House supports Jeter’s legislation to add courts & magistrates in Hamilton County

Jeter

The Indiana House of Representatives on Tuesday unanimously advanced State Rep. Chris Jeter’s (R-Fishers) legislation to establish two new superior courts and appoint two additional magistrates in Hamilton County.

According to Jeter, Hamilton County currently has 11 judges but needs 15. House Bill 1144 would allow for two new Hamilton Superior Court judges to be elected in November 2026. It would also allow Hamilton County judges to appoint two additional magistrates.

“Due to the steady and continued growth in Hamilton County over the last decade, there’s a need for more judicial officers,” said Jeter, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee. “This is a proactive step to ensure our court system has the resources needed to continue serving Hoosiers with timely access to their constitutional rights.”

According to the Indiana Judicial Branch’s 2023 Weighted Caseload Study, Hamilton County ranked first in need of judicial officers.

Jeter said unlike judges who are elected, magistrates are hired to preside over minor civil and criminal cases and conduct preliminary hearings. They also assist with judicial caseloads by administering oaths, compelling the attendance of witnesses, setting bail, conducting hearings and trials, and imposing criminal sentences.

HB 1144 now moves to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, or to watch session and committees live, visit iga.in.gov.

State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88, which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.