January 21, 2016
This date in 2013 was the Inauguration of President Barack Obama for a second term. I reflect back that I had two terms as a former judge in small claims court starting in 2007. My second term began in 2011 and was the most challenging by far. I had a contentious battle with several politicians and my court was targeted to be moved. In the end, I won the court battle but lost my bid for a third term and the politics wore me down. Despite the wins and losses, I would not change the experience in my second term because of the lessons I learned in small claims court during the 4 year period.
Tenacity: the quality or fact of continuing to exist; persistence.
Courage: strength in the face of pain or grief.
Loyalty: a strong feeling of support or allegiance.
Creativity: the ability to make new things or think of new ideas.
Conflict: a difference that prevents agreement; a struggle for power, property, etc.
Failure: a falling short.
A protracted battle has it's costs and can wear on you. I can only imagine how President Obama feels during his last years in office. The magnitude of all he has accomplished, and fought, in a short period in history is overwhelming. I started collecting magazines with President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama on the cover right after the first election in 2008. The excitement of a new president that was more like me than any other made me into an instant fan. I stacked magazines in closets and by my bedside and eventually put them in boxes. Seven years later I have looked back at some of the magazines, but most have become wrinkled, worn and recycled. That is exactly how life happens in some situations. The excitement is palpable. We cherish the moments and work hard, but eventually we get worn out and wrinkled over time. We must throw away the old and begin again. There will not be another term, but life's next chapter awaits. I am happy that in January 2016, I can look back and reflect on a past with many bright moments. I treasure the moments and I am grateful for the lessons that have made me a better person. I may be wrinkled and worn, but I don't regret a thing.
Best regards,
Michelle Smith Scott
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Thursday, October 9, 2014
A New Chapter & Future
"If you learn the lessons in the current chapter, you don't fear turning the page to the next chapter."
- RDS
My last day on the bench was October 3, 2014. I truly thank God for the opportunity to help so many people and learn so much. It has been a privilege. This blog will continue, but my new focus will be on my reflections after my career at the Court. My future endeavors will continue at www.michellesmithscott.com
"If you learn the lessons in the current chapter, you don't fear turning the page to the next chapter."
- RDS
My last day on the bench was October 3, 2014. I truly thank God for the opportunity to help so many people and learn so much. It has been a privilege. This blog will continue, but my new focus will be on my reflections after my career at the Court. My future endeavors will continue at www.michellesmithscott.com
Friday, October 5, 2012
New Local Rules
Navigating the New Local Rules for Small Claims Court
The Marion County Small Claims Courts in Indianapolis, IN will have a new set of local rules that apply to all nine (9) of the small claims courts in the county. The local rules are effective January 1, 2013 and can be found here: New Proposed Local Rules for Marion County Small Claims Courts The rules include changes for uniform court hours, filing requirements, forms and other policies. Litigants who file cases in the Marion County Small Claims Courts will be able to navigate the courts better and the changes are designed to improve the accessibility to the courts.
The Marion County Small Claims Courts in Indianapolis, IN will have a new set of local rules that apply to all nine (9) of the small claims courts in the county. The local rules are effective January 1, 2013 and can be found here: New Proposed Local Rules for Marion County Small Claims Courts The rules include changes for uniform court hours, filing requirements, forms and other policies. Litigants who file cases in the Marion County Small Claims Courts will be able to navigate the courts better and the changes are designed to improve the accessibility to the courts.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Be Brief
Communicating in the Courtroom
The best advice for communicating in the courtroom is: Be Brief. The best way to explain your
problem is in a clear and direct way. Do
not muddy your position by trying to “throw mud” on your opposing party. It does not work. If you can state your case in less than 5
minutes, do so. Your most important
points will always take less than 5 minutes to explain. Leave out all the rest.
Here's a link to a great article on brevity: How To Be Brief
Take care,
Judge Michelle Smith Scott
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Post-Inauguration Thoughts
A New Standard-Bearer
January 20, 2009
On a cold January day, millions of people trekked to Washington, DC to attend the Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, the nation's first African-American President. I chose to stay in Indianapolis and watch the historic moment on TV along with many other millions. At the City-County Building in Indianapolis, there were many people standing near the televisions in the lobby area to catch a glimpse of history. My court staff huddled around a small TV in the court next door. I took the opportunity and raced home to watch the oath with my husband. Most courts paused their morning dockets, or cleared it ahead of time to devote the morning to the Inauguration.
After seeing Barack Obama take the oath of office and the multitudes of people, I told a friend that I feel very proud as an African-American and as a person who inherited the civil rights banner from my parents. But I also confessed that I feel a heavier burden after seeing the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. Why? Because there is something that motivates me when I see another person fulfill a huge achievement. This one was a monumental, awe-inspiring, life-changing achievement. It was a huge deal because it affected so many lives. People flocked to Washington, D.C. and paused to observe because they wanted to be a part of history. People from all over the world were celebrating. My reaction was celebration and a simple commitment: I must do better. On Tuesday, the inauguration greeted me with a renewed obligation to do everything better. I want to do a better job at work, at home and in my daily interactions because they may leave a lasting influence. I believe I can make every aspect of my life better, and the first step is taking on this commitment.
The inauguration taught me that the reward for hard work is more hard work. I have been the judge at the Center Township Small Claims Court for 2 years. Last year, our court had over 15,000 filings. That number is higher than the previous year and is the reward for hard work. I look forward to applying my renewed commitment to every case at the Court and helping litigants resolve their legal disputes. I want my reward to be more hard work. My goal is to have the very best court in the state and to set the standard for small claims courts.
In the book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell writes that it takes 10,000 hours to be become an expert in any field or enterprise. To be a standard-bearer you must be an expert. My goal is to be a standard-bearer in my field and the inauguration not only inspired me, but motivated me to press on!
