CBA evaluations in the race for the countywide Stewart vacancy

The Chicago Bar Association has released its evaluations of candidates running for the Stewart 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.

Pamela M. Leeming -- Qualified

Judge Pamela Leeming is “Qualified” to serve as a Recalled Judge of the Circuit Court. Judge Leeming was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and served as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender for twenty years before her appointment to the bench in 2009. Judge Leeming’s extensive knowledge and experience in Criminal Law has served her well on the bench. Judge Leeming is well respected for her integrity and excellent judicial demeanor. Judge Leeming is hardworking, conscientious, and enthusiastic about her role on the bench.

Terrence M. Jordan -- Not Recommended

Terrence M. Jordan is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Jordan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1976 and worked as an Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago before entering private practice. Mr. Jordan concentrates his practice in litigation and Real Estate Law. Concerns about Mr. Jordan’s depth of practice and litigation experience coupled with concerns about his organizational and management skills resulted in a “Not Recommended” finding.

Deidre Baumann -- Not Recommended

Deidre Baumann is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Baumann was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1992 and is currently in private practice. While Ms. Baumann has practiced law for almost 20 years, concerns about the depth of her practice, legal ability, and diligence in effectively managing her time and caseload resulted in the Committee’s finding of “Not Recommended.”

Mary Margaret Burke -- Qualified

Mary Margaret Burke is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Burke was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and is currently serving as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney in the Medical Litigation Section. Ms. Burke also holds a masters degree in nursing and served as a registered nurse. Ms. Burke has handled complex litigation and is well regarded for her strong work ethic and even temperament.

Sammy W. Lacey Jr. -- 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 automatically found NOT RECOMMENDED.

Rhonda Salleé -- Not Recommended

Rhonda Salleé is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Salleé was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1999 and is currently in solo practice concentrating in family law matters. Ms. Salleé is in the early stages of her legal career and has had limited practice and court experience. The candidate needs additional time to expand the breadth and depth of her experience.

Steve Demitro -- 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 automatically found NOT RECOMMENDED.

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