Summary of Evidence

A consolidated view of the primary sources documenting Marc L. Griffin’s appointment and service as Justice of the Peace in 1974. These records support the case, presented in the main article on the world’s youngest judge, that Mr. Griffin held a functionally judicial office and qualifies under the Guinness functional definition.

Evidence What It Shows
Governor’s Commission, February 19, 1974 Marc Griffin was commissioned as Justice of the Peace in Indiana at age 17.
Indiana Attorney General’s Opinion Confirmed that the Justice of the Peace office held judicial authority over civil and criminal matters.
1974 Newspaper Accounts Contemporaneous sources across the United States described him as a teenage judge / justice of the peace.
Court Ruling, August 1974 His eligibility to serve as Justice of the Peace was upheld.
Guinness World Records Certificate Guinness World Records recognized him as the Youngest Judge.

I. Guinness World Record Recognition

  • Guinness World Records Certificate 2011
    Guinness World Records certificate awarded to Marc L. Griffin stating he holds the record for Youngest Judge at age 17, appointed and commissioned as Justice of the Peace in Johnson County, Indiana, on February 19, 1974.
  • Guinness World Records December 2023
    Seventeen-Year-Old Judge Conducted Marriages Before He Was Old Enough to Get Married

    “One wedding stands out vividly in my memory: a couple eager to become the inaugural married pair in Indiana for 1975, with me presiding over their ceremony at the exact moment the clock struck midnight on December 31, 1974,” he said. “I arranged for access to the county courthouse, where I conducted the ceremony in its grand rotunda as the new year commenced.”

    Read full article
    By Aliciamarie Rodriguez
  • ABA Journal American Bar Association 31 October 2011
    Indiana Lawyer Who Started His Legal Career as a 17-Year-Old Judge Gets the World Record

    “I discovered this justice of the peace thing,” Griffin recalled in an interview with the ABA Journal, “and I thought, ‘Wait a minute, we need another court and I’m qualified.’” He requested a meeting with the county’s three commissioners, and persuaded them to recommend his appointment. The state’s governor concurred and gave him his commission.

    Read full article
    By Debra Cassens Weiss
  • The Daily Journal Johnson County, Indiana 2 November 2011
    Daily Journal front page, November 2, 2011: Lawyer holds Guinness record — Local attorney deemed youngest judge, by Tom Lange
  • The Indiana Lawyer 9 November 2011
    Indiana Lawyer front page, November 9–22, 2011: Greenwood attorney is world's youngest judge, by Jennifer Nelson

II. Governor’s Appointment (February 1974)

  • The Daily Journal 20 February 1974
    Daily Journal, February 20, 1974: Youngest JP in history of state? — Marc L. Griffin reviews state code book, by Terry Anderson
  • The Indianapolis Star 21 February 1974
    Indianapolis Star, February 21, 1974: Marryin' Marc, The New J.P., Found Job Right Out Of School, by Craig ItoIndianapolis Star, February 21, 1974: Marryin' Marc, The New J.P. — continued from page 1, detailing Griffin's court duties, civil and criminal jurisdiction, and plans to run in the May primary
  • Tipton County Tribune 22 February 1974
    Tipton County Tribune, 22 February 1974 (UPI): 'JP Is Too Young To Marry' — Marc T. Griffin of Greenwood, appointed Justice of the Peace for White River Township by the Johnson County commissioners, has to wait three months to marry without parental permission but expects to officiate several marriages while still 17; discusses Griffin's plans to lobby the Indiana Legislature to retain the JP court system, his income limits as township JP, and his registration for both the May primary and fall elections
  • Judicature American Judicature Society May 1974
    Judicature magazine, May 1974: Indiana Gets 17-year-old JP — Marc L. Griffin of Greenwood appointed Justice of the Peace, national publication of the American Judicature Society

III. Governor’s Commission

Official commission document from Governor Otis Bowen appointing Marc L. Griffin as Justice of the Peace.

  • Governor’s Commission Official Document — February 1974
    Official commission from Governor Otis R. Bowen, M.D., State of Indiana, appointing Marc L. Griffin as Justice of the Peace, White River Township, Johnson County, Indiana, effective February 19, 1974 — bearing the Great Seal of Indiana and signatures of the Governor and Secretary of State

IV. Attorney General’s Opinion (March 1974)

  • Official Opinion No. 1 Indiana Attorney General 19 March 1974
    Official Opinion of the Attorney General of Indiana

    Addressed to Governor Otis R. Bowen in response to his request regarding the proper construction of Indiana Constitution and statutes defining age eligibility for holding office, and how it affects the appointment of a 17-year-old as Justice of the Peace. Attorney General Theodore L. Sendak concluded: “A 17-year-old person is not old enough to take the oath of office as a Justice of the Peace in Indiana.” The Attorney General’s opinion was only advisory and not legally binding. A court of law later upheld the appointment, contrary to the Attorney General’s conclusion.

