Indianapolis, IN — In a significant judicial shift, Mary DeBoer, a seasoned Porter Circuit Judge, was recently appointed to the Indiana Court of Appeals. Governor Eric Holcomb announced her appointment as a replacement for retiring Judge Patricia Riley.
Her selection marks a continuation of Governor Holcomb’s influence on the state judiciary, bringing his appointments tally to seven during his tenure. Governor Holcomb, who is nearing the conclusion of his second term, celebrated DeBoer’s appointment with high praise for her legal acumen and dedication to judicial service.
“Judge DeBoer is a person of immense integrity, intellect, and energy,” Governor Holcomb expressed in a statement. “Her commitment to the law and justice will serve her fellow Hoosiers with distinction.”
DeBoer, 57, brings a wealth of experience from the Porter Circuit Court, where, since 2019, she has adjudicated a diverse docket including civil and criminal cases. Her judicial responsibilities have covered serious charges such as murder and complex malpractice lawsuits.
Beyond her general court duties, Judge DeBoer has led specialized courts aimed at addressing juvenile issues, family drug problems, truancy, and mental health. These roles have demonstrated her commitment to tailoring justice to rehabilitate rather than merely punish, reflecting a progressive approach to her judicial responsibilities.
Her prior experience also includes eight years as a magistrate judge in the Porter Superior Court, and her early career as a deputy prosecutor in Porter and Starke counties. This extensive background in various facets of the legal system prepared her for the appellate role, showcasing her capability to handle complex legal challenges.
One of DeBoer’s standout initiatives as a judicial officer was the creation of Indiana’s first truancy problem-solving court. She shared a heartening anecdote during her interview with the Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission about a truant teenager who not only graduated from high school because of this program but also influenced his brother and father to earn their GEDs.
Her nomination was the culmination of a competitive selection process involving eight applicants, from which the Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission also considered candidates such as Lake Superior Judge Stephen Scheele and St. Joseph Superior Court Judge Stephanie Steele, finally recommending DeBoer among three finalists.
The Indiana Court of Appeals, where she will shortly serve, is the state’s second-highest court. It handles appeals from Indiana’s trial courts, delivering justice on diverse issues affecting the state and its residents.
Details of when Judge DeBoer will officially be sworn in and receive her judicial robe are still forthcoming, with the court set to schedule the ceremonial proceedings soon. Her arrival at the Court of Appeals is eagerly anticipated, with expectations for her to continue her impactful work at a higher judicial capacity.