I hope the celebration in Washington, DC did the same for you-- Press On!
Yours truly,
Michelle Smith Scott
January 20, 2009
On a cold January day, millions of people trekked to Washington, DC to attend the Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, the nation's first African-American President. I chose to stay in Indianapolis and watch the historic moment on TV along with many other millions. At the City-County Building in Indianapolis, there were many people standing near the televisions in the lobby area to catch a glimpse of history. My court staff huddled around a small TV in the court next door. I took the opportunity and raced home to watch the oath with my husband. Most courts paused their morning dockets, or cleared it ahead of time to devote the morning to the Inauguration.
After seeing Barack Obama take the oath of office and the multitudes of people, I told a friend that I feel very proud as an African-American and as a person who inherited the civil rights banner from my parents. But I also confessed that I feel a heavier burden after seeing the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. Why? Because there is something that motivates me when I see another person fulfill a huge achievement. This one was a monumental, awe-inspiring, life-changing achievement. It was a huge deal because it affected so many lives. People flocked to Washington, D.C. and paused to observe because they wanted to be a part of history. People from all over the world were celebrating. My reaction was celebration and a simple commitment: I must do better. On Tuesday, the inauguration greeted me with a renewed obligation to do everything better. I want to do a better job at work, at home and in my daily interactions because they may leave a lasting influence. I believe I can make every aspect of my life better, and the first step is taking on this commitment.
The inauguration taught me that the reward for hard work is more hard work. I have been the judge at the Center Township Small Claims Court for 2 years. Last year, our court had over 15,000 filings. That number is higher than the previous year and is the reward for hard work. I look forward to applying my renewed commitment to every case at the Court and helping litigants resolve their legal disputes. I want my reward to be more hard work. My goal is to have the very best court in the state and to set the standard for small claims courts.
In the book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell writes that it takes 10,000 hours to be become an expert in any field or enterprise. To be a standard-bearer you must be an expert. My goal is to be a standard-bearer in my field and the inauguration not only inspired me, but motivated me to press on!
I hope the celebration in Washington, DC did the same for you-- Press On!
Yours truly,
Michelle Smith Scott
Monday, January 28, 2008
2007 Progress Report
January 2008
The year begins with a 2007 Progress Report. In 2007, the Center Township Small Claims Court had a record year for case filings-- over 14,000! The new year brings the opportunity to give a progress report from my perspective as judge. I am very proud that our court was able to serve a record number of litigants. In 2007, we were able to streamline the court calendar and make the landlord-tenant proceedings faster and less congested by setting staggered hearing times. We also heard from many landlords who noticed that the court decreased the time gap between the filing and hearing date for evictions. A real estate case is now set for hearing in two (2) weeks.
Now for the areas we still must improve.
Continuances. In 2008, the court aims to rule on continuances and other motions requesting rescheduling in a much shorter time period. The goal is to have motions for continuance ruled on in less than three (3) days.
All Other Motions. In 2008, the court aims to rule on all other motions in less than thirty (30) days. This does not include Exemption Hearings or Motions to Set Possession Aside, or other motions that are more time-sensitive and may require an emergency or expedited ruling.
Litigants will notice a few other changes to court operation in 2008.
Redocket Fee. Effective February 1, 2008, a $5.00 Redocket Fee is required for all Motions to Set Dismissal Aside, pursuant to Indiana Code Sec. 33-34-8-1.
Copies. Litigants must have copies of any documents presented at trial for the court's file. The court staff cannot make copies.
Repayment Plans. Litigants who have a judgment against them may set up payment arrangements and pay the court directly by completing a Repayment Plan form. Repayment plans must have the approval of the court, pursuant to Small Claims Court Rule 11 (C) which states:
Method of Payment. Modification. The court may order a judgment paid the prevailing party in any specified manner. If the judgment is not paid as ordered the court may modify its payment order as it deems necessary. The judgment creditor may seek enforcement of his judgment by any other method provided by law.
The goal for 2008 is to help the Center Township Small Claims Court become more effective for litigants through improved court operations.
Every year brings new hope and new potential and always brings opportunity for improvement!
Have a great day!
Judge Michelle Smith Scott
For more information about landlord-tenant, collections, or other small claims matters, contact the Center Township of Marion County Small Claims Court, Indianapolis, Indiana at (317) 327-5060.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Thankful To Serve
Thanksgiving 2007
The Thanksgiving Holiday has come and gone and we are all recovering from too much turkey. This year my family donated and volunteered to serve at the Mozel Sanders Foundation Thanksgiving Dinner which serves 30,000 meals on Thanksgiving Day. One of the things I am grateful for is the opportunity to give, especially on a day when everyone is thankful for something.
There are many things we should be thankful for everyday. The obvious things are family, friends, good health, etc. I am thankful for the open and fair legal process that Small Claims Court offers everyone. The legal process can help repair, protect, compensate and equalize many aspects of our daily living. A renter is often thankful for affordable housing that is maintained in good condition. A property owner is often thankful for neighbors and tenants who respect boundaries and property. A patient is often thankful for a bill collector who shows respect for their difficult situation by accepting payment arrangements.
Relationships with Family & Friends. Affordable Housing. Good Health.
As a small claims court judge, I hear many trials involving housing, credit, personal injury and a variety of all types of disputes. I must bring patience, dignity and courtesy to the bench everyday. To every case. To every person. I am thankful to serve the Center Township Small Claims Court and settle disputes that affect so many aspects of our life.
Happy Thanksgiving-- everyday.
Judge Michelle Smith Scott
For more information about landlord-tenant issues, credit collection, or other small claims matters, contact the Center Township of Marion County Small Claims Court, Indianapolis, Indiana at (317) 327-5060.
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