What is the most important way you exercise discretion in family court cases?

Procedural due process is critically important in order to effectively exercise judicial discretion in a family court case. I strive to keep an open mind, to give parties a fair opportunity to be heard, to apply the law to the testimony and evidence presented, and to keep the best interest of children paramount.

What do you take into account when considering child custody cases?

I use the law as my guide when determining a child custody case. Specifically, IC 31-17-2-8 provides the factors that courts are to consider when assessing a child’s best interest in a custody dispute.

What is an essential lesson you’ve learned about handling family court cases over the course of your career?

It is important to keep an open mind, to give all parties a fair chance to be heard, to consider all presented positions, and to apply the applicable laws in order to make a just decision that might forever impact a family.