    Read full opinion
    1974 O.A.G. — IU Indianapolis ScholarWorks
  • The Daily Journal 19 March 1974
    News bulletin, March 1974: Indiana Attorney General Theodore Sendak issues opinion that a state official must be 21 years old to take an oath of office, in reference to the appointment of 17-year-old Marc Griffin as Justice of the Peace for White River Township, Johnson County
  • The Daily Journal 20 March 1974
    The Daily Journal, 20 March 1974: 'JP too young? (Griffin says no; Sendak says yes)' — by Terry Anderson, Journal Staff Writer, with photo of Marc L. Griffin holding documents, reporting on Attorney General Theodore Sendak's opinion that Griffin is too young to serve as Justice of the Peace and Griffin's determination to remain in officeThe Daily Journal, 20 March 1974 (continued from front page): 'Too young?' — Marc Griffin states he will 'test' the Attorney General's opinion if challenged in court, stresses he filed because he saw a serious need for a Justice of the Peace, and warns that if removed he will prepare for elective office by age 21
  • The Indianapolis Star 20 March 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, 20 March 1974: 'Justice Of Peace, 17, Too Young: Sendak' — by Robert P. Mooney, reporting Attorney General Theodore L. Sendak's opinion that the 26th Amendment does not supersede state age requirements for holding public office, in reference to Marc L. Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace in White River TownshipThe Indianapolis Star, 20 March 1974 (continued from page 1): 'Justice Of Peace, 17, Too Young: Sendak' — Star photo by William A. Oates showing teen-ager Marc Griffin with State Senator Robert D. Garton at the Statehouse; Griffin calls the opinion merely advisory, says he will go to court to defend his position, and details his plans to open a single-room office at 9000 South Meridian Street
  • Associated Press (AP) and United Press International (UPI) 20 March 1974
    United Press International wire story, March 1974: JP Is Too Young To Marry — 17-year-old Marc Griffin appointed Justice of the Peace for White River Township by Johnson County CommissionersAP, UPI and Bee Photos, March 1974: 'Mulling Decision' — Justice of the Peace Marc L. Griffin of Greenwood, Indiana, at 17 the state's youngest public official, studies the Attorney General's decision citing him as too young to hold office; Griffin vows not to give up the post without a fight
  • The Star Press Muncie, Indiana 20 March 1974
    The Star Press (Muncie, Indiana), 20 March 1974: 'Sendak Says Youthful JP Isn't Legal' — AP wire report that Attorney General Theodore L. Sendak advised Governor Otis R. Bowen that 17-year-old Marc L. Griffin, commissioned as White River Township Justice of the Peace, cannot legally hold office; notes Sendak's opinion is advisory and would not force Griffin from office unless challenged in court

Wire Service Spread

Once wire services picked up the story, it spread fast to newspapers across the U.S. and Canada. Editors leaned into the story with sharp headlines to draw readers in. Some headlines went so far that they verged on outright fabrication.

Below are a few examples that ran in papers nationwide:

