1. (a) Each judge appointed serves an initial term that begins on the effective date of the judge's appointment and continues through December 31 in the year of the general election that follows the expiration of two (2) years after the effective date of the judge's appointment.

2. (b) Thereafter, unless the judge:

   1. (1) is rejected by the electorate of St. Joseph County under this chapter; or

   2. (2) does not file the statement required under section 43 of this chapter;

      each judge of the St. Joseph superior court serves successive six (6) year terms. Each successive six (6) year term begins on the first day of January following the expiration of the preceding initial term or the preceding six (6) year term and continues for six (6) years.

      [Pre-2004 Recodification Citation: 33-5-40-46.]

As added by P.L.98-2004, SEC.12. Amended by P.L.74-2017, SEC.76.