in Richmond. Outside of work, John enjoys competitive distance running and coaches women’s cross country and track at Brebeuf.

John succeeds Michael Jasaitis of Crown Point as ISBA president. Derrick Wilson of New Albany, Indiana was inducted as ISBA president-elect, and Justice Steven David (Ret.) of Fishers, Indiana was elected vice president during today’s meeting.

ISBA’s new leadership team, as elected by members is:

OFFICERS
President: John Maley, Indianapolis
President Elect: Derrick Wilson, New Albany
Vice President: Justice Steven David (Ret.), Fishers
Secretary: Hon. Tim Baker, Indianapolis
Treasurer: Katrina Ornelas, Carmel
Counsel to the President: Dawn Rosemond, Fort Wayne

BOARD OF GOVERNORS
District 1: Geoffrey Giorgi, Crown Point
District 2: Rachel Arndt, Rochester
District 3: Doug Sakaguchi, South Bend
District 4: Kevin Fitzharris, Fort Wayne
District 5: Robert Reiling, Jr., West Lafayette
District 6: Lynsey David, Fishers
District 7: Scott Bieniek, Greencastle
District 8: Derrick McDowell, Evansville
District 9: Abbey Fargen Riley, Jeffersonville
District 10: Mark Guenin, Wabash
District 11:

• Traci Cosby, Indianapolis
• Tarah Baldwin, Indianapolis
• April Keaton, Indianapolis
  

At-Large:

• Melissa Keyes, Indianapolis
  Paraskevi Xidias, Indianapolis

Past President: Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point
House of Delegates Chair: Steve Hoar, Evansville
House of Delegates Chair Elect: Josh Tatum, Indianapolis
Young Lawyers Section Chair: Elizabeth Klesmith, South Bend
Young Lawyers Section Observer: Katie Piscione, Indianapolis

###

Media Contact
Megan (Purser) Lease
ISBA Communications Manager
mpurser@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 923

Michael Jasaitis
ISBA President

According to data from the Indiana Supreme Court, over half of Indiana counties have fewer than one attorney per 1,000 residents. This meets the American Bar Association’s definition of a “legal desert,” meaning many Hoosiers struggle to access basic legal help.

In early 2024, ISBA launched three task forces made up of attorneys, judges, legal educators, and community leaders to discuss potential solutions to this challenge. Their work was shaped by additional member feedback during breakout sessions at the 2024 ISBA Annual Summit, as well as input from the Indiana Supreme Court. In addition to practitioner-focused efforts led by the ISBA, the plan is also designed to inform the work of the Court’s Commission on Indiana’s Legal Future. 

The Attorney Shortage Plan is built around three core pillars:

1. Rural Practice and Alternative Business Models
   ISBA will launch an entrepreneurial incubator program, develop on-demand law practice training, and build a rural practice resource hub on its website. ISBA will also explore partnerships and policy advocacy to incentivize rural legal work and support practice transitions in underserved areas.
2. Paths to Licensure and Practice Readiness
   To better prepare new lawyers, ISBA will expand connections between law students and the private bar through internships, externships, and pro bono opportunities. ISBA will continue supporting bar exam reforms and remain an active voice in discussions about alternative licensure pathways, including apprenticeships or experiential portfolios.
3. Allied Legal Professionals (ALPs)
   Should the Court move forward with implementing an ALP model in Indiana, ISBA stands ready to protect the integrity of the profession and ensure attorneys’ perspectives are represented in the process. The Association aims to play a key role in educating the legal community about ALPs and may serve as a training provider for future legal support professionals.

"This comprehensive approach represents our commitment to ensuring that Indiana citizens have access to quality legal representation, regardless of where they live." said ISBA President Michael Jasaitis. "By tackling attorney shortages through multiple pathways, we're taking proactive steps to strengthen the future of Indiana's legal landscape."

To view the full Attorney Shortage Plan and learn more about ISBA’s work related to access to justice, visit: inbar.org/attorneyshortageplan.

