Indiana Code Title 33. Courts and Court Officers § 33-31-1-3

Sec. 3. (a) The court consists of one (1) judge, to be elected by the legal voters of the county for a term of six (6) years:

The election must occur at the time of the general election every six (6) years.

(b) The judge shall be commissioned by the governor in the same manner as judges of the circuit court.  Vacancies occurring in the office of judge of the probate court shall be filled by appointment by the governor, in the same manner as vacancies in the office of judge of the circuit court.

(c) To be eligible to hold office as judge of the court, a person must be a resident of St. Joseph County.