Hon. James K. Snyder
Marion Superior Court, Criminal Division D32
How long have you been a Marion Superior Court judge, Judicial officer?
I was appointed by Governor Eric Holcomb and began my term January 1, 2025. Before that, I was appointed Magistrate/Commissioner on March 23, 2015.
Other projects, committees, or service roles you are involved in off the bench?
Newly elected to the Judicial Conference Board of Directors, appointed to the Marion County Community Corrections Advisory Board, IOCS Criminal Benchbook Committee, Indianapolis Bar Association's Board of Directors, and IndyBar's Criminal Justice Section Executive Committee.
Best tip you have for lawyers appearing in your court or criminal law courts in general?
Be on time or let us know why you cannot be. Be fully prepared and anticipate the questions the court will ask that will be important for that particular hearing.
You mentor(s) and the greatest insight you gained from them?
There are so many to name, and I feel like I learn insight or something new from everyone I meet. But I would pick my parents, who instilled in me my work ethic and passion for public service. They always told me, "education is something that can't be taken away from you," so I continue to try to learn each day.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I've always found my outlets to be getting outdoors and music. So, I spend a lot of my free time with my wife hiking (at least one hike a month for at least the last five years) and going to live concerts. I also love spending time with my nieces (4 years old and 2 years old).
If you weren't a judge, what would you be doing?
In a dream world, I would be traveling the world with my wife. But realistically, I'd still be practicing law and likely still in criminal law. I still find it interesting. Plus, I've hear bourbon and hiking/camping don't pay the bills.
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