###

Media Contact:
Megan Purser
Communications Manager
mpurser@inbar.org

• Lauren Berger, Biesecker Dutkaynch & Macer LLC, Jasper
• Lacey Berkshire, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Indianapolis
• Nick Brady, Plews Shadley Racher & Braun, Indianapolis
• Samantha Chapman, The Humane Society of the United States, Fishers
• Todd Coffeen, Quarles & Brady, LLP, Noblesville
• Chelsea Crawford, Chelsea R. Crawford Attorney at Law, Kirklin
• Brandon Curl, Kahn, Dees, Donovan & Kahn, Evansville
• Shelley Gupta, Health and Hospital Corporation, Indianapolis
• Ashley Hart, Indiana Judges & Lawyers Assistance Program, Franklin
• Jonathan Harwell, Harwell Gray Legal Counsel, LLC, Indianapolis
• Mark Holwager, Holwager & Holwager Attorneys at Law, P.C., Beech Grove
• Matthew Kroes, Marc Lopez Law, Indianapolis
• Ashley Moise, Indiana Office of Court Services, Indianapolis
• Trevor Oakerson, Wayne County Public Defender’s Office, Winchester
• Amy Osborne, Office of the Indiana Attorney General, Greenfield
• Mag. Matthew Raper, St. Joseph Superior Court, South Bend
• Tim Stucky, Kightlinger & Gray, LLP, Sellersburg
• Cortney Sweat, May Oberfell Lorber, LLP, Mishawaka
• Elizabeth Terrell, Terrell Group LLC, Martinsville
• Daniel Timm, CCSK Law/LaPorte County Government, Valparaiso
• Megan Torres, Beckman Lawson, LLP, Fort Wayne
• Elizabeth Walker, Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, Indianapolis
• Christine Walsh, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, Indianapolis
• Levy Wash, Fisher Maas Howard Lloyd & Wheeler P.C., Fishers
  

About the Indiana State Bar Association

Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is the single largest legal organization in the state. The ISBA empowers members to thrive professionally and personally through advocacy, education, and connections. The ISBA’s office is located in downtown Indianapolis. For more information about the Indiana State Bar Association, visit www.inbar.org.

Jasaitis is a partner at Austgen Kuiper & Jasaitis P.C., where he brings over two decades of legal advocacy to his general civil practice, focusing on litigation, business law, school law, and real estate. Recognized as a Super Lawyer and having earned the AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, Jasaitis is widely respected for his legal ability and ethical standards.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of Jasaitis' career has been his work advocating for high school students across Indiana who have been declared ineligible to participate in athletics. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Jasaitis believes that participation in athletics is an “integral part of the high school educational experience.”  He has gained a strong reputation for his dedication to ensuring students have access to these extracurricular opportunities, which often provide a critical pathway to post-secondary education.

A graduate of Valparaiso University (1997), Jasaitis earned his law degree magna cum laude from Valparaiso University Law School in 2000, where he was a member of the Law Review and served as president of the Student Bar Association. He has been admitted to practice law in both Indiana and Illinois since 2000.

Jasaitis has demonstrated a deep commitment to the ISBA, serving in various leadership capacities for nearly two decades. He chaired the ISBA Young Lawyers Section (YLS) in 2010, where he led the section to national recognition, earning two American Bar Association awards for public service and excellence in programming. During his term, the YLS launched initiatives like "Young Lawyers Serving Hoosier Seniors," and other impactful community service projects that left a lasting impression on both the legal community and the public.

Notably, Jasaitis is the first ISBA president to graduate from the ISBA’s Leadership Development Academy, a leadership program designed to nurture future leaders in the legal profession. Jasaitis was part of the inaugural class (Class 1), further exemplifying his dedication to ISBA and its future.

Jasaitis has also served multiple terms on the ISBA Board of Governors, including two years as the Lake County District Representative, and chaired the ISBA House of Delegates in 2020. His service and dedication to the ISBA have been recognized with the association’s Presidential Citation and Cinch Strap Award, honors given to members who demonstrate outstanding service and leadership within the association.

In addition to his ISBA roles, Jasaitis is a past president of the Lake County Bar Association (LCBA) and a recipient of the LCBA President’s Award in 2015. He has also served on the LCBA Board of Managers for over 15 years.

Beyond his legal career, Jasaitis is deeply committed to his family and community. A father of three children, ranging in age from 6 to 14, Jasaitis enjoys coaching their sports teams and actively supporting their educational and extracurricular activities. He also served as president of Lake Area United Way in 2021, where he played a pivotal role in facilitating the successful merger with United Way of Porter County in 2022.

Jasaitis succeeds Hon. Thomas J. Felts of Fort Wayne, Indiana, as ISBA president. John Maley of Indianapolis was inducted as ISBA president-elect, and Derrick Wilson of New Albany, Indiana, was elected vice president during today’s meeting.

