Judge James W. Burns: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

Hon. James W. Burns is a magistrate for the Steuben County Circuit Court in Indiana. He was appointed to the bench in 2020.

Burns also serves as a magistrate for the Steuben County Superior Court.

Prior to his appointment, he handled criminal, divorce, family, and business law matters as a private practice attorney, having established his law office in 1984. During that time, he served as a public defender in criminal matters since 1988.

Burns began his judicial career as a judge for the Steuben County Court in 1981, remaining in that capacity until it transitioned to the Superior Court in 1984. Before joining the bench, he worked for two years as a chief deputy prosecutor with the Steuben County Prosecutor’s Office (1979 to 1981).

Burns received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. He went on to complete a J.D. at Indiana University School of Law in 1979. He was admitted to practice in Indiana (1979), New York (1974), and Tennessee (1984).

His memberships include the Indiana State Bar Association and the Steuben County Bar Association.

Burns was named in the “Top 100” in Indiana for criminal law by the Nationa Trial Lawyers.

From a civic standpoint, he has been involved with the Steuben County Community Foundation, RISE, and the United Way.

At the time of his appointment, Burns resided in Angola with his wife, Shayne.