East Central Reporter

After attending numerous county board meetings across the state, a pattern has emerged regarding the presence of the County State’s Attorney at these gatherings. The importance of obtaining well-researched legal advice rather than relying on immediate responses during meetings is emphasized. It is recommended that county boards establish specific questions for their legal counsel and request written answers. Written opinions are generally more thoroughly considered, as attorneys are cautious about documenting their views unless they are confident in their legal grounding.

In Shelby County, there was notable discontent among some citizens over former State’s Attorney Rob Hanlon's absence from board meetings. However, no objections were raised when Nichole Kroncke, his predecessor, also ceased attending these meetings.

The article suggests that the State’s Attorney's office need not be present at county board meetings for several reasons. Their presence might lead to conflicts in representation, potentially increasing taxpayer costs. Additionally, providing immediate answers to legal queries often results in inadequate advice that overlooks other pertinent legal issues.

Tom Finks, a previously disciplined State’s Attorney in Christian County and former Shelby County State’s Attorney, will further illustrate this point in Part II of this series.