Magistrate Aaron “A.J.” Johnson honored with robing ceremony

Veteran employee of Indiana Supreme Court tapped for open position

Magistrate Aaron “A.J.” Johnson was honored with a robing ceremony on Aug. 1 at the Hamilton County Government & Judicial Center in Noblesville.

Johnson was recently hired by the county’s eight elected judges. He fills the seat of Valorie Hahn who recently became the county’s new juvenile magistrate.

Justice Christopher M. Goff of the Indiana Supreme Court swears in Magistrate Johnson with his family standing by. (Photo provided)

“Becoming a judge has been a life-long dream of mine,” Magistrate Johnson said. “I’m completely elated. I’m raising my family in Hamilton County, so I’m honored to also now be serving my community.”

Magistrate Johnson being robed by Circuit Court Judge Andrew Bloch and Superior Court No. 2 Judge Jonathan Brown. (Photo provided)

Magistrate Johnson grew up in Gary, Ind., with a family of 12 children.

“I grew up helping my parents resolve disputes,” Magistrate Johnson said. “It’s a skill set I’ve been working on my whole life. So, I like to think I’m open-minded and open to hearing different opinions.”

Prior to this, Magistrate Johnson worked as General Counsel at the Indiana Supreme Court where he provided legal services to the Supreme Court staff. He also spent six years as trial counsel for the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission where he evaluated and investigated complaints for attorney misconduct. Magistrate Johnson received both his undergraduate and law degrees from Indiana University Bloomington.

“Aaron will be a spectacular addition to the judiciary of Hamilton County,” Superior Court Judge Jonathan Brown said. “He has a unique background with a wide array of experience, from employment law, landlord-tenant matters, contract law, and criminal law. That will enable him to hit the ground running and serve the citizens well. I’m looking forward to working alongside him.”

Magistrate Johnson began work on Monday. Hamilton County now has five magistrate judges that work alongside its eight elected Judges.

Magistrate Johnson with his fellow magistrates. (Photo provided)