Indiana Judicial Branch: Office of Judicial Administration: Senior Judges

In 1989, the legislature authorized the creation of the Senior Judge program allowing Indiana courts to use the services of retired or former judges to supplement existing judicial resources (IC 33-23-3-1). As envisioned, courts now use senior judges as a replacement in the absence of a regular judge, as a complement to the regular judge or to oversee the processing of certain types of cases or court programs.

The Indiana Supreme Court is responsible for promulgating rules to further define the certification and appointment process for senior judges (IC 33-24-3-7). In response to the continuing growth of the senior judge program, the Supreme Court promulgated Administrative Rule 5 in 2003, which delineated the parameters for the certification and use of senior judges.

Apply for Senior Judge Certification or Recertification

Submit Statement of Intent to Terminate as a Senior Judge

Senior Judge Portal

The Senior Judge Portal is available via INcite to sitting and senior judges. Senior judges can update their profile and submit claims through the INcite application. Sitting judges may view the senior judge roster, including senior judge contact information.