CBA evaluations in the race for the Cole vacancy in the 8th Subcircuit

The Chicago Bar Association has released its evaluations of candidates running for the Cole vacancy in the 8th Subcircuit. Candidates are listed in ballot order. All of the following are candidates in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this Circuit Court vacancy.

Brad Trowbridge -- Not Recommended

Brad Trowbridge is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Mr. Trowbridge was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and is currently in private practice concentrating in family law matters. At this stage of his career, Mr. Trowbridge has limited practice experience which would make judicial service difficult. It is recommended that Mr. Trowbridge gain additional practice experience before reapplying for a judicial position.

John H. Ehrlich -- Highly Qualified

John H. Ehrlich is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Ehrlich was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1988 and is currently serving as Deputy Corporation Counsel, Torts Division, in the City of Chicago’s Law Department. Mr. Ehrlich supervises a large staff and is well respected by his peers for his legal knowledge and ability.

Gideon Abraham Baum -- Not Recommended

Gideon Baum is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Baum was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1992 and currently serves as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Juvenile Court. Mr. Baum’s practice experience is narrow and at this stage of his career, he lacks the breadth and depth of legal knowledge to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Helaine "Lainie" Berger -- Not Recommended

Judge Helaine Berger is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Berger was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1981 and has served as an Associate Judge since 1997. Judge Berger has had a number of assignments and is currently assigned to the Domestic Relations Division. Judge Berger has a strong work ethic and is committed to the legal profession. However, Judge Berger needs to address significant concerns about her temperament and professionalism.

James L. Kaplan -- Qualified

Judge James L. Kaplan is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Kaplan was admit¬ted to practice law in Illinois in 1971 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2010. Judge Kaplan is thoughtful, possesses a good demeanor, and has performed well on the bench.

Ellis B. Levin -- Qualified

Ellis Levin is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Levin was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1973 and served for a time as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney. Mr. Levin has been a solo practitioner for more than 25 years and concentrates his practice in real estate law. Mr. Levin also served as a State Representative in the Illinois General Assembly for 16 years. Mr. Levin has written extensively on real estate law and legislation. Mr. Levin is highly regarded for his integrity and knowledge of the law.

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