Chicago Bar Association findings for candidates in Subcircuits 13, 14 and 15

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the various countywide vacancies (the Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies; and the McGinnis, Rooney, Dunford, and Egan vacancies).

For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking judicial office in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Subcircuits, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates in Subcircuits 4, 5, and 6, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking vacancies in the 8th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Subcircuits, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates running for vacancies in the 13th, 14th, and 15th Subcircuits, read on:

13th Subcircuit

Crane Vacancy

Republican Candidates

GARY WILLIAM SEYRING - QUALIFIED

Gary William Seyring is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Seyring was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1978 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in family law, real estate, business law, and wills, trusts and estates. Mr. Seyring has commercial litigation experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of probate, tax and family law. Mr. Seyring is actively involved in community service and highly regarded by the judges before whom he has appeared.

SUSANNE GROEBNER - QUALIFIED

Susanne Groebner is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Groebner was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and is currently serving as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney in the Third Municipal District. Ms. Groebner has tried many complex cases and is well respected by judges and lawyers for her knowledge of the law, outstanding trial skills, fine demeanor and temperament.

Democratic Candidate

KETKI SHROFF STEFFEN - QUALIFIED

Judge Ketki Shroff Steffen is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Steffen was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991 and was first appointed to the Circuit Court in 2010. Judge Steffen served on the bench for two years and presided over traffic, civil and criminal domestic violence cases. From 2013 to November 2015, she served as an Administrative Law Judge Arbitrator for the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. Judge Steffen was reappointed to the Circuit Court in 2015 and is currently assigned to the First Municipal District where she presides over forcible detainer cases. Judge Steffen is diligent and highly regarded her knowledge of the law, judicial ability, and integrity.

Lawrence Vacancy

Republican Candidates

DANIEL PATRICK FITZGERALD - NOT RECOMMENDED

Daniel Patrick Fitzgerald is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Fitzgerald was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991 and is currently senior in-house counsel for a large corporation. Mr. Fitzgerald has worked as an in-house counsel for twelve (12) years and represents the company in a variety of civil litigation matters. Mr. Fitzgerald’s prior legal experience includes: serving as a law clerk to a Cook County Chancery Court Judge (2 years); Chicago’s Office of Inspector General (3 years); General Counsel, Illinois Racing Board (3 years); and Assistant Illinois Attorney General (6 years). While Mr. Fitzgerald has had a broad range of experience, his court and trial experience is limited. He does not possess the depth and breadth of legal knowledge and practice to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

MICHAEL P. GERBER - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Michael P. Gerber is “Highly Qualified” for the office Circuit Court Judge. Judge Gerber was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1980 and served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender for four years and as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for 32 years before his appointment to the Circuit Court in 2016. Judge Gerber is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, judicial ability, commitment to fairness, and excellent temperament.

Democratic Candidate

SHANNON P. O’MALLEY - NOT RECOMMENDED

Shannon P. O’Malley 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.

O'Donnell Vacancy

Republican Candidates

CHRISTINE SVENSON - NOT RECOMMENDED

Christine Svenson is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Svenson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1995 and is currently a solo practitioner concentrating in family law, employment law, election law, and workers’ compensation matters. Concerns about Ms. Svenson’s knowledge of the law, legal ability, and practice experience were raised in the wake of harsh criticism that she received from the Illinois Appellate Court for not following the Appellate Court Rules in a recent appeal that she was handling. Ms. Svenson does not possess the requisite depth and breadth of legal knowledge and practice experience to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Democratic Candidate

SAMUEL J. BETAR, III - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Samuel J. Betar, III is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Betar was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and has served as a judge since 1998. Judge Betar has mentored new judges and has spoken at the state judicial conference. Judge Betar is actively involved in community service and is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, effective management of his courtroom, and outstanding temperament.

14th Subcircuit

Garcia Vacancy

MARINA AMMENDOLA - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Marina Ammendola is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Ammendola was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in personal injury and medical malpractice matters. Ms. Ammendola also receives appointments as a guardian ad litem in a variety of contexts. Ms. Ammendola has extensive trial experience and is highly regarded by her peers and the judges before whom she appears for her knowledge of the law, advocacy skills, fine temperament, diligence, and professionalism. Ms. Ammendola is a former school teacher and is active in charitable organizations that benefit many child-related issues.