ISBA’s new leadership team, as elected by members is:

OFFICERS
President: Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point 
President Elect: John Maley, Indianapolis
Vice President: Derrick Wilson, New Albany
Secretary: Angela Jones, Saint John
Treasurer: Jimmie McMillian, Indianapolis
Counsel to the President: Justice Steven David (Ret.), Columbus

BOARD OF GOVERNORS 
1st District: Steve Sersic, Munster
2nd District: Rachel Arndt, Rochester
3rd District: Doug Sakaguchi, South Bend
4th District: Hon. Frances Gull, Fort Wayne 
5th District: Patrick Jones, Lafayette 
6th District: Lynsey David, Fishers
7th District: Scott Bieniek, Greencastle
8th District: Derrick McDowell, Evansville
9th District: Abbey Fargen Riley, Jeffersonville
10th District: Jim Williams, Muncie
11th District:

• Jane Dall Wilson, Indianapolis
• Joe Rompala, Indianapolis 
• Traci Cosby, Indianapolis

At Large: 

• Allyse Wirkkala, Indianapolis
• Melissa Keyes, Indianapolis

Past President: Hon. Tom J. Felts, Fort Wayne
House of Delegates Chair: Hon. Elizabeth Bellin, Elkhart
House of Delegates Chair Elect: Steve Hoar, Evansville
Young Lawyers Section Chair: Matt Land, Indianapolis 
Young Lawyers Section Observer: Libby Klesmith, South Bend

###

Media Contact
Megan Purser
ISBA Communications Manager
mpurser@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 923

The Judicial Retention Poll asks ISBA members if, in their opinion, each Indiana Supreme Court justice or Indiana Court of Appeals judge up for retention in the General Election should be retained (yes/no). Lawyers are uniquely qualified to evaluate members of the judiciary, as it’s important to evaluate a judicial officer on their track record rather than a single ruling. Through the Judicial Retention Poll, ISBA members help Indiana voters make an informed decision about their vote to retain a judge.

ISBA members were electronically surveyed between Sept. 2 and Sept. 30. 

The yes/no retention results of the judges are as follows:

• Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush: Yes-88% No-12%
• Indiana Supreme Court Justice Mark S. Massa: Yes-84% No-16%
• Indiana Supreme Court Justice Derek R. Molter: Yes-84% No-16%
  
• Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Rudolph R. Pyle: Yes-85% No-15%
  
• Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Peter R. Foley: Yes-87% No-13%
  

Supreme Court and Court of Appeals judges face an approval vote in the first general election that occurs at least two years after their appointment, and every 10 years thereafter.  Indiana voters will have an opportunity to cast their ballot concerning the judges’ retention next month.

For further insight on the importance of judicial retention, read the full ISBA op-ed here: inbar.org/page/judicialretentionop-ed.

Additional information about Indiana's Judicial Retention System here: in.gov/courts/about/retention/.

###

Media Contact: Megan Purser, mpurser@inbar.org

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 10, 2024) – Hoosiers needing answers to legal questions are invited to a free legal consultation during the Indiana State Bar Association’s annual “Talk to a Lawyer Today” on Jan. 15, 2024. Consultations are provided in-person throughout the state, virtually, or via local county hotlines. Attorneys will also be answering questions submitted through Indiana Free Legal Answers.

Examples of topics that may be covered include:

• Bankruptcy
  
• Child support
  
• Complaints against a city
  
• Contract disputes
  
• Divorce
  
• Employment issues
  
• Healthcare
  
• Immigration
  
• Landlord-tenant issues
  
• Long-term care facilities
  
• Mental health treatment
  
• School law
  
• Small claims
  
• Social security
  
• Wills and estates
  

Attorneys are not able to advise on criminal cases.

Consultations typically are 15-20 minutes. Many legal issues are complicated, but we’ll do our best to point Hoosiers in the right direction. We’ll give suggestions about next steps, which forms to complete, the right government agency to contact, resources, etc.

Hoosiers will leave with a general plan for solving their issue. They likely won’t leave with their issue completely solved. Attorneys are not able to file forms on Hoosiers' behalf or maintain an ongoing relationship.

To get the most out of their free legal consultation, we recommend Hoosiers be prepared with their specific questions already written down. Volunteer attorneys work hard to answer every person’s questions, so the quicker they are able to ask their question, the more time the attorney will have to provide an answer.

Please help share this information with the general public who may benefit from free legal counsel. Walk-in locations and call-in phone numbers will be published at www.inbar.org/consultation.

