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Saturday, November 22, 2008

Ind. Courts - Still more on recommendation for Marion County Superior Court Judge Grant W. Hawkins removal

Updating yesterday's ILB entry, Jon Murray of the Indianapolis Star reports today:

A Marion Superior Court judge whose court mishandled a ruling clearing a man of rape will be suspended after a state commission on Friday recommended his eventual removal from office.

The ultimate decision on Judge Grant Hawkins' fate lies with the Indiana Supreme Court. Until then, the action by the Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications triggers a suspension, with pay, under state judicial rules. * * *

The commission's filing called Hawkins' oversight of his court "negligent and inexplicably casual." It backed an earlier recommendation for his removal by a panel of three judges appointed to hear the disciplinary proceeding.

"The general operation of his court caused a significant loss of liberty to Mr. Buntin, numerous violations of procedural due process to other petitioners, and a general breakdown of the public's trust," the commission says.

Retired Master Commissioner Nancy L. Broyles, who handled Buntin's case, earlier reached a settlement banning her from serving as a judge.

Hawkins, a former defense attorney, is well-regarded by many colleagues and received 90 percent approval in a 2006 Indianapolis Bar Association survey.

"He's been a terrific judge," Marion Superior Court Presiding Judge Gerald Zore said. "It's just a tragic situation."

A side-bar titled "What's Next?" reports:
Before the Indiana Supreme Court issues a disciplinary ruling, Judge Grant Hawkins has 20 days to submit a petition challenging the recommendation by the Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications that he be removed from office. The commission then may submit a reply within 10 days.

Posted by Marcia Oddi on November 22, 2008 01:10 PM
Posted to Indiana Courts