BEATRIZ A. FRAUSTO-SANDOVAL - NOT RECOMMENDED

Beatriz A. Frausto-Sandoval is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Frausto-Sandoval was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2005 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in immigration law. While Ms. Frausto-Sandoval has a fine temperament; at this stage of her career, she does not possess the depth and breadth of practice and court experience to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

15th Subcircuit

Scully, Jr. Vacancy

ASHONTA RICE-AKIWOWO - NOT RECOMMENDED

Ashonta Rice-Akiwowo is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Ms. Rice was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2005 and is engaged in private practice concentrating in family law, juvenile law, and social security. Ms. Rice is dedicated, articulate, intelligent, and possesses a fine demeanor and temperament. However, at this stage of her career, Ms. Rice’s practice experience is limited and additional substantive practice experience would better prepare her for service as an Associate Judge.

MICHAEL B. BARRETT - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Michael B. Barrett is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Barrett was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in workers’ compensation, personal injury, wills, trusts and estate matters. Mr. Barrett has extensive trial and practice experience and has handled many complex cases. He is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, excellent legal ability, diligence, and outstanding demeanor.

Zelezinski Vacancy

Republican Candidate

KARLA MARIE FIAONI - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Karla Marie Fiaoni is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Fiaoni was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and is currently in private practice concentrating in criminal defense and domestic relations matters. Ms. Fiaoni has extensive trial and practice experience and is highly regarded for her integrity, excellent demeanor, knowledge of the law, and legal ability.

Democratic Candidates

ANTHONY SWANAGAN - QUALIFIED

Anthony Swanagan is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Swanagan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and has practiced in a variety of settings including private practice for three years, corporate in-house counsel for ten years managing litigation, and for a period of time, serving as General Counsel. For the past fifteen years, Mr. Swanagan has served as a clerk to various Justices of the Illinois Appellate Court and for a U.S. District Court Judge. Mr. Swanagan is well regarded by his peers, supervisors and co-workers for his knowledge of the law and legal skills. Mr. Swanagan is a good lawyer and his extensive in-house experience in managing corporate litigation and experience as a law clerk to Justices of the Illinois Appellate Court and for a U.S. District Court Judge give him the depth and breadth of experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

SCOTT MCKENNA - QUALIFIED

Scott McKenna is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. McKenna was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and is a partner in a small law firm concentrating in civil litigation and insurance defense. Mr. McKenna has extensive practice experience and is well regarded by his peers for his knowledge of the law and legal ability.

Chicago Bar Association findings for candidates in Subcircuits 8, 10, 11, and 12

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the various countywide vacancies (the Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies; and the McGinnis, Rooney, Dunford, and Egan vacancies).

For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking judicial office in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Subcircuits, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates in Subcircuits 4, 5, and 6, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking vacancies in the 8th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Subcircuits, read on:

8th Subcircuit

Fabri Vacancy

JAMES (JAMIE) SHAPIRO - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

James (Jamie) Shapiro is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Shapiro was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1985 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in civil litigation and criminal defense matters. Mr. Shapiro was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2007 and served on the bench until 2012. Mr. Shapiro has extensive practice experience and is highly regarded for his knowledge of civil and criminal law.

STEPHEN J. FELDMAN - QUALIFIED

Stephen J. Feldman is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Feldman was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal defense and transportation law. Mr. Feldman possesses the requisite knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

ROBIN DENISE SHOFFNER - QUALIFIED

Judge Robin Denise Shoffner is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Shoffner was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and was appointed to the bench in 2014. Judge Shoffner is currently assigned to the Fourth Municipal District. Judge Shoffner possesses the requisite legal ability to serve as a Circuit Court Judge and is working to address concerns about her legal knowledge and temperament.

JOHN CHRISTOPHER BENSON - QUALIFIED

John Christopher Benson is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Benson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and is engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal and civil rights law. Mr. Benson has extensive practice experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, integrity, and temperament.

BONNIE C. MCGRATH - NOT RECOMMENDED

Bonnie C. McGrath 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.

