CBA evaluations in the race for the Toney vacancy in the 7th Subcircuit

The Chicago Bar Association has released its evaluations of candidates running for the Toney vacancy in the 7th 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.

Arthur P. Wheatley -- Qualified

Arthur P. Wheatley is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Wheatley was admitted to the Bar of Illinois in 1983 and has experience in both the private and government sector. Mr. Wheatley has extensive litigation experience and served as Deputy General Counsel for the Chicago Transit Authority. Mr. Wheatley is highly regarded by his peers for his outstanding temperament, knowledge of the law, and legal ability.

Mable Taylor -- Not Recommended

Mable Taylor is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Taylor was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and has been a solo practitioner her entire career. Her practice involves both criminal defense and civil matters. Ms. Taylor has performed extensive community and volunteer work. However, Ms. Taylor’s practice experience is limited and, at this time, she does not possess the breadth and depth of legal experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Kimberly D. Lewis -- 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.

Mark Battaglia -- Not Recommended

Mark Battaglia is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Battaglia was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and has both civil and criminal experience. Mr. Battaglia served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for six years before entering private practice and is currently a solo practitioner concentrating in criminal defense and civil trial work. Mr. Battaglia’s practice experience falls short of the Committee’s 12-year guideline and additional practice experience would better prepare him for service on the bench. It is recommended that Mr. Battaglia obtain additional practice experience before re-applying.

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