Understanding Probate Court Conduct Violations: Affect on Litigants and Trusts

Ever wondered what happens when the legal system itself falls short? Let’s dive into a real-world example that involved 862 litigants and a Probate Court in Indiana. Judge Loris Zappia of the newly-elected Probate Court announced a significant development involving these litigants, whose cases were overseen by former Magistrate Aric Rutkowski from June 2021 to December 2022. Rutkowski violated the Indiana Code of Judicial Conduct by engaging in a relationship with a deputy prosecutor handling their cases. This led to his resignation in May 2025.

The court issued notices to the affected litigants advising them of potential grounds to seek further review of their cases. The violation of the conduct code may have impacted their rights, hence, the court recommends considering a review. While litigants can do this independently, seeking legal counsel is recommended for a proper understanding of the implications.

This incident led to a proactive approach from Judge Zappia, who took office in January 2025, aiming to restore public trust in the Probate Court. She mandated the issuance of notices to the affected litigants, ensuring transparency and promoting accountability within the judicial system.

If you’re one of the litigants affected in St. Joseph County, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. Understanding your options and the potential impacts on your estate or trust is essential. You can get further assistance at the Indiana Free Legal Answers website or the St. Joseph Probate Court directly.

Source: www.953mnc.com