Liu Vacancy

LINDSAY HUGE - QUALIFIED

Lindsay Huge is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Huge was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and has served as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender his entire career. Mr. Huge is currently assigned to the Appellate Post Conviction Unit and has written more than 137 appellate briefs and personally argued 13 cases in the Illinois Appellate Court. Mr. Huge has had bench and jury trial experience in a wide variety of criminal cases. Mr. Huge possesses a fine demeanor and temperament and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law and legal ability.

MICHAEL A. FORTI - QUALIFIED

Michael A. Forti is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Forti was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1980 and has experience in both the private sector and government. Mr. Forti is an experienced lawyer well regarded for his judgment, fine demeanor, and temperament.

CYRUS HOSSEINI - NOT RECOMMENDED

Cyrus Hosseini 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.

ATHENA FARMAKIS - QUALIFIED

Athena Farmakis is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Farmakis was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993 and has worked as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for her entire career. Ms. Farmakis has served as a Supervisor in the Juvenile Justice and Child Protection Division and then as Supervisor of Preliminary Hearings in the Criminal Court. Ms. Farmakis has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for her work ethic, knowledge of the law, and legal ability.

Pethers Vacancy

JEANNE MARIE WRENN - QUALIFIED

Jeanne Marie Wrenn is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Wrenn was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and served for almost ten years as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney. Ms. Wrenn also served as the Ethics and EEO officer for PACE and as General Counsel of the National Safety Council. Ms. Wrenn is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, excellent legal ability, and outstanding temperament.

MYRON F. MACKOFF - QUALIFIED

Myron F. Mackoff is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Mackoff was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and served in the Illinois Attorney General’s office for eight years before entering private practice. Mr. Mackoff has bench and jury trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of civil and criminal law, legal ability, and even temperament.

RISHI AGRAWAL - QUALIFIED

Rishi Agrawal is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Agrawal was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1998 and is currently engaged in private practice. Mr. Agrawal has experience in both civil and criminal law and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as an Associate Judge.

10th Subcircuit

O'Neill Burke Vacancy

STEPHANIE SALTOUROS - QUALIFIED

Stephanie Saltouros is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Saltouros was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for 12 years before entering private practice. Ms. Saltouros has substantial felony and misdemeanor trial experience. Ms. Saltouros is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, integrity, fine temperament, diligence, work ethic, good communication skills and punctuality.

GWYN E. WARD BROWN - QUALIFIED

Gwynn E. Ward Brown is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Brown was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991 and has served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender for 26 years. Ms. Brown has extensive experience in post-convictions and appeals and possesses the requisite legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

LORRAINE MURPHY - NOT RECOMMENDED

Lorraine Murphy is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Murphy was admitted to practice law in 2003 and is serving as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney in the Felony Trial Division at the George N. Leighton Criminal Court. Ms. Murphy was serving as a member of the Judicial Evaluation Committee when the committee began its investigative work for candidates running in the March 2018 primary. Ms. Murphy’s “Not Recommended” finding is based on Rule 17.5 of the Judicial Evaluation Committee’s governing resolution, which reads in pertinent part “…a candidate’s participation in the evaluation shall be deemed to have occurred if the candidate is still a member of the committee on the date investigation files are first distributed to investigation teams for other judicial candidates in the same primary or general election.”

Suriano Vacancy

COLLEEN REARDON DALY - QUALIFIED

Colleen Reardon Daly is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Daly was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and served for 13 years as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney before entering private practice six years ago. Ms. Daly has extensive experience in handling felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile law cases. In addition, Ms. Daly has administrative law experience before the Police Review Board. Ms. Daly has a passion for the law and is well regarded for her fine temperament and knowledge of civil and criminal law.

NOREEN PATRICIA CONNOLLY - NOT RECOMMENDED

Noreen Patricia Connolly 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.

GERALD CLEARY - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Gerald Cleary is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Cleary was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1989 and was appointed to the bench in 2015. Judge Cleary is currently assigned to the Chancery Division’s Mortgage Foreclosure/Mechanics Lien Section. Judge Cleary is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, diligence, and outstanding temperament.

