The Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission sent its letter to Gov. Mitch Daniels Wednesday explaining the qualifications of justice finalists Hamilton Superior Judge Steven Nation, Tippecanoe Superior Judge Loretta Rush, and Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP partner Geoffrey Slaughter.

The commission selected the trio as finalists Aug. 8, and statute requires that it send a written evaluation of each nominee to the governor. Upon receipt, Daniels will have 60 days to make his appointment.

On Nation, the letter says: “With thirty-seven years of diverse legal practice – as a civil trial attorney, a prosecutor, and trial judge – Steven Nation has a familiarity with all facets of the Indiana judicial system and is recognized as a wise, compassionate, and fair jurist. … His commitment to public service is demonstrated not only from his past activities but also from his unwavering pledge to dedicate the remaining thirteen years of his career to the Indiana Supreme Court, if selected.”

On Rush: “As a jurist, administrator, and community leader, Loretta Rush has developed an impressive reputation for being one of the judiciary’s most dedicated leaders and, as one community leader described, ‘[A] visionary with incredible foresight.’ Knowledgeable observers routinely spoke of her courage, commitment, patience, and tireless energy in approaching some of the court’s most intricate and formidable problems.”

On Slaughter: “Highly regarded for his intellect, penetrating legal analysis, wisdom, and judgment, he is often sought out by his peers for consultation and referral of clients on sensitive legal matters. As one prominent practitioner wrote, ‘Brilliant is not a term I use lightly, but it applies here … He is known throughout this state as a man of integrity and character, and holds a place of respect in the legal community that few others hold.”