Justin McAdam, a leader in the Indiana Office of Management and Budget, will be ascending to the position of judge of the Indiana Tax Court. The appointment, announced by Gov. Eric Holcomb in July, signals a pivotal transition from Judge Martha Wentworth’s 12-year tenure to an exciting new chapter.
Since its inception in 1986, the Indiana Tax Court has seen only two judges at its helm, imparting a unique weight to this transition. The Tax Court plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and fairness of our state’s tax system, directly impacting businesses and individuals alike. It is, therefore, paramount to have a judge who combines legal acumen, integrity and dedication in this role.
In his announcement speech, Gov. Holcomb praised McAdam’s accomplishments, emphasizing his aptitude for dealing with complex issues. “What stands out to me is not just your intelligence and experience, but also your calming approach to our entire administration, legislators and constituencies all across the state,” Holcomb said.
He further lauded McAdam’s traits of patience, discernment, integrity and sound judicial temperament.
McAdam, a Harvard Law School alum, has built an impressive career trajectory leading up to this appointment. His experience includes serving on numerous boards, such as the Indiana Board of Depositors, Indiana Next Level Fund Board and Indiana Public Retirement System, demonstrating his commitment to serving Hoosiers at multiple levels.
McAdam expressed humility and gratitude in the face of this new challenge. “When it’s all said and done, I hope to leave a legacy as a judge who was fair and impartial, whose decisions were clear and well-reasoned, and who left the Tax Court better than I found it,” he said.
Reflecting on the Tax Court’s history and his impending role, McAdam paid tribute to his predecessors, especially outgoing Judge Wentworth, whose expertise in the field of taxes is unparalleled. “Your contributions are not only appreciated but are a significant part of what makes our state’s reputation so welcoming for business,” McAdam commended, emphasizing the importance of the Tax Court to Indiana’s judiciary and its taxpaying citizens.
In her remarks, Chief Justice Loretta Rush hailed Judge Wentworth’s exemplary work, stating that she leaves the Tax Court with an ‘A’ rating, one of the highest-rated states for tax litigation in the country. She also expressed confidence in McAdam, noting that “People sought us out to tell us about your excellence and how they believe in you.”
The continuity of the Tax Court’s work is of utmost importance to Hoosier taxpayers. With McAdam’s appointment, we look forward to a seamless transition and continued fairness and efficiency in the interpretation and application of Indiana’s tax laws. His commitment to the values of honesty, integrity, humility, empathy, creativity and courage bodes well for his tenure.
The Chamber extends our congratulations to Judge McAdam on this significant appointment and thank Judge Wentworth for her dedicated years of service. We are confident that Judge McAdam’s term will continue to uphold the Tax Court’s critical role in our state’s judiciary, ensuring that Indiana remains a favorable environment for business and fostering fairness for all taxpayers.