JILL ROSE QUINN - QUALIFIED

Jill Rose Quinn is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Quinn was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in bankruptcy, probate, and real estate law. Ms. Quinn has extensive practice experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal ability, integrity, and outstanding demeanor and temperament.

THOMAS J. GABRYSZEWSKI - NOT RECOMMENDED

Thomas J. Gabryszewski is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Gabryszewski was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in personal injury matters. Mr. Gabryszewski has limited experience in handling complex matters and does not possess the requisite legal knowledge and practice experience to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

11th Subcircuit

Kennedy Vacancy

JOANNE F. ROSADO - QUALIFIED

Judge Joanne F. Rosado is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Rosado was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender from 2002-2017. Ms. Rosado was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2017 and is currently assigned to the First Municipal District. Judge Rosado is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, judicial ability, diligence, and outstanding temperament.

SCOTT J. FRANKEL - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Scott J. Frankel is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Frankel was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and is engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal and civil rights law. Mr. Frankel has extensive practice experience in handling complex cases in both the federal and state courts. Mr. Frankel is highly regarded by his colleagues, adversaries, and judges before whom he has appeared for his knowledge of the law and legal ability.

12th Subcircuit

Maki Vacancy

Republican Candidates

DAVID STUDENROTH - QUALIFIED

David Studenroth is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Studenroth was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal matters. Mr. Studenroth has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, diligence, and excellent temperament.

ALAN M. JACOB - NOT RECOMMENDED

Alan M. Jacob 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.

Democratic Candidates

JOEL CHUPACK - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Joel Chupack is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Chupack was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1982 and is currently practicing with a small firm concentrating in real estate, probate, and civil litigation. Mr. Chupack has extensive practice experience and is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal scholarship, legal ability, and excellent temperament. Mr. Chupack, who is actively involved in the legal profession, has published numerous legal articles and is a frequent speaker at continuing legal education seminars.

CARMINE TROMBETTA - NOT RECOMMENDED

Carmine Trombetta is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Trombetta was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and is currently a solo practitioner concentrating in traffic and personal injury matters. At this stage of his career, Mr. Trombetta does not possess the requisite depth and breadth of legal knowledge and experience to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

THOMAS RAYMOND MOLITOR - NOT RECOMMENDED

Thomas Raymond Molitor 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.

Chicago Bar Association findings for candidates in Subcircuits 4, 5, and 6

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the various countywide vacancies (the Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies; and the McGinnis, Rooney, Dunford, and Egan vacancies).

For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking judicial office in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Subcircuits, click here. For the CBA's evaluations of candidates in Subcircuits 4, 5, and 6, read on:

4th Subcircuit

Davy Vacancy

DAVID NAVARRO - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge David Navarro is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Navarro was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993. Before his appointment to the bench, Judge Navarro served as Supervisor of Professional Responsibility in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office and for eight years as Chief of the Public Integrity Section in the Illinois Attorney General’s office. Judge Navarro has extensive jury and non-jury trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, excellent temperament, work ethic, and commitment to public service.

CAROLINE JAMIESON GOLDEN - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Caroline Jamieson Golden is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Golden was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1992 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in civil rights, government and municipal liability. Ms. Golden has extensive practice experience and has tried many complex civil and criminal matters. Ms. Golden is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, extensive legal experience, and professional demeanor.

Riley Vacancy

JOHN O’MEARA - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

John O’Meara is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. O’Meara was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1995 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in medical malpractice, complex litigation, government law, and construction negligence matters. Mr. O’Meara has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, integrity, calm demeanor, and excellent temperament.

ELIZABETH CIACCIA-LEZZA - QUALIFIED

Elizabeth Ciaccia-Lezza is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Ciaccia-Lezza was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and has served a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for her entire career. Ms. Ciaccia-Leeza is assigned to the Sex Crime/Internet Crimes Against Children Unit at the Criminal Court. Ms. Ciaccia-Leeza has extensive trial experience in prosecuting Internet cases and teaches federal government law enforcement officials about her area of expertise. Ms. Ciaccia-Leeza is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal and trial skills, and excellent demeanor.

