Joseph Ryan Johns
also known as Votaw & Schwarz
About Joseph
Biography
I am an attorney and judge practicing in the southeast Indiana region. I recieved a B.A in History from Northern Kentucky University, my law degree from Salmon P. Chase (Northern Kentucky University.) I have operated a general practice since 2010 at the Votaw & Schwarz Law Firm, located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana.
I view my role as an attorney, is not simply a profession but a calling. Being able to provide sound legal advice and assistance is a tenant in our Oath. However, I believe it is just as important to care, to be that source of reassurance, needed to navigate through our legal system. I take a personal interest in each of my clients cases.
As an attorney, I believe you have an obligation to help and assist your community. Because of this belief, I have been an active member and board member to community focused non-profit organizations. I also make it a point to provide pro-bono assistance to those in need. Pro-bono cases are generally decided by my case load status, pending legal issue, and needs of the client.
In January 2016, I was appointed by former Indiana Governor Vice President Michael Pence to serve as Judge of the Lawrenceburg City Court. The Judgeship is a part time position and does not affect the majority of my private practice. I am happy to assist and serve my community in this new role.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
10 %
Sometimes
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Indiana for 15 years
State: Indiana
Acquired: 2010
No misconduct found
Location
Votaw & Schwarz
60 E High St, Lawrenceburg, IN, 47025-1820
Lawrenceburg City Court
349 Walnut Street, Lawrenceburg, IN, 47025
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Joseph Ryan Johns's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 7 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | June 23, 2025 | Consulted Attorney
Lying?
He do not work with traffic ticket, but he added this type of offence at the profile. Just waste my time.
Posted by anonymous | December 30, 2014
Great attorney
Joe Johns is an amazing attorney!!! He worked so hard for me, he was very dedicated and keep in constant contact with me!!! He was very informative and helpful. I would highly recommend his services to anyone!!!
Posted by anonymous | December 29, 2014
Great Lawrenceburg Attorney
I had a traffic ticket that I forgot to pay and I was pulled over at 11pm and taken to jail bc of a failure to appear and driving on a suspended license. Mr. Johns got me out of jail by 2am. No one believed I would get out but Mr. Johns came through and I now have my license, the case was dismissed, ...
Posted by anonymous | December 29, 2014
Knowledgeable Attorney
Helped me with multiple legal issues. Mr. Johns is genuine, respectful, and honest. He did everything for me and all I did was show up and sign papers. Mr. Johns explains the issues and gives you clear answers. Great attorney and I would recommend him to anyone!
Posted by lanniehoney | December 4, 2014
Helped with child support and stopped the modification
Joe kept me informed from the very first step of the process and all the way through court I could'nt of a better attorney that felt every pain that I did, he was so understanding. I Would highly recommend him.
Joseph Ryan Johns's Lawyer Endorsements
"I had the pleasure of meeting Judge Johns when I did an externship with the Dearborn County Prosecutor’s office, while he presided over Lawrenceburg City Court. I found him to possess a patient demeanor and strong command of the law. Always fair in his practice. Judge Johns is an exceptional attorney."
Unknown lawyer
Personal injury lawyer
Experience
Honors
2017
Top 10 Attorneys Under 40, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys
2014
Client's Choice - Criminal Defense, Avvo
2009
National Order of Scribes, The American Society of Legal Writers
Work Experience
2016 - Present
Board Attorney, City of Rising Sun Planning Commission
2016 - Present
Board Attorney, City of Rising Sun Board of Zoning and Appeals
2016 - Present
Judge, City of Lawrenceburg City Court
2010 - Present
Attorney, Votaw & Schwarz
2012 - 2015
Board Attorney, City of Lawrenceburg - Advisory Planning Board
2012 - 2015
Board Attorney, City of Lawrenceburg - Board of Zoning and Appeals
2012 - 2015
Board Attorney, City of Lawrenceburg - Historic Preservation Board
Associations
2017 - Present
Indiana Assciation of City and Town Court JudgesMember, Member of the Legislative Committee
2015 - Present
Warm the ChildrenBoard of Directors
2010 - Present
Son's of the American Legion
Member
Member
2012 - 2013
Main Street FoundationBoard of Directors
2010 - 2012
American Bar Association
2009 - 2010
American Society of Legal WritersMember, National Scribe
2006 - 2014
Ancient Order of Hibernians Irish Fraternal Organization
2005 - 2014
Knights of Columbus
Education
2010
JD - Juris Doctor
2007
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2017
Key Note Speaker for the 98th Annivesary of the American Legion
2016
Career in the Legal Fields
2016
Key Note Speaker for the American Legion 97th Anniversary Speech
2014
Dispute Resolution through Negotiations and Communication
2014
Drug Abuse and its Role in Criminal Law
2011
Healthcare Ethics and the Law
Publications
2009
Languages
English
Activity
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