  • Arizona Daily Star Tucson, Arizona 21 March 1974
    Arizona Daily Star (Tucson, Arizona), 21 March 1974: headline 'Too Young As Judge?' — wire service coverage of the Attorney General's opinion on Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Monroe News Star Monroe, Louisiana 20 March 1974
    The Monroe News Star (Monroe, Louisiana), 20 March 1974: headline 'Justice Of Peace Ruled Too Young' — wire service coverage of the Attorney General's ruling on Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Central New Jersey Home News New Brunswick, New Jersey 20 March 1974
    The Central New Jersey Home News (New Brunswick, New Jersey), 20 March 1974: headline '17-year-old jurist judged illegal official' — AP wire reprint reporting the Attorney General's opinion on Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • Fort Worth Star Telegram Fort Worth, Texas 20 March 1974
    Fort Worth Star Telegram (Fort Worth, Texas), 20 March 1974: headline 'His Honor Only 17 — JP: Juvenile of the Peace?' — sensationalized wire service headline about Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Miami Herald Miami, Florida 21 March 1974
    The Miami Herald (Miami, Florida), 21 March 1974: headline 'JP at 17 Is Ruled Ineligible — Says He'll Try To Keep Office' — wire service coverage of the Attorney General's ruling on Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Kokomo Tribune Kokomo, Indiana 21 March 1974
    The Kokomo Tribune (Kokomo, Indiana), 21 March 1974: headline 'Young justice of the peace vows to fight ruling' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's determination to challenge the Attorney General's opinion on his appointment
  • The Vincennes Sun Commercial Vincennes, Indiana 21 March 1974
    The Vincennes Sun Commercial (Vincennes, Indiana), 21 March 1974: headline 'Public Official, 17, Discovers Trouble' — wire service coverage of the controversy surrounding Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Billings Gazette Billings, Montana 21 March 1974
    The Billings Gazette (Billings, Montana), 21 March 1974: headline 'Problems for his honor' — wire service coverage of the legal controversy surrounding 17-year-old Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • Des Moines Tribune Des Moines, Iowa 21 March 1974
    Des Moines Tribune (Des Moines, Iowa), 21 March 1974: headline 'Worried Justice' — wire service coverage of the legal challenge to 17-year-old Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The Lowell Sun Lowell, Massachusetts 20 March 1974
    The Lowell Sun (Lowell, Massachusetts), 20 March 1974: headline 'Young justice of the peace worries about own legality' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's uncertain legal standing as the nation's youngest Justice of the Peace
  • The Missoulian Missoula, Montana 21 March 1974
    The Missoulian (Missoula, Montana), 21 March 1974: headline 'Young JP Frets Over Job' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's concerns over the Attorney General's challenge to his appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • The News Journal Wilmington, Delaware 20 March 1974
    The News Journal (Wilmington, Delaware), 20 March 1974: headline 'Justice blind, why not young? Indiana's Marc L. Griffin wonders — 17-Year-Old J.P. Challenged, And He Has Big Worry' — wire service coverage of the legal challenge to Marc Griffin's appointment as Justice of the Peace
  • Dayton Daily News Dayton, Ohio 20 March 1974
    Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio), 20 March 1974: headline 'JP, 17, Worries About 1st Act' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's concern over the legality of his first official act as Justice of the Peace
  • Wilkes-Barre Times Leader Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 20 March 1974
    Wilkes-Barre Times Leader (Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania), 20 March 1974: headline 'Official Act Worries Young Peace Justice' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's concern over the validity of his official acts as the nation's youngest Justice of the Peace
  • Lincoln Journal Star Lincoln, Nebraska 20 March 1974
    Lincoln Journal Star (Lincoln, Nebraska), 20 March 1974: headline 'Young JP Worried Marriage Not Valid' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's concern that a marriage he performed as Justice of the Peace may not be legally valid
  • The Los Angeles Times Los Angeles, California 20 March 1974
    The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California), 20 March 1974: headline 'Wedding On His Conscience — Justice of Peace, 17, Fears He's Not Legal' — wire service coverage of Marc Griffin's concern over the legality of a marriage he performed as the nation's youngest Justice of the Peace
  • Press and Sun Bulletin Binghamton, New York 20 March 1974
    Press and Sun Bulletin (Binghamton, New York), 20 March 1974: headline 'Justice, 17, Hopes He's Wedded to Job' — wire service coverage playing on Marc Griffin's performance of a marriage ceremony while his own legal standing as Justice of the Peace was in question
  • The Capital Times Madison, Wisconsin 20 March 1974
    The Capital Times (Madison, Wisconsin), 20 March 1974: headline 'Young JP Challenged — Is Marriage for Real?' — wire service coverage questioning the validity of a marriage performed by 17-year-old Marc Griffin as Justice of the Peace
  • The Los Angeles Times Los Angeles, California 21 March 1974
    The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California), 21 March 1974: Newsmakers column headline 'Bride Was Old Enough — His Honor Wasn't' — wire service coverage of the irony that the bride Marc Griffin married was of legal age while the Justice of the Peace who performed the ceremony was not

Meeting with Governor Bowen

First-Person Account

After the Attorney General’s opinion came out, I went to the Governor’s office at the State House to talk it over. The Governor was not available that day, so I set an appointment for later.

When I came back for the meeting, I told the staff who I was — the teenage judge the Governor had just appointed. Within minutes, one of them called me “Judge Griffin” and said the Governor was ready. That was the first time anyone formally used the title, and it meant a lot to me.

I told Governor Otis Bowen I was worried about the Attorney General’s opinion and what it meant for my authority. I thanked him and the county commissioners for the trust they had placed in me. I also pointed to the heavy press coverage and said I did not want my position to cause political trouble for the Governor or the commissioners.

I stressed the importance of the office of Justice of the Peace and my duty to protect it. For those reasons, I offered my resignation. I made the offer out of respect for the commissioners and the Governor, and to preserve the dignity of the office.

It was no secret that Governor Bowen and Attorney General Theodore Sendak did not get along. Sendak had long been rumored to want the Governor’s seat, and he was the one who wrote the opinion. Bowen asked me whether I thought the opinion was correct. I said an opinion is not legally binding, and I believed this one was wrong. I also noted that it did not come from a court, so it did not have the force of law.

Bowen then asked if I was ready to defend my position in court. I said I was. He refused my resignation and would not let me give up the commission. He told me to go back to Johnson County and get my courtroom ready for cases.

I briefed the County Commissioners on the meeting. Then I worked with the township trustee to set up my office and courtroom.