DANNY COLLINS - QUALIFIED

Danny Collins is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Collins was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1998 and is engaged in private practice concentrating in workers’ compensation, administrative hearings, and appeals. Mr. Collins has an excellent demeanor and possesses the requisite depth and breadth of experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

MARTIN D. REGGI - NOT RECOMMENDED

Martin D. Reggi is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Reggi was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1980 and is currently engaged in private practice. Mr. Reggi has a varied general practice that includes administrative, real estate, traffic and criminal law matters. Mr. Reggi does not possess the legal knowledge, ability, practice experience, and diligence required to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

5th Subcircuit

Banks Vacancy

RHONDA SALLEE - NOT RECOMMENDED

Rhonda Sallee 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.

H. YVONNE COLEMAN - QUALIFIED

H. Yvonne Coleman is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Coleman began her career as a prosecutor in Louisiana and after relocating to Chicago was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1988. Ms. Coleman has had a varied career serving on the staff of the National Labor Relations Board, Executive Director of the Community Law Project, an administrative hearing officer, general counsel of the Chicago Superintendent Police Review Authority, and in the appeals division of the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Since 2004, with a two year interruption, Ms. Coleman has been a solo practitioner concentrating her practice in employment and labor law matters. Ms. Coleman is well regarded for her legal experience, integrity, calm and engaging demeanor, and her commitment to the law.

GINO BETTS - NOT RECOMMENDED

Gino Betts 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.

GWENDOLYN D. ANDERSON - NOT RECOMMENDED

Gwendolyn D. Anderson 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.

Jones Vacancy

MARIAN EMILY PERKINS - NOT RECOMMENDED

Judge Marian Emily Perkins is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Perkins was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney and as staff attorney with the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation. Judge Perkins entered private practice in 1998 and concentrated her practice largely in criminal matters. Judge Perkins was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2017 and is currently assigned to Traffic Court. While Judge Perkins is recognized for her integrity and excellent temperament, concerns about the depth of her legal knowledge and judicial ability resulted in a “Not Recommended” finding.

JENETIA MARSHALL - NOT RECOMMENDED

Jenetia Marshall 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.

DAVID L. KELLY - QUALIFIED

David L. Kelly is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Kelly was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in civil and criminal matters. Mr. Kelly is active in bar and community work and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal experience, integrity, fine temperament, and excellent demeanor.

Washington II Vacancy

ROBERT F. HARRIS - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Robert F. Harris is "Highly Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Harris was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991 and has served his entire career in the Cook County Public Guardian's office. Mr. Harris was appointed to lead the Public Guardian's office in 2004 and continues to serve with distinction as Cook County's Public Guardian. Mr. Harris is well regarded for his knowledge of the law and extensive legal ability that includes both jury and non-jury trial experience. Mr. Harris is also highly regarded for his dedication to public service, work ethic, integrity, and outstanding demeanor and temperament.

SHAY T. ALLEN - NOT RECOMMENDED

Shay T. Allen is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Mr. Allen was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2005 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal and civil matters. At this stage of his career, Mr. Allen does not possess sufficient practice experience to effectively serve as a judge. Also, Mr. Allen needs to address concerns about his punctuality and tardiness.

MARY MELCHOR - NOT RECOMMENDED

Mary Melchor is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Melchor was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1992 and has limited practice experience. Ms. Melchor worked as an associate from 1992-94; CHA from 1994-98; served as an associate at a defense law firm from 1998-2000; solo practitioner from 2000-2002; served as Chief Deputy Clerk in the Maybrook Court 2002-2003; associate clerk of the County Bureau from 2003-2005; and since 2005 as Inspector General for the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Ms. Melchor is well regarded for her integrity, outstanding demeanor and people skills. However, Ms. Melchor’s practical knowledge of the law, current court rules and procedures, coupled with her very limited practice experience would make it difficult for her to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

6th Subcircuit

Chevere Vacancy

DAVID C. HERRERA - NOT RECOMMENDED

David C. Herrera is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Herrera was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and serves as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney. Mr. Herrera is currently assigned to a felony trial call in Bridgeview. While Mr. Herrera possesses the requisite experience to serve as a judge, serious concerns about his temperament earlier in his career and candor about these concerns resulted in the “Not Recommended” finding.

KENT DELGADO - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Kent Delgado is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Delgado