South Bend, Indiana – On behalf of the judges of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana, Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio announced that Chanda J. Berta has been selected as the next Clerk of Court effective May 8, 2023.
Ms. Berta joined the Northern District of Indiana in January of 2007 as a law clerk to the late Judge Allen Sharp. Ms. Berta’s long tenure with the court has included serving in the capacities of acting clerk of court, chief deputy, divisional manager, and career law clerk. Before joining the federal judiciary, Ms. Berta worked as an Associate at Hunt Suedhoff Kalamaros LLP, now known as Hunt Suedhoff Kearney LLP. Ms. Berta graduated summa cum laude from DePauw University and received her Juris Doctorate from Valparaiso University School of Law. She is a first-generation college graduate and native to South Bend.
Chief Judge DeGuilio stated, “Chanda is uniquely qualified to serve our district by virtue of her diverse experience as a law clerk to several judges, a practicing attorney, and having held several leadership positions within the Clerk’s Office. She possesses the intellect, work ethic and professional commitment to assist in the effective administration of justice through the critical resources of her office. I know I speak for all our judges when I express my appreciation for her service and welcome her to her new role.”
As Clerk of Court, Ms. Berta will report directly to Chief Judge DeGuilio and the other judges of the Northern District of Indiana. The Clerk oversees a wide variety of services for the entire district, the court community, and the public. Ms. Berta’s responsibilities will encompass many legal, administrative, and operational duties, including managing the Court’s budget, information technology, jury services, space and facilities, as well as overseeing staff responsible for processing cases and assisting the public.
On learning of her appointment, Ms. Berta remarked, “I am truly honored and elated to serve our Court in the capacity as Clerk of Court. I sincerely thank our bench for the unanimous support and trusting in me. I appreciate everyone for working hard every day to keep our operations running smoothly to ensure the effective administration of justice. This opportunity is a dream come true, and I won’t disappoint. Thank you. I look forward to the road ahead.”