Local attorney named Isabella County judge
Attorney Eric Janes was in his office Tuesday when he received a call from Gov. Rick Snyder with good news.
While on the phone with Michigan’s governor, Janes, who practices law at Janes, Backus & Janes, PC., was told he would be the next trial court judge for Isabella County.
“I’m honored and I’m humbled to receive the appointment and I look forward to the challenges it brings,” Janes said.
The local attorney, who is originally from Mount Pleasant, will finish the rest of the term left by Judge William Rush, who retired on Aug. 31 after serving as Isabella County trial court judge for more than 18 years.
“I will serve the remainder of his term,” Janes said. “And if there is an opponent in November 2014, I will have to run in a general election.”
Each term for a county judge is six years.
Shortly after hearing the news, Janes’ predecessor passed along his blessings.
“I’ve received word from (Rush) of congratulations,” Janes said. “He’s in Florida right now, but word came to me that he congratulated me.”
Janes started his legal career in Mount Clemens, with Martin, Bacon & Martin PC., after attaining his law degree. He then returned to Mount Pleasant with longtime friend Bob Backus in 1991 to go into practice with his father.
Before taking office, Janes said he has to finish up at his practice within the next few weeks before taking an oath of office at a swearing-in ceremony.
“I guess it’s a nice transition,” Janes said. “I’ve been practicing law for 25 years and I look forward to the change in my career and working with the other judges.”
Backus, who is another partner at Janes, Backus & Janes, PC., was in the office with Janes when he was told the news.
“I think Eric is an excellent candidate given his background in Isabella County,” Backus said. “He’s a very honest, loyal and dedicated person. I'm going to miss him.”
Janes, Backus & Janes, PC. handles a majority of business-related law, commercial litigation and family law.
