House Bill 1146 Summary

• Creates a circuit and superior court staff attorney pilot program administered by the Indiana judicial center to assist judges with preparing orders on complex motions (motions to dismiss, summary judgment, or other complex motions).

• Makes the pilot program available to at least 5 counties: 2 counties with populations under 50,000, 2 counties with populations between 50,000-200,000, and 1 county with a population of at least 200,000.

• Allows parties to petition courts for staff attorney assistance and permits judges to request research and drafting support; staff attorneys include attorneys, senior judges, or third-year law students.

• Requires the Indiana judicial center to report to the commission on courts during the 2014 and 2015 legislative interims on program costs, participation, and recommendations for statewide expansion, including fee structures and alternative funding sources.

• Chapter expires June 30, 2016, with effective date of July 1, 2014.