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Richard M. Blaiklock
Marion County Superior Court D15, Family Division
How long have you been a Marion Superior Court judge?
Judicial officer? 4 months.
Other projects, committees, or service roles you are involved in off the bench?
My current project is to learn my new job. I am also on the Juvenile Bench Book Committee, and I am working on a law review article with one of my law professors.
Best tip you have for lawyers appearing in your court or criminal law courts in general?
Professionalism is key. To me that means that you are on time, prepared, and civil.
Your mentor(s) and the greatest insight you gained from them?
Robert F. Wagner, G. Daniel Kelley, Jr, John C. Trimble, Jarrell B. (Jerry) Hammond, and Dina M. Cox. Robert’s love for trial work (and trial lawyers) is contagious. He emphasizes the importance of being honest in the courtroom and when communicating with other lawyers. Dan impressed on me the importance of strategic thinking. John taught me that flamboyance is not necessary to be an effective advocate, and how to network. Jerry taught me the importance of being responsive to clients. Dina taught me confidence, compassion, and to step back and take a new look at a difficult case.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Spending time with family, golfing (badly), playing hockey (even worse), reading, and walking.
If you weren’t a judge, what would you be doing?
I grew up wanting to be a racecar driver. So, at my age, whatever a retired Indycar driver would be doing, which I imagine is: Telling stories about races I should have won and going to any race I want to, with good seats.
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