STATEHOUSE (Feb. 13, 2019) — The Indiana House of Representatives supported State Reps. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) and Heath VanNatter’s (R-Kokomo) legislation allowing Howard County courts to appoint a magistrate to assist with cases.
The Howard County magistrate would jointly serve the county circuit and superior courts, preside over minor civil and criminal cases, and conduct preliminary hearings without the presence of a judge.
According to the Indiana Judicial Branch’s Weighted Caseload Study, Howard County ranked 10th in terms of judicial officer need.
“A magistrate would be able to expedite the high volume of cases making their way through the local courts,” Karickhoff said. “By allowing the magistrate to conduct assessments and offer alternatives to incarcerations for those arrested while their case is being processed, officials can reduce the county jail population.”
Currently, 31 counties across the state have at least one magistrate. If this legislation is adopted, this would be Howard County’s first magistrate.
“Local officials support appointing a magistrate to ease the courts’ growing caseloads,” VanNatter said. “After learning of Howard County’s need for a magistrate, providing courts the flexibility to appoint this position could make our local judicial system more efficient.”
House Bill 1118 now moves to the Senate for consideration. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
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State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30, which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
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State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) represents House District 38, which includes portions of Carroll, Cass, Howard and Clinton counties.
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