About the Indiana State Bar Association:
Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is the largest legal organization in the state. The ISBA serves and advocates on behalf of its members, their clients and the public interest as the independent voice of the legal profession. The ISBA’s office is located in downtown Indianapolis. For more information about the Indiana State Bar Association, visit www.inbar.org.

• Rani Amani, Indiana Supreme Court, Indianapolis
• Kathleen Boaz, Church Church Hittle + Antrim, Carmel
• Caroline Brinster, Dentons Bingham Greenebaum LLP, Jasper
• Anthony Carreri, Kroger Gardis & Regas, LLP, Carmel
• Annie Chey-Sluss, Cummins Inc., Indianapolis
• Ritu Chokshi, Chugh LLP, Carmel
• Kaylin Cook, Paganelli Law Group, Carmel
• Janelle Cooper, May Oberfell Lorber, Mishawaka
• Cynthia Forbes, Indiana State Police, Indianapolis
• Elaine Griffin, Bennett Boehning & Clary, Lafayette
• Kelsey Hancewicz, Wright, Shagley & Lowery PC, Terre Haute
• Maxwell Happe, Pro Bono Indiana, Inc., Evansville
• Melissa Keyes, Indiana Disability Rights, Carmel
• Angelus Kocoshis, Blackford County, Muncie
• Robert Langer, Langer & Langer, Valparaiso
• Michael Licari, Bonahoom & Bobilya, LLC, Fort Wayne
• Megan Little, Indiana Department of Correction, Fishers
• Britney McMahan, Office of the Indiana Attorney General, Zionsville
• Greg Pachmayr, Indiana Supreme Court, Brownsburg
• Katherine Piscione, Waldron Tate Bowen Land LLC, Indianapolis
• Sundeep Singh, RileyCate LLC, Fishers
• Andrew Thomas, Indiana Legal Services Inc., Fort Wayne
• Audrey Van Gilder, Fletcher Van Gilder, LLP, Fort Wayne
• Abbee Vetter, Sprunger & Sprunger, Angola
• Adam Zacher, Gutwein Law, Indianapolis

About the Indiana State Bar Association

Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is the single largest legal organization in the state. The ISBA empowers members to thrive professionally and personally through advocacy, education, and connections. The ISBA’s office is located in downtown Indianapolis. For more information about the Indiana State Bar Association, visit www.inbar.org.

To the Indiana Supreme Court:

The Indiana State Bar Association respectfully offers the following feedback on the proposed amendments to the Admission and Discipline Rules providing Indiana with a detailed waiver provision that sets out a path for otherwise qualified law school graduates to sit for the Indiana bar exam.

The Indiana State Bar Association (ISBA) supports the proposed amendments to Rule 13 (Educational Requirements for Admission to Examination).

ISBA believes these changes have the potential to increase the availability of proficient lawyers in Indiana while still ensuring a qualified entity vets the candidates petitioning to sit for the exam.

ISBA submitted comments in April opposing proposed amendments to Rules 6 (Admission on Foreign License), 13 (Educational Requirements for Admission to Examination), and 17.1 (Admission by Transferred Uniform Bar Examination Score) of the Admission and Discipline Rules. Those proposed changes were different than the current proposal.

The comments ISBA submitted to the court in April included: “Without confirming that all such entities’ standards align with what we in Indiana consider crucial to providing a high quality legal education and that all such entities have a robust procedure for monitoring accreditation compliance, we do not support allowing graduates of law schools accredited by those other entities to sit for the Indiana bar.”

Although the current proposal doesn’t include a specific provision for Indiana accreditation, the ISBA believes it succeeds in providing a sufficient vetting process. Indiana's Board of Law Examiners has long been the gatekeeper for minimum competency of Indiana attorneys. Relying on this board to review requests from otherwise qualified law school graduates would be an effective solution to ensuring that candidates are adept in legal practice, helping to maintain a more proficient legal community.

Thank you for considering these comments,

Hon. Thomas J. Felts
Indiana State Bar Association President
Fort Wayne

Indianapolis (Nov. 22, 2023) – The Indiana State Bar Association is pleased to announce a partnership with Modern Information Solutions (MIS), an IT services firm focused on the legal industry. The partnership provides ISBA members with up to a 20 percent per-person discount on Legal Help Desk monthly plans for the firms of all ISBA members.

“We’re in an era where technology is constantly reshaping the landscape of our profession,” said Joe Skeel, ISBA Executive Director. “ISBA partnered with MIS because of their deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities technology provides law firms. MIS takes a proactive approach to ensuring their clients have intuitive technology that doesn’t just work for their practice—it enhances it. In the past six months of using MIS as ISBA’s IT services provider, our staff has been thrilled with the immediacy that MIS responds to technology needs as well as their expert ability to help staff streamline their everyday processes.”

