CBA evaluations in the race for the countywide Ward vacancy

The Chicago Bar Association has released its evaluations of candidates running for the Ward vacancy. Candidates are listed in ballot order. All of the following are candidates in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this (or any other) countywide Circuit Court vacancy.

Alfred M. Swanson, Jr. -- Qualified

Judge Alfred M. Swanson, Jr. is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Swanson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1982 and was appointed a Circuit Court Judge in 2010. Prior to his appointment to the Circuit Court, Judge Swanson concentrated his practice in litigation, tort and product liability, and general defense work. Judge Swanson has extensive civil litigation experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, work ethic, and fine judicial temperament.

Denise Marie Nalley -- Not Recommended

The candidate declined to participate in the Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) screening process and, therefore, according to The Chicago Bar Association’s governing resolution for the JEC, is auto¬matically found NOT RECOMMENDED.

Elizabeth Mary Hayes -- Not Recommended

Elizabeth Mary Hayes is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Hayes was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1986 and is currently serving as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender in the First Municipal District. At this stage of her career, Ms. Hayes does not possess the requisite knowledge of the law, temperament, demeanor, and practice experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Joan Marie Kubalanza -- Qualified

Judge Joan Marie G. Kubalanza is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Kubalanza was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1984 and clerked for an Illinois Supreme Court Justice for two years before entering private practice. Judge Kubalanza concentrated in commercial litigation and appellate practice. Judge Kubalanza served as an Associate Judge in 1998-1999 and was recalled in 2008. Judge Kubalanza is currently assigned to the Child Protection Division of the Juvenile Justice and Child Protection Division. Judge Kubalanza knows the law, is hardworking, diligent, and possesses a fine demeanor.

Peter J. Vilkelis -- Qualified

Peter Vilkelis is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Vilkelis was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1980 and served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for nine years. Since that time, Mr. Vilkelis has been a sole practitioner concentrating in criminal defense work. Mr. Vilkelis enjoys an outstanding reputation for his integrity, legal knowledge, trial skills, temperament, and fine demeanor.

Brian J. Stephenson -- Qualified

Brian J. Stephenson is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Stephenson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1988 and is currently in private practice concentrating in civil and criminal law. Mr. Stephenson is an experienced practitioner with varied litigation experience. Mr. Stephenson has a fine temperament and possesses the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Back to Chicago Bar Association releases judicial candidate evaluations