was created in 1928 by an act of Congress that split Indiana into two separate districts, northern and southern.

As part of the act, the Northern District was divided into three divisions, South Bend, Fort Wayne, and Hammond (which has a sub-office in Lafayette).

As of January 29, 2024[update]: Chief judges have administrative responsibilities with respect to their district court.

The chief judge serves for a term of seven years, or until age 70, whichever occurs first.

The age restrictions are waived if no members of the court would otherwise be qualified for the position.