Melanie Reichert has been appointed by the Indiana Supreme Court as a hearing officer in attorney discipline cases

In January 2011, Melanie Reichert was selected by Indiana Supreme Court Justice Steven David as a hearing officer for attorney discipline cases. Hearing officers preside over cases in which the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission has filed a complaint against an attorney alleging violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. After presentation of evidence or upon submission of an agreement, hearing officers determine whether violations of the professional rules and make recommendations as to attorney discipline to the Indiana Supreme Court. The five justices of the Indiana Supreme Court are each responsible for specific districts throughout the State. Within their district, each Justice may select the hearing officers he wishes to preside over discipline cases that area. “To be nominated for any position by a member of the State’s highest court is a tremendous honor, “ Reichert said. “It is even more humbling to learn that a Justice trusts your judgment in the field of attorney discipline since the reputation and public perception of the bar rely on the effective administration of those cases.” Reichert has accepted an appointment and is currently presiding over her first disciplinary case.