ABOUT ME

My name is James (Jim) Macalka.  I am a lifelong resident of La Porte County, born and raised in La Porte.  I have practiced law in La Porte for more than 30 years, operating my own law office throughout that time.

In June 2025, I opened an exploratory committee for the position of Judge of La Porte Superior Court No. 3, located in the La Porte County Courthouse.  I formally declared my candidacy on January 9, 2026, for the November 2026 election.

La Porte Superior Court No. 3 primarily handles misdemeanor criminal cases, as well as civil matters including small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and collection cases.   I have appeared in this court regularly throughout my legal career.  I have also served as a substitute judge on numerous occasions in both La Porte and Michigan City when full-time judges were unavailable.

During my career, I have handled state and federal cases involving criminal and civil matters, as well as adult and juvenile cases.  My experience includes jury trial and appeals.  In addition to private practice, I have served as a Deputy Prosecutor and currently serve as a Deputy Public Defender handling felony case.  These roles have provided me with a well-rounded perspective of the judicial system.

WHY I AM SEEKING THIS POSITION

Throughout my legal career, I have represented individuals charged with both misdemeanor and felony offenses.  Over time, I have observed that some individuals initially charged with less serious offenses later become involved in more serious criminal matters.

Based on my experience, untreated mental health concerns and substance abuse issues often play a role in this progression.  These factors frequently complicate cases and outcomes for individuals appearing before the court.

As a judge, it is essential to apply the law fairly while exercising sound judicial discretion.  Courts must balance accountability, public safety, and appropriate consideration of each individual’s circumstances.  That balance is not always easy to achieve and depends on the facts of each case.

In misdemeanor cases, courts often consider release options such as recognizance or modest bond conditions.  These decisions require careful judgement.  In appropriate cases, courts may also consider evaluations or services designed to address underlying issues while matters are pending, consistent with the law and the presumption of innocence.

Judicial discretion, when exercised thoughtfully and within legal boundaries, can help reduce recidivism and promote compliance with court orders.  My goal is to apply the law impartially, treat all parties with respect, and ensure that proceedings are conducted fairly and efficiently.

VETERANS COURT 

Superior Court 3 also operates—and has jurisdiction over—the Veterans Court in La Porte County. This court serves Veterans who have honorably served our country and who, upon returning to civilian life, may struggle with emotional challenges, mental health conditions, or substance-use issues stemming from depression, trauma, or isolation, when returning to Civilian life.

These challenges can sometimes lead to criminal charges. The Veterans Court provides an alternative path to accountability and rehabilitation by offering Veterans the support of peer mentors—fellow Veterans—as well as access to counseling and treatment services, while they work through their cases.

I recently had the privilege of presiding over the Veterans Court on one occasion, and I was deeply moved by the level of commitment, compassion, and structure provided by the support team surrounding each Veteran. Seeing Veterans encouraged, held accountable, and supported as they addressed both their legal matters and personal challenges was truly uplifting.

DEMOCRAT/REPUBLICAN 

I do not believe party affiliation is, nor should be, a relevant factor in selecting or voting for a judge. The judiciary—and law enforcement—must be guided by the rule of law, not by politics.

In more than 35 years of practicing law, I have never been asked by a judge, nor have I ever asked a judge, about their party affiliation. Every lawyer understands that cases are not won or lost—especially in criminal court—based on whether someone is a Democrat or a Republican, but on the facts, the law, and fair application of both.

That further in 2023 I also served on the La Porte County Election Board, where Democrats and Republicans worked as a unit. 

That said, I am a proud Democrat, as my voting history reflects.

I am seeking this position to bring my experience, sound judgment, and even temperament to the bench, and to serve the people of La Porte County with fairness, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law.

Thank you, voters,

James M. Macalka

Candidate for La Porte County Judge, Superior Court 3