“Attorneys need to be able to practice law in the most efficient way possible and rely on technology working at all hours,” said Tino Marquez, Partner at MIS. “We take a proactive approach to managing a firm’s infrastructure, protecting client data and attorney’s access to that data, and fixing inevitable technology glitches with the utmost urgency. We’re thrilled to partner with the ISBA and help provide Indiana attorneys with technology that enhances their practice.”

MIS provides a true legal helpdesk experience for small to medium size law firms. As a legal focused managed services provider, MIS offers cybersecurity, remote monitoring, vCIO services, and software training. Since 2009, MIS has provided law firms with a helpdesk that is designed after what attorneys and staff would experience in much larger law firms without in house IT personnel.  

Click here to learn more about MIS and see their pricing structure for ISBA members.

###

Judge Felts is a certified Senior Judge affiliated with the Indiana Office of Court Services. He is a 1976 graduate of the University of Notre Dame and received his law degree from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 1979. He worked for two law firms in Fort Wayne following graduation, becoming a partner with the Burt, Blee, Hawk & Sutton (now Burt, Blee, Dixon, Sutton & Bloom LLP) law firm in 1987.

Judge Felts was named magistrate of the Allen Circuit Court in October 1989 and served in that capacity until he was elected as judge of the Allen Circuit Court in 2002. He served three terms as judge, choosing not to seek re-election in 2020, and began his service as a certified senior judge on January 1, 2021.

Judge Felts has a long record of leadership and service both in the legal community as well as local and state organizations. He created and supervised three problem-solving courts and has been a frequent presenter for legal and judicial education. Prior to being elected as ISBA president, Judge Felts served on the organization’s Board of Governors for three terms. He has been a longtime board member of the Indiana Judges Association and served as its president from 2007 through 2009. He served three terms on the board of the Indiana Bar Foundation as well as three terms on the Board of the Indiana Judicial Conference. On the local level, Judge Felts has served on the boards of the Foellinger Foundation and St. Joseph Community Health Foundation in Fort Wayne as well as on the boards of the Fort Wayne Metro YMCA, Allen County Community Corrections, Allen County Public Records Commission, and Allen County Courthouse Preservation Trust.

Judge Felts’ honors include receiving the ISBA Outstanding Judge Award, being named the Notre Dame Club of Fort Wayne Person of the Year, and receiving the Indiana Lawyer Leadership in Law Distinguished Barrister Award. In December 2020, Judge Felts was honored by Governor Eric Holcomb with a Sagamore of the Wabash Award in recognition of his service to the state of Indiana.

Judge Felts has been married to Kathryn (Kay) Felts for 41 years and has three sons and three grandchildren.

Judge Felts succeeds Amy Noe Dudas of Dudas Law in Richmond, Ind. Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point, Ind. assumes the role as ISBA president-elect, and John Maley, Indianapolis was elected vice president during today’s Assembly Meeting.

ISBA’s new leadership team, as inducted by members is:

OFFICERS
President: Hon. Tom Felts, Fort Wayne 
President Elect: Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point 
Vice President: John Maley, Indianapolis 
Secretary: April Keaton, Indianapolis 
Treasurer: Hon. Stephanie Steele, Granger 
Counsel to the President: Jackie Pillar, Crown Point

BOARD OF GOVERNORS 
1st District: Steve Sersic, Munster 
2nd District: Barbra Stooksbury, Chesterton 
3rd District: Joe Fullenkamp, South Bend 
4th District: Hon. Frances Gull, Fort Wayne 
5th District: Patrick Jones, Lafayette 
6th District: Julia Kozicki, Noblesville 
7th District: Anne McFadden, Bloomington 
8th District: Raymond Dudlo, Evansville 
9th District: Derrick Wilson, New Albany 
10th District: Jim Williams, Muncie
11th District:

• Jane Dall Wilson, Indianapolis
  
• Joe Rompala, Indianapolis 
  
• Jimmie McMillan, Indianapolis 
  

At Large District: 

• Allyse Wirkkala, Indianapolis 
  
• Hon. Mike Witte, Nineveh 
  

Past President: Amy Noe Dudas, Richmond 
House of Delegates Chair: Séamus Boyce, Westfield 
House of Delegates Chair Elect: Hon. Elizabeth Bellin, Elkhart 
Young Lawyers Section Chair: Adrienne Rines Hammond, Marion 
Young Lawyers Section Observer: Matt Land, Indianapolis

###

(Indianapolis, Wednesday, May 24, 2023) The Indiana State Bar Association (ISBA) has launched the Indiana Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center, a hub designed to help train and connect Hoosier attorneys to pro bono opportunities. It is available at www.inbar.org/probonoacademy.