Post-meeting press coverage:

  • The Daily Journal 25 March 1974
    The Daily Journal, 25 March 1974: 'Commissioners confirm decision — County attorney defends Griffin' — County Attorney James B. Young contends Marc L. Griffin, 17, is legally entitled to hold office as Justice of the Peace; Griffin believes Sendak's opinion was an effort to block young people from political office; Commissioner McCarty praises Griffin as impressive; Griffin announces he will resume accepting cases
  • The Indianapolis Star 24 March 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, 24 March 1974: '17-Year-Old Set To Open J.P. Office' — Marc Griffin announces he will open his office at 9000 South Meridian Street for docket listings and hold his first court sessions at 9 a.m. Saturday, approved by Johnson County commissioners and County Attorney James Young
  • The Daily Journal 9 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 9 April 1974: 'Griffin opened his courtroom Saturday' — Marc Griffin, 17-year-old Justice of the Peace, opens his courtroom in White River Township, handles two cases on his first day, appoints Richard Meyer as special constable, and announces Saturday sessions at 9000 South Meridian Street

V. Opponent’s Lawsuit Against the Election Board (April–May 1974)

  • The Daily Journal 18 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 18 April 1974: 'Questions candidacy of 17-year-old opponent — Condit files suit against county election board' — by Terry Anderson, Journal Staff Writer; Robert W. Condit, GOP opponent for Justice of the Peace, sues the Johnson County Election Board for registering Marc L. Griffin as a candidate in the May primary, citing Attorney General Sendak's opinion; the precedent-setting suit challenges the right of a registered voter to seek state office before age 21
  • The Indianapolis News 19 April 1974
    The Indianapolis News, Friday, April 19, 1974: 'Preprimary Battle — Candidacy Of 17-Year-Old J.P. Challenged In Suit' — Special to The News from Franklin, Indiana; Robert W. Condit, 44, files suit in Johnson Superior Court challenging Marc L. Griffin's eligibility as a political candidate for the May 7 Republican primary; Griffin believed to be the youngest appointed official in Indiana history
  • The Daily Journal 19 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 19 April 1974: 'Okay change of venue in suit against young JP' — Johnson Superior Court grants change of venue in the Condit suit against the Election Board; County Attorney James B. Young defends Griffin's eligibility, noting no age requirement is listed in state law for candidates; five surrounding counties listed as possible trial sites
  • The Daily Journal 29 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 29 April 1974: 'Election board case venued to Shelby county' — attorneys agree to Shelby County Circuit Court as the setting for the Condit suit; County Attorney James B. Young found no law placing an age requirement on the office; Attorney Thomas Strodtman notes the case will set a precedent for elections statewide; suit will likely not be resolved before the May primary
  • The Indianapolis News 30 April 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 30 April 1974: 'Suit On JP's Age Moved To Shelby' — Special to The News from Shelbyville, Indiana; attorneys agree to move venue from Johnson Circuit Court to Shelby Circuit Court in the suit over 17-year-old Marc Griffin's eligibility to seek public office; Condit cites Attorney General Sendak's opinion; Griffin is not a party to the suit
  • The Daily Journal 29 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 1974: Special Journal Report — 'Starke county has minimum age court case, too' — Attorney General Sendak expected to respond to a Starke County complaint challenging his opinion on minimum age requirements; the case has direct bearing on the Condit suit against the Johnson County Election Board and Marc L. Griffin; after the election Griffin soundly defeated Condit; Griffin's lawyer George W. Martz notes the case could last beyond the November election
  • The Indianapolis News 6 May 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 6 May 1974: 'Postprimary Ruling In Teen JP's Case' — Special to The News from Shelbyville; no ruling expected before tomorrow's primary; Shelby Circuit Judge Robert Ellison schedules pretrial conference for June 7; photos of Griffin and Condit side by side; Griffin says he has been interested in politics since age 10 and is trying to prove to young people there is a reason to vote
  • The Daily Journal 7 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 7 May 1974: Special Journal Report from Shelbyville — 'Court will not take action on Griffin suit until after primary' — Shelby County Circuit Court will not act on the Condit suit challenging Marc L. Griffin's candidacy until after Tuesday's primary election; Judge Robert Ellison schedules pretrial conference for June 7; County Attorney Young disagrees with Sendak opinion, noting law books only require a justice of the peace be a registered voter and township resident

