As the chief deputy treasurer and general counsel for the Indiana State Treasurer, Jim (James) Holden has gained experience with cases involving tax, contract, and securities law. Jim Holden balances this position with his role as a major in the 38th Infantry Division of the Indiana Army National Guard, where he also provides legal services to military families and service members across the country and overseas as a Judge Advocate.

In the National Guard, there is an opportunity for legal professionals and practicing attorneys to become Judge Advocate General (JAG) officers. JAG officers function as a legal resource for a wide range of military personnel, including the State Adjutant General, soldiers, and units. As such, JAG officers assist soldiers with legal records and prepare other legal professionals on a domestic and international level. JAG officers are also responsible for investigating, defending, and prosecuting individuals charged with military crimes.

To meet the legal requirements to

become a JAG officer, an applicant

must have a JD from an ABA-approved

law school and hold admittance to the

state bar in the state where they wish to

serve in the National Guard. JAG officers

must also engage in three phases of

preliminary JAG officer training.