Meet Rural Justice Initiative Participant Braden Merriman
07/30/2025
IU McKinney 2L Braden Merriman is from Lake Village in Newton County, Indiana. He is spending the summer there working with two trial court judges.
What brought you to IU McKinney? What year are you in law school?
I chose to attend M
cKinney because of the school’s reputation within the legal community and the opportunities for real-world experience McKinney offers such as the Rural Justice Initiative. McKinney’s location was also appealing as it gave me an opportunity to stay in Indiana and relatively close to home as I plan to practice in Indiana upon graduation.
What made you want to become a lawyer?
What motivated me to become a lawyer is my desire to make a meaningful impact and to help individuals. I believe a career in law will provide me with the tools that are necessary to help others and contribute meaningfully within the community.
What made you want to take part in the Rural Justice Initiative? What are you hoping to gain from the experience?
I wanted to take part in the Rural Justice Initiative because it gave me an opportunity to return to the county where I grew up and to make a difference within the community. Being able to make a real impact in an underserved community was particularly appealing. Through this experience, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the justice system, especially within a rural community, continue to build practical skills, and build relationships with the legal professionals in the community.
What are you doing as part of RJI?
During my externship, I have had the privilege of working under two Indiana trial court judges. I have observed courtroom procedures, including motion practice and various hearings and trials. I have also performed legal research and drafted memoranda regarding both civil and criminal matters.
I am currently undecided on a specific practice area. The Rural Justice Initiative has exposed me to multiple different practice areas, and I am keeping an open mind as I continue to gain more experience.
In the photo from left are Newton County Circuit Court Judge Jeryl F. Leach, Braden Merriman, and Newton County Superior Court Judge Patrick K. Ryan.
