CBA evaluations in the race for the Rochford vacancy in the 12th Subcircuit

The Chicago Bar Association has released its evaluations of candidates running for the Rochford vacancy in the 12th Subcircuit. Candidates are listed in ballot order.

Democratic Candidates

Andrea M. Schleifer -- Qualified

Andrea M. Schleifer is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Schleifer was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1979 and is well versed in both civil and criminal law. Ms. Schleifer concentrates her practice in domestic relations and has handled many complex cases. Ms. Schleifer is well spoken, even tempered, and possesses all the necessary qualifications for service as a Circuit Court Judge.

Michael John Halloran -- Qualified

Michael Halloran is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Halloran was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and has served his entire career as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender. Mr. Halloran has extensive jury and bench trial experience and is well regarded for his legal knowledge, work ethic, and fine demeanor.

Robert P. Babbitt -- 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.

Daniel P. Scott -- 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.

James C. Murray -- Qualified

Judge James Cunningham Murray, Jr. is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Murray was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1969 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2001. Judge Murray most recently served as a recalled judge in the Tax and Miscellaneous Remedies Section of the Circuit Court’s Law Division. Judge Murray’s recall ended December 4, 2011. Judge Murray is hardworking, diligent and well regarded for his knowledge of the law and judicial experience.

Republican Candidate

James Paul Pieczonka -- Not Recommended

James Pieczonka is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Pieczonka was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and is currently a solo practitioner concentrating in Taxation, Real Estate and Condominium Law. Mr. Pieczonka’s practice and court experience is limited. Mr. Pieczonka held a real estate broker’s license from 2004-2007 and was actively involved as a broker during this period. The candidate owns a number of properties that are currently in foreclosure and is personally involved in several residual court actions. Mr. Pieczonka needs to gain additional practice experience and resolve these financial responsibility concerns before reapplying to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

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