“In addition to being incredibly important for our community, we’re hearing more and more from ISBA members that pro bono is important for attorneys’ mental health and professional longevity,” said Amy Noe Dudas, ISBA President. “It allows attorneys to leverage their unique skillsets and work one-on-one with their community members, often providing more visible, immediate results than they see in their private practices. By making pro bono more accessible, the Indiana Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center is a new important tool for Indiana attorneys, and ultimately our entire community.”
 
The Indiana Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center supports volunteers in two ways:

1. Offers an entry point to pro bono
Attorneys often report that not knowing where to begin is a barrier to doing pro bono. Indiana has no shortage of pro bono providers and opportunities, which can make finding an entry point difficult for attorneys. The Indiana Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center helps by aggregating links to Indiana's major pro bono organizations’ websites.

2. Trains up attorneys on most relevant pro bono topics
Another barrier to pro bono is that many attorneys report not feeling “qualified” to provide legal guidance on topics outside their primary practice area. To help, the Indiana Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center offers a curated selection of on-demand CLE about the most common pro bono topics.

The ISBA would like to thank its partners from across the pro bono community for their assistance in developing the Pro Bono Academy and Resource Center.

###

Media Contact
Kelsey Singh
ISBA Communication Director
Ksingh@inbar.org
317.639.5465, ext. 932 

To the Indiana Supreme Court:

The Indiana State Bar Association respectfully offers the following feedback on the proposed amendments to the Admission and Discipline Rules allowing graduates of non-ABA accredited law schools to sit for the Indiana bar exam.

The Indiana State Bar Association (ISBA) opposes the proposed amendments to Rules 6 (Admission on Foreign License), 13 (Educational Requirements for Admission to Examination), and 17.1 (Admission by Transferred Uniform Bar Examination Score) of the Admission and Discipline Rules.

ISBA is not inherently opposed to online legal education, nor did this position come as a direct evaluation of Purdue Global’s Concord Law School – although public debate has largely focused on those issues.

ISBA’s opposition is rooted in its belief that a quality legal education is vital to the high-level practice of law, which better serves Indiana’s citizens. The best way to ensure quality and consistent legal education is through a reliable accreditation process. Indiana has no such independent process, nor does it have a body that evaluates the standards of non-ABA accreditation entities. Without confirming that all such entities’ standards align with what we in Indiana consider crucial to providing a high quality legal education and that all such entities have a robust procedure for monitoring accreditation compliance, we do not support allowing graduates of law schools accredited by those other entities to sit for the Indiana bar. 

ISBA understands that Indiana has an attorney shortage, especially in rural communities. It also understands that online legal education may be an affordable avenue for underrepresented populations. Online education is an increasing reality, and a carefully designed online law program may very well be of sufficient quality to meet other important accreditation standards. The ABA appears to be moving in that direction with its approval of certain hybrid J.D. programs as well as some recently approved fully online pilot programs associated with existing accredited law schools. 

In considering its position, ISBA solicited feedback on the proposed rule changes from its members and received numerous responses. The majority of members who shared feedback were overwhelmingly opposed to the proposed rule amendments for a variety of reasons. After deep research into the issue, a review of member feedback, and substantial discussion, the ISBA Board of Governors voted unanimously on April 14 to oppose the proposed amendments. 

In conclusion, unless and until Indiana puts resources in place to become an independent accreditor of law schools or creates a body to evaluate the accreditation standards of other states, the ISBA supports maintaining our reliance on the ABA’s accreditation standards and compliance monitoring. Therefore, we oppose the rule changes as proposed.

Thank you for considering these comments,

Amy Noe Dudas
Indiana State Bar Association President
Dudas Law, Richmond

The LDA program develops lawyers to be informed, committed, and involved so that they may be empowered as leaders throughout the Indiana community and in local and state bar associations, and seen as role models in matters of ethics and professionalism.

The 25 class members will participate in five multi-day sessions across the state, facilitated by experienced leadership professionals and prominent speakers, to inform participants about leadership principles and to help them chart their personal leadership path.

