Karin McGrath, former Kosciusko County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and currently practicing civil and criminal law at Rockhill Pinnick, submitted her candidacy forms this morning in Indianapolis to formally begin her campaign for the Superior Court III seat left open by the upcoming retirement of the Honorable Judge Joe Sutton.
“Today is an exciting day for me and my family. My journey with the law and in service to my community has led me to this moment,” McGrath said. “I could not be more humbled and encouraged by the outpouring of support I have received. Now it’s time to get to work.”
After serving as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, McGrath joined the Warsaw law firm of Rockhill Pinnick where she now represents clients in a variety of areas including civil matters, family law, estate planning, zoning and land use, landlord/tenant issues and criminal defense.
“The Superior Court III caseload is comprised of felony criminal cases, small claims, landlord/tenant disputes, collections, and more,” she said. “The wide breadth of my experience in both the Prosecutor’s Office and in private practice uniquely and positively positions me to serve as judge over these cases.
McGrath has had a unique career path prior to practicing law. She earned a degree in Education from Greenville College, a small, Christian college in southern Illinois. For over 20 years, Karin and her husband of 32 years, Keith have called Warsaw home. Together they have two children: Gavin, who recently completed medical school, and Calli, who lives in Ohio with her husband and two daughters.
McGrath sought ways to serve her community when her children were older, so she returned to school at Valparaiso University School of Law. After admission to the Indiana State Bar, McGrath served Kosciusko County as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for over seven years, prosecuting a wide range of case types, including misdemeanors and major felonies.
“I gained extensive and invaluable experience as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and learned to balance incredibly large caseloads — a necessary skill for both a prosecutor and a judge,” McGrath said. “I successfully conducted countless criminal bench trials, and tried several felony cases to juries. I believe it is essential for a judge who will hear criminal cases to have experience trying criminal cases both to the bench and to a jury.”
As well as officially declaring her candidacy, McGrath also named her campaign team. Dr. Steven Hollar will serve as Campaign Chair and manage the campaign.
“How many people have the courage to follow their dreams, chart a new course, and ‘go big’ like that later in life? It’s inspiring the way Karin continues to defy norms and expectations in order to serve her community. This is the next step in an impressive lifelong commitment to public service and I’m proud to be a part of this team,” Hollar said.
Hollar is a graduate of DePauw University, Indiana University School of Dentistry and the Misch International Implant Institute. He is married to Jennifer, owns a dental practice in Warsaw, and is father to three children.
“We’ve got an absolutely top notch team of volunteers that are fired up and ready to get Karin on the bench. I’m beyond excited for what the next several months hold,” Hollar said.
Warsaw Community School Board member Michael Coon will serve as campaign treasurer.
Coon is a graduate of Butler University and completed his Masters of Business Administration at Indiana University. He has been involved in the healthcare field since 1985, and is currently employed with Nextremity Solutions, Inc. Coon lives in Warsaw with his wife, Christine, and is father to three children.
“Just talking with Karin you’re overwhelmed by her love and dedication to the law and public service. While others in her field may feel burned out and cynical, Karin is absolutely on fire and passionate about practicing law. I have known Karin for over 20 years and am honored to be a part of this campaign,” Coon said.
As well as her executive campaign committee, McGrath is backed by dozens of volunteers fueled by her consistent service to community and love for the law.
As one volunteer said, “When I heard last October Karin was running, I found her number and called immediately to volunteer in anyway she could use me. It’s so refreshing to see someone of her character to take the step into public service. I can’t wait to vote for her.”
McGrath would be the first woman to serve as judge in Kosciusko County.
