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The Indiana Supreme Court has named Robert Rath, '06 as the first-ever Director of Appellate Court Technology. Rath is uniquely qualified for the position with extensive information technology experience, a law degree, and bilingual skills. Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard recently named Rath to the position and said, “Having Robert join our Court family allows us to gain an experienced manager with an incredibly diverse background.”

As Director of Appellate Court Technology, Rath will play a crucial role in developing a stronger vision for how the Court utilizes technology. Rath will review Court processes and identify how changing technology may improve Court functions and services. “Technology can play a critical role in enhancing business performance. Whether a project aims to improve productivity or to enable new business processes, it is very important to have an understanding of what that business is trying to accomplish. As an attorney, I have a profound appreciation for the Court’s mission. Our team’s charter goes far beyond electronic filing or on-line collaboration —it is about our system of justice. I look forward to playing a role in improving Indiana appellate court technology.” The National Center for State Courts (NCSC) recommended Indiana hire an Appellate Court IT Director. A consultant from the NCSC helped evaluate candidates for the position. The Supreme Court also formed a selection committee made up of Directors from the Division of State Court Administration, Court of Appeals, Indiana Judicial Center, and Clerk of the Appellate Courts. The decision to hire Rath allows Indiana to dedicate one person to developing a strategy for technology improvements. Rath comes to the Supreme Court from private practice. Prior to having his own law office and consulting practice, Rath served as an information technology manager for Thomson, Inc., and Sara Lee Corporation. Fluent in Spanish, Rath enjoyed the opportunity to be immersed in another culture and spent a number of years working in Mexico. A 2006 graduate of the law school, Rath earned his business degrees from Indiana University Kelley School of Business and Indiana Wesleyan University. He currently lives in the Indianapolis area with his wife and three children.