The members of the Leadership Development Academy Class of 2023 are:

• Waleed Abdalla, Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, Fishers
• Carita Austin, Cummins, Inc., Avon
• Scott Bieniek, Bieniek Law, P.C., Greencastle
• Nick Bognanno, Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP, Fishers
• Nell Collins, The Volunteer Lawyer Network, South Bend
• Adam Doerr, Kroger Gardis & Regas, LLP, Indianapolis
• Andrea Ewan, Ewan Law Office, Aurora
• David Felts, Stucky, Lauer & Young, LLP, Fort Wayne
• Katlyn Foust Hunneshagen, May Oberfell Lorber, North Liberty
• Jaclyn Flint, Riley Bennett Egloff, LLP, Indianapolis
• Tanner Guthrie, Patterson Law LLC, Fort Wayne
• Lisa Hanna, Ernsberger & Helmer, Angola
• Eldin Hasic, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Fort Wayne
• Stephanie Kress, Rolfes, Garvey, Walker & Robbins, Greensburg
• Lindsay Llewellyn, U.S. District Court, Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis
• Colleen Morrison, Indiana Supreme Court, Indianapolis
• Ashley Roncevic, Hollingsworth Roberts Mean, LLC, Carmel
• Allison Scarlott, Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Indianapolis
• Arqeil Shaw, Ice Miller LLP, Indianapolis
• Ben Spandau, Waldron Tate Bowen Spandau, Martinsville
• Aaron Spolarich, Bennett Boehning & Clary LLP, Crawfordsville
• Spencer Tanner, Gutwein Law, Evansville
• Emily VanTyle, Wilson Kehoe Winingham LLC, Indianapolis
• Charles Westerhaus, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Zionsville
• Patty Xidias, Griffith Xidias Law Group LLC, Indianapolis
  

About the Indiana State Bar Association

Founded in 1896, the Indiana State Bar Association is the single largest legal organization in the state. The ISBA empowers members to thrive professionally and personally, through advocacy, education, and connections. The ISBA’s office is located in downtown Indianapolis. For more information about the Indiana State Bar Association, visit www.inbar.org.

Dudas received her law degree from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law in Indianapolis, and a bachelor of arts degree in English and French literature from Earlham College. She has been practicing law in Richmond ever since with a commitment to community advocacy.

Dudas has been actively involved with the Indiana State Bar Association since 2005. Her service includes as Board of Governors district representative; Counsel to the president; Treasurer; Annual Meeting Chair; Chair of the Legal Ethics Committee; Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee; Chair of the Leadership Development Academy; and Chair of the House of Delegates. She has also served on the Member and Member Benefits Committee and the Women in the Law Committee. She has volunteered with the ISBA’s Mentor Match program, which provides curriculum-based mentoring to young attorneys.

In addition, Dudas was a member of the Indiana Bar Foundation’s Board from 2012 to 2020, having served as Secretary and its President. She also served on the Indiana Pro Bono Commission and the District 9 Pro Bono Commission, having served as President.

In 2018, Dudas was appointed by Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Rush to serve on the 10-member Board of Law Examiners, which is responsible for the admission of attorneys to practice law in Indiana, reviewing applications and grading portions of the Indiana Bar Exam.

Dudas has served on many boards over the years; as Secretary and President of the Richmond Symphony Orchestra; as President of the Wayne County Foundation, as President of the Richmond Gymnastics Training Center, as Secretary and Vice Chair of the Earlham College Alumni Council, as Vice President for Birth-to-Five, and as a board member to Richmond-Wayne County Chamber of Commerce and the Whitewater Valley United Way.  

Dudas succeeds Clayton C. Miller of Indianapolis. Hon. Tom Felts, Fort Wayne, Ind. assumes the role as ISBA president-elect, and Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point, Ind. was elected vice president during today’s member assembly.

ISBA’s new leadership team, as inducted by members during the ISBA Annual Meeting is:

OFFICERS
President: Amy Noe Dudas, Richmond
President Elect: Hon. Tom Felts, Fort Wayne
Vice President: Michael Jasaitis, Crown Point
Secretary: Scott Wylie, Evansville
Treasurer: Tonya Bond, Indianapolis
Counsel to the President: Jim Williams, Muncie

BOARD OF GOVERNORS
1st District: Candace Williams, Gary
2nd District: Barbra Stooksbury, Chesterton
3rd District: Joe Fullenkamp, South Bend
4th District: Lindsay Lepley, Fort Wayne
5th District: Cliff Robinson, Rensselaer
6th District: Julia Kozicki, Carmel
7th District: Anne McFadden, Bloomington
8th District: Raymond Dudlo, Evansville
9th District: Derrick Wilson, New Albany
10th District: Melissa Cunnyngham, Frankfort

