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KURT M. EISGRUBER
Marion Civil Court
Civil Term Chair
How long have you been a judge?
I have been a judge for nearly 15 years. Prior to being elected I did not serve in a judicial capacity. I have served in Marion Civil Court 6 for nearly five years. Prior to that, I served in Criminal Court 1 for 10 years.
Other projects, committees, or service roles off the bench?
• Since February I have served as the civil term chair over the nine civil courts in Marion County. One focus of effort has been bringing proceedings supplemental back in-person rather than by video. I appreciate the frustration of many in the collection bar, but it was a necessary shift.
• I am the welcome leader for an upcoming retreat at my church.
• I serve on the Indiana War Memorial Foundation Board. The board is responsible for the Bricks of Honor on Monument Circle and for assisting the director of the war memorials in Indianapolis with funding needs he may have. Only Washington, D.C., has more memorials honoring those who have served in our armed forces than Indianapolis.
Best tips for lawyers?
Litigation is not easy. Hearings and trials can bring a lot of anxiety for many. Every attorney has their own style and approach. I respect that and always attempt to reduce tensions. To that end, candor with one another and with the court are really appreciated.
Who is your mentor, and what insight have you gained?
My father, Richard J. Eisgruber, who has honored my mother, Anni, for 60 years of marital bliss. They are quite a pair and have set quite a standard. My siblings, Mark and Kerri, and I recognize how fortunate we are.
What is a common misperceptions about being a judge?
That we think we’re the smartest one in the room, when we are clearly not. Counsel are the subject matter experts in any case before us, and I owe it to them to be prepared for hearing so I can best utilize my opportunity to listen, question and gain clarity on their perspective.
If I weren’t a judge:
As attorneys we are all historians grounded in case law and statutes. So, I would teach history at a place where I could best impact kids. Unfortunately, much of our past has been swept into the dustbin of history …
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