VI. Primary Election (March–May 1974)

  • The Daily Journal 1 March 1974
    The Daily Journal, 1 March 1974: 'Candidates file for May primary' — Marc L. Griffin, the 17-year-old Greenwood youth recently appointed White River Township Justice of the Peace by the Johnson County Commissioners, files for renomination on the Republican ticket; Griffin lives at 4070 Sunshine Way and is serving a term expiring December 31
  • The Daily Journal 23 March 1974
    The Daily Journal, 23 March 1974: Johnson County township officials directory listing County Council members and all township officers — under White River Township shows Trustee Robert H. Kelso, Advisory Board members Maurice W. Kitchen, Arthur L. Wilder, and Justice of the Peace Marc L. Griffin; directory also lists officers for Blue River, Clark, Franklin, Hensley, Needham, Nineveh, Pleasant, and Union townships
  • The Daily Journal 25 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, Thursday, April 25, 1974: 'Candidates' Night observed by GOP in Greenwood' — Marc Griffin, Justice of the Peace for White River Township, gives a short speech to the Greater Greenwood Republican Women's Club at the Greenwood Community House alongside other candidates for the May primary
  • The Daily Journal 27 April 1974
    The Daily Journal, 27 April 1974 (continued from front page): 'Candidates' — describes the controversial race for White River Township Justice of the Peace between 17-year-old incumbent Marc Griffin, who will be 18 on May 25, and industrial executive Robert W. Condit
  • The Daily Journal 3 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 3 May 1974: 'GOP primary highlighted by White River JP race' by Al Stilley — photo shows incumbent Marc L. Griffin, left, who will be 18 on May 25, and challenger Robert Condit; article details the nationally publicized two-way Republican primary for White River Township Justice of the PeaceThe Daily Journal, 3 May 1974 (continued from front page): 'GOP primary' — reports that court proceedings on behalf of Condit will probably occur following the primary election, with the case venued into Shelby County
  • The Indianapolis Star 3 May 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, 3 May 1974: Marc L. Griffin, 17, of Greenwood competes for the Republican White River Township Justice of the Peace nomination against Robert W. Condit, 44; observers note Condit is not impressing the party and Griffin is expected to win
  • The Daily Journal 4 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 4 May 1974: 'GOP primary races' — ballot listing for Johnson County Republican primary showing Marc L. Griffin as candidate for Justice of the Peace, White River Township, alongside other local and county races
  • The Daily Journal 6 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 6 May 1974: Campaign advertisement for Robert W. Condit — 'Nominate Robert W. Condit, Your Republican Candidate for White River Township Justice of the Peace — Vote for a Man with Experience'
  • Handbill May 1974
    Campaign handbill, May 1974: 'Nominate Robert W. Condit, Your Republican Candidate for White River Township Justice of the Peace — Vote for a Man with Experience' — printed handbill with portrait photo of Condit
  • The Daily Journal 8 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 8 May 1974: 'Youthful JP wins primary' — 17-year-old Marc Griffin defeats Robert W. Condit 407 to 315 (56.3% to 43.6%) in the Republican primary for White River Township Justice of the Peace, winning all four precincts; Griffin calls it 'an honest vote and a clear indication the public wants me,' with the Condit lawsuit venued to Shelby County awaiting a June 7 hearingThe Daily Journal, 8 May 1974 (continued from front page): 'Young JP' — Griffin says young people in politics would strengthen the Republican party, noting many have defected to the Democratic party feeling alienated; Democrats have not yet slated an opponent to Griffin in the November election
  • The Indianapolis News 8 May 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 8 May 1974: 'Youngest in History? Just Great, 17-Year-Old J.P. Says After Victory' — Marc L. Griffin, believed to be the youngest appointed official in Indiana history, defeats Robert W. Condit 407–315 capturing all four White River Township precincts; Griffin calls his victory 'a real birthday present' and reports handling about 35 cases every Saturday and performing two marriages since taking office in February