11th District:

• Colin Flora, Indianapolis
• Ann Sutton, Indianapolis
• Jimmie McMillian, Indianapolis
  

At Large District:

• Renee Ortega, Hammond
• Mike Witte, Nineveh
  

Past President: Clayton C. Miller, Indianapolis
House of Delegates Chair: Angka Hinshaw, Indianapolis
House of Delegates Chair Elect: Séamus Boyce, Indianapolis
Young Lawyers Section Chair: Brandon Tate, Indianapolis
Young Lawyers Section Observer: Adrienne Rines-Hammond, Marion

The Judicial Retention Poll asks ISBA members if, in their opinion, each Court of Appeals judge up for retention in the General Election should be retained (yes/no). Lawyers are uniquely qualified to evaluate members of the judiciary. Through the Judicial Retention Poll, ISBA members help Indiana voters make an informed decision about their vote to retain a judge.

ISBA members were electronically surveyed between Sept. 5 and Sept. 30. 

The yes/no retention results of the judges are as follows:

• Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Paul D. Mathias: Yes-87% No-12%
  
• Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Nancy H. Vaidik: Yes-85% No-14%
  
• Indiana Court of Appeals Judge Leanna K. Weissmann: Yes-85% No-14%
  

Supreme Court and Court of Appeals judges face an approval vote in the first general election that occurs at least two years after their appointment, and every 10 years thereafter. There are no Supreme Court judges up for retention in this year’s election. Indiana voters will have an opportunity to cast their ballot concerning the judges’ retention next month.

Additional information about Indiana's Judicial Retention System here: www.in.gov/courts/about/retention.

###

Media Contact: Kelsey Singh, ksingh@inbar.org

Presenters will be asked to assist with:

• Helping class members build rapport with each other in a natural way
  
• Providing high quality leadership education based on modern practices and theories 
  
• Facilitating dynamic, engaging conversations between class members 
  
• Offering interactive activities that aid in learning and relationship building
  
• Attending a pre-session meeting with the LDA staff and committee 
  

Legal experience is not a requirement.

Responses should be submitted by Aug. 31, 2022.

Click here to download the RFP.

###

About LDA
The ISBA Leadership Development Academy (LDA) prepares the next generation of leaders among Indiana’s legal professionals. The program brings together a cohort of about 20 attorneys who attend five multi-day sessions throughout the state.

LDA has developed attorneys for over a decade. Today, LDA alumni are leading the ISBA and serving as judges, corporate leaders, firm managing partners, and nonprofit and private sector board members. More importantly, they are leading their communities while staying true to their personal goals and values.

About ISBA
As the largest legal organization in Indiana, the Indiana State Bar Association empowers its members (lawyers, judges, paralegals, law librarians, law students, and court administrators) to thrive professionally and personally. It works to find solutions to members’ professional challenges, connect them with others in the profession across the state, and advocate on behalf of the profession.

“The conclusion of our lease afforded ISBA the opportunity to take a fresh look at the ways in which the amount and configuration of our office spaces allows us to efficiently serve our members,” said ISBA President Clayton C. Miller. “Our new streamlined headquarters in the Capital Center offers members enhanced opportunities to convene and connect in a convenient central location while still providing flexible offices for our staff to continue their work on behalf of our membership.”

About the new office

The new headquarters is designed as a gathering space for members. From its custom-configured suite on the 12^th floor of the Capital Center’s south tower the ISBA will be able to host mid-sized networking events, CLE, and section/committee meetings. Members can reserve individual offices within the headquarters free of charge for their personal or ISBA-related business: to work during the day, host client meetings or hang out between downtown business meetings. 

The Capital Center is also home to Indiana Supreme Court offices and is within walking distance of the Indiana Statehouse and the Birch Bayh Federal Building. It has several public spaces designed for casual meeting and working.

Learn more about the building here.

About the selection process

The Capital Center location was selected after an initial study, touring, and vetting by a taskforce made up of volunteer members, which began by identifying members’ needs for a headquarters office. The Capital Center was selected for its modern amenities, flexible space, and competitive pricing.

Brief office closure

ISBA staff will work remotely during the transition and will remain fully available to members. Contact ISBA as you normally would, and click here to view the staff directory.

###