VII. Opponent’s Lawsuit Expanded (May–August 1974)

  • The Daily Journal 11 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 11 May 1974: 'JP candidate seeks legal battle' by Terry Anderson — defeated opponent Robert W. Condit vows to continue his court battle against the Johnson County election board after losing to 17-year-old Marc Griffin 407–315; Condit says 'Why should I drop it? I'm totally in the right, I'll win'; suit venued to Shelby Circuit Court with pre-trial expected nextThe Daily Journal, 11 May 1974 (continued from front page): 'Battle' — Griffin says his election victory is 'a clear indication that the voters think I am qualified to serve'; Condit bases his suit on Attorney General Theodore Sendak's official opinion, issued at Governor Bowen's request, that laws did not allow anyone under 21 to hold elective office; Sendak's opinion was issued five days before the election board approved Griffin's filing
  • The Daily Journal 23 May 1974
    The Daily Journal, 23 May 1974: 'Condit claims Griffin illegal JP candidate' — Robert W. Condit amends his suit to charge Griffin is an illegal candidate for White River Township Justice of the Peace because he is under 21; Condit requests Judge Robert Ellison of Shelby Circuit Court be removed and asks the court to appoint him as the only eligible candidate; Griffin, represented by attorney George Martz, responds 'the governor knew how old I am when he appointed me'
  • The Indianapolis Star 24 May 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, 24 May 1974: 'Teen Named Defendant In Suit Challenging His Right To Be J.P.' — Marc L. Griffin, 17, has been named a defendant in a suit by Robert W. Condit challenging his right to be White River Township Justice of the Peace in Johnson County; Condit requests the court enjoin Griffin from continuing in office and asks for a decision on whether anyone under 21 can legally hold public office; Attorney General Sendak's opinion said a 17-year-old could not hold public office but the Johnson County Commissioners said the opinion is not binding as law
  • The Indianapolis News 24 May 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 24 May 1974: 'Ruling on Age Asked — Young JP Added To Loser's Lawsuit' — with photos of both Griffin and Condit; Robert W. Condit amends his suit in Shelby Circuit Court to add Marc L. Griffin as a defendant, asking the court to enjoin the 17-year-old from continuing as Justice of the Peace and to appoint Condit as the 'only eligible candidate'; Griffin, who will be 18 tomorrow, calls the suit 'just some political move against me and it failed'
  • The Daily Journal 5 June 1974
    The Daily Journal, 5 June 1974: 'Pre-trial hearing date set for JP case in Shelbyville' — the pre-trial hearing in Condit v. Johnson County Election Board and Marc L. Griffin has been postponed to June 27 in Shelby Circuit Court; Judge John W. Goddard named special judge after Condit asked Judge Robert Ellison be removed; Griffin described as the youngest appointed official in Indiana history
  • The Indianapolis News 5 June 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 5 June 1974: 'JP Trial Parley Scheduled' — Special Judge John W. Goddard of Decatur Circuit Court has scheduled a pretrial conference for June 27 on the suit challenging the right of an 18-year-old to serve as Justice of the Peace; case transferred from Johnson County to Shelby Circuit Court; suit filed by Robert W. Condit challenges Griffin's right to serve as White River Township JP
  • The Daily Journal 27 June 1974
    The Daily Journal, 27 June 1974: 'JP hearing set today' — a pre-trial hearing in the suit filed by Robert W. Condit against Marc L. Griffin and the Johnson County Election Board was scheduled in Shelby County Circuit Court before Judge W. Goddard; lawyers for the election board and Griffin are both expected to file a motion to dismiss on the grounds that no case exists against the defendants
  • The Daily Journal 28 June 1974
    The Daily Journal, 28 June 1974: 'Judge promises ruling by October 1 on suit' — Special Judge John W. Goddard promises a decision before October 1 in the suit filed by Robert W. Condit against Marc L. Griffin and the Johnson County Election Board; Condit given two weeks to answer a motion to dismiss; defense attorneys argue no case can be presented to show the defendants violated the law; Griffin defeated Condit in the May primary winning all four precincts by 56.3% to 43.6%
  • The Indianapolis Star 7 August 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, Wednesday, August 7, 1974: 'Hearing Friday On Suit Challenging Teen J.P.' — a hearing on motions to dismiss the suit against 18-year-old Marc L. Griffin is scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday in Shelby Circuit Court; Judge George B. Davis of Hancock Circuit Court named new special judge after Judge Goddard disqualified himself; defense attorneys filed joint motions for dismissal and summary judgment, contending Griffin was legally appointed and the law does not give age as a qualification for holding office
  • The Indianapolis News 7 August 1974
    The Indianapolis News, 7 August 1974: 'Older Challenger — 18-Year-Old J.P. Acts To Save Job' — with photos of both Griffin and Condit; hearing on motions to dismiss Condit's suit scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday in Shelby Circuit Court before Special Judge George B. Davis of Hancock Circuit Court, named after Judge Goddard disqualified himself; attorneys for Griffin and the election board have filed joint motions for dismissal and summary judgment
  • The Daily Journal 8 August 1974
    The Daily Journal, 8 August 1974: 'JP hearing slated today' — the precedent-setting case of Condit v. Johnson County Election Board and Marc L. Griffin could soon reach its conclusion with a hearing on motions to dismiss at 3 p.m. in Shelby Circuit Court before Special Judge George B. Davis; the case has attracted statewide interest and may answer whether 18-year-olds can hold elected office in Indiana; defense contends the law does not give age as a qualification for holding office
  • The Daily Journal 9 August 1974
    The Daily Journal, Friday, August 9, 1974: 'Special judge hears arguments in controversial area JP case' by Terry Anderson — Special Judge George B. Davis heard arguments in the Shelby County Courthouse from seven attorneys and one reporter; Judge Davis said he would rule 'only on the legal basis of the case'; defense attorney George Martz cited a Minnesota precedent; election board attorney James Young said 'the constitution and statutes are silent about the age of a justice of the peace'; both sides agreed Griffin's official acts were totally legal
  • The Daily Journal 10 August 1974
    The Daily Journal, 10 August 1974: 'Ruling Expected On Candidacy Of Teen J.P. Soon' — Special Judge George B. Davis of Hancock Circuit Court says he plans to rule on the motions to dismiss 'by midweek' after attorneys for the Johnson County Election Board and Marc L. Griffin presented their cases in Shelbyville; Robert W. Condit, 44, filed suit challenging Griffin's right to be a candidate for the November 5 election

VIII. Court Decision on Eligibility to Serve (August 1974)

  • Kokomo Tribune 14 August 1974
    Kokomo Tribune, 14 August 1974: 'Boy, 18, eligible to be justice of peace, court rules' — headline announcing the court's landmark decision that 18-year-old Marc L. Griffin is legally eligible to serve as Justice of the Peace
  • Vidette Messenger of Porter County 14 August 1974
    Vidette Messenger of Porter County, 14 August 1974: 'Teen Okayed As Candidate' — headline reporting the court ruling that cleared 18-year-old Marc L. Griffin to remain a candidate for Justice of the Peace
  • The Noblesville Ledger 14 August 1974
    The Noblesville Ledger, 14 August 1974: 'Candidate, 18, Ruled Eligible' — headline reporting the court decision that 18-year-old Marc L. Griffin is eligible to be a candidate for Justice of the Peace
  • Muncie Evening Press 14 August 1974
    Muncie Evening Press, 14 August 1974: 'Teen Ruled Eligible To Be JP Candidate' — headline reporting the court ruling that cleared Marc L. Griffin to remain on the ballot as a candidate for Justice of the Peace
  • The Indianapolis Star 14 August 1974
    The Indianapolis Star, 14 August 1974: 'Teen J.P. Wins Fight To Be Put On Ballot' — Hancock Circuit Court Judge George B. Davis, acting as special judge, granted a summary judgment declaring Marc L. Griffin eligible to be a candidate for White River Justice of the Peace in the November election; Robert W. Condit, 44, of Greenwood had filed suit challenging Griffin's right because he is not 21
  • The Daily Journal 14 August 1974
    The Daily Journal, 14 August 1974: 'Ruling by judge favors young JP' — Special Judge George B. Davis rules that Marc L. Griffin's name will appear on the November ballot; Davis ruled 'persons 18 years old are now electors in Indiana and are eligible for the office of Justice of the Peace,' citing the 26th Amendment; the judge upheld Griffin's declaration of candidacy, voter qualification, and primary victory over ConditThe Daily Journal, 14 August 1974 (continued from front page): 'Ruling' — Judge Davis stated 'No place in the Indiana Constitution is there any specific requirement that Justices of the Peace must be 21 years old'; the decision is described as a precedent-setting one, particularly for setting an age limit to hold office as a Justice of the Peace

IX. General Election (September–November 1974)

  • The Daily Journal 4 September 1974
    The Daily Journal, 4 September 1974: 'County election slate completed' — Marc L. Griffin, 4070 Sunshine Way, Greenwood, the youngest person ever appointed a Justice of the Peace in Indiana, will be opposed in the November election by Democrat Michael A. Hunter in the race for White River Township Justice of the Peace
  • The Daily Journal 9 September 1974
    The Daily Journal, 9 September 1974: 'Township races' — ballot listing for the November general election showing White River Twp. Justice of the Peace: Marc L. Griffin, R-Greenwood, vs. Michael A. Hunter, D-Greenwood
  • The Daily Journal 18 October 1974
    The Daily Journal, 18 October 1974: Two teen-agers will be on the ballot for Justice of the Peace in White River Township — Marc L. Griffin, 18-year-old Republican appointed JP in February by the Johnson County Commissioners, faces Democrat Michael A. Hunter, 19, a precinct committeeman employed with Dollco Electric Company in Indianapolis
  • The Daily Journal 25 October 1974
    The Daily Journal, 25 October 1974: 'Candidates in Johnson county' — full list of contested races in the general election including White River JP: Marc L. Griffin-R vs. Michael A. Hunter-D, alongside races for U.S. Senator (Lugar vs. Bayh), Secretary of State, and other county and township offices
  • The Daily Journal 2 November 1974
    The Daily Journal, 2 November 1974: 'Candidates in Johnson county' — listing of all contested races in Tuesday's general election including U.S. Senator (Lugar-R, Bayh-D), Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, Court Clerk, Sixth District Representative, County Prosecutor, township trustees and boards; White River JP shows Marc L. Griffin-R vs. Michael A. Hunter-D
  • The Daily Journal Republican Slate 2 November 1974
    The Daily Journal, 2 November 1974: Republican Slate — full listing of Johnson County Republican candidates for the general election including County Council, township trustees, advisory boards, and township offices; White River Township shows Justice of Peace: Marc L. Griffin
  • The Daily Journal 6 November 1974
    The Daily Journal, 6 November 1974: In the precedent-setting contest for White River Township Justice of the Peace, 18-year-old Republican incumbent Marc Griffin defeated his 19-year-old opponent Michael Hunter by a slim 22-vote margin; the victory added to Griffin's set of firsts — youngest appointed official in Indiana history, youngest to win a primary contest, and now the youngest elected official in the history of the state
  • The Daily Journal 6 November 1974
    The Daily Journal, 6 November 1974: 'Here's total county vote' — final tally of all Johnson County races in the general election including White River Twp. Justice of the Peace showing Marc L. Griffin's victory; candidates who carried the county are indicated with asterisks

X. The History of the White River Township J.P. Court

The Last Justice of the Peace in White River Township

First-Person Account

In high school, I spent my spare time studying Indiana law. I graduated early in January 1974, which gave me a lot of free time. During that period, I grew interested in the office of Justice of the Peace for White River Township — a role I had found in my reading.

Discovering a Forgotten Office

First-Person Account

When I asked county officials and local politicians about the job, they got the facts wrong. They said White River Township had never had a Justice of the Peace and asked how I could fill a vacancy for an office that, in their view, never existed.

I corrected them. The law provided for the office. It had just sat empty for 50 years. That was common in some Indiana townships going back to the early 20th century.

Historical Background

Historical Context

Old state statutes show that two Justices of the Peace were elected in White River Township every four years in the 19th century. Records and newspaper accounts show Archibald Glenn was the first — elected in the first county election in 1823, the same year Johnson County was formed. Abraham Lowe was the other. Back then, the term was five years.

Others served after them, including Matthew McCollum, John Bennett and Daniel Dorrell. Sixty years before my election, the last known Justice of the Peace in the township may have been Alfred Boaz, who resigned in 1919.

Filling the Vacancy and the Office’s Final Years

First-Person Account

Newspaper accounts suggest the office sat vacant from the late 1910s until my appointment in 1974 to fill it. The term I filled ended December 31, 1974, so I had to run for election that year to keep serving.

I was the last Justice of the Peace for White River Township. The Indiana General Assembly ended the office statewide at the end of 1975 — just one year into the four-year term I had won at the polls.

Post-term press coverage:

  • The Daily Journal 31 December 1974
    The Daily Journal, 31 December 1974: 'New Year's Eve wedding planned at courthouse' — Philip Amoruso of Chicago and Jean Motsinger of Indianapolis will be married by White River Township Justice of the Peace Marc L. Griffin at precisely midnight on the Johnson County Courthouse steps, making it the first marriage of the year
  • The Daily Journal 2 January 1975
    The Daily Journal, 2 January 1975: 'First wedding of the year' — photo shows White River Township Justice of the Peace Marc L. Griffin, far left, officiating the midnight wedding of Philip Amoruso of Chicago and Jean Motsinger of Indianapolis on the steps of the Johnson County Courthouse, making them the first wedded couple of 1975 in the county and possibly the state
  • The Daily Journal 5 May 1975
    The Daily Journal, 5 May 1975: 'JP Court report from White River township' — list of persons recently appearing before Judge Marc L. Griffin in the White River Township Justice of the Peace Court, including speeding and moving violation cases with fines and court costs

Artifacts of Office

Justices of the Peace had the power of arrest.

Artifacts from the White River Township Justice of the Peace Court: Marc L. Griffin's official business card reading 'Marc L. Griffin, Justice of the Peace, White River Township, State Road 37, Pleasant Center, Greenwood, Indiana 46142, Phone (317) 888-7700' alongside his Johnson County Justice of the Peace badge bearing the seal of the State of Indiana

A certificate like this was required by law to be attached to any of my arrest warrants that were to be served on a person outside of Johnson County.

Certificate of Justice of the Peace, State of Indiana, County of Johnson: Frances Melton, Clerk of the Johnson Circuit Court, certifies that Marc L. Griffin is a duly commissioned, qualified, and acting Justice of the Peace for the Township of White River, County of Johnson; term expires 31 December 1978; signed and sealed at Franklin, Indiana, 15 April 1975

1908 criminal case tried to a jury in the White River Township J.P. Court.

Rockport Democrat, May 1, 1908, page 3: 'Jurymen Failed to Agree' — Franklin, Indiana, April 28: the jurymen failed to agree in the case of M. J. Fleming, principal of the Greenwood high school, charged with whipping Dale Perry, the fourteen-year-old son of Robert Perry, with unnecessary severity; the case was tried before a Justice of the Peace in White River Township on a change of venue; jury stood nine for acquittal and three for conviction and were discharged

XI. Epilogue

  • Judge Marc L. Griffin — His path through law and public service shaped the rest of his life. After college and law school, he built a successful legal career and opened his practice in Greenwood, Indiana — just down the road from the courtroom where he had once served. Over time, his views shifted and he became a Democrat. Outside the law, he developed a lifelong passion for genealogy. His research turned up many direct ancestors who had served as Justices of the Peace in southern Indiana in the early 1800s — a long family tradition of civic duty.
  • Governor Otis Bowen — Governor Otis Bowen was re-elected for a second term in 1976, making him the first Governor to serve for eight consecutive years in Indiana since 1851. His campaign slogan, featured in huge letters on billboards, was “Otis Bowen. He Hears You.” In 1985, he was appointed by President Reagan as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
  • Attorney General Ted Sendak — Attorney General Ted Sendak was re-elected Attorney General in 1976 and served until 1981.
  • County Attorney James B. Young — County Attorney James B. Young was appointed the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana in 1975. He was later appointed by Governor Bowen to the Indiana Court of Appeals in 1978 and retained by the electorate in 1980.
  • Candidate Robert W. Condit — Condit kept losing Republican primaries. After his 1974 loss, he ran for precinct committeeman in White River Township in 1976 and lost. Four years later, he ran for a Johnson County council seat in 1980 and lost. He had also run for Perry Township Trustee in Marion County in 1966 and for city council in Beech Grove in 1967 — both losses in Republican primaries.
  • Candidate Michael A. Hunter — Hunter only got to see the bench by standing in front of it. The year after his failed bid for J.P., he got a speeding ticket in Franklin City Court and paid the fine. In 1981, at age 25, Greenwood police arrested him on charges of public intoxication and public indecency. He was released on a $125 cash bond. He got another speeding ticket in 1986 in New Whiteland Town Court and paid the fine.
  • Dale Perry — High school student Dale Perry, who was the subject of a jury trial held in 1908 in the White River Township J.P. Court, went on to become a lawyer. It is not known if his court case inspired him to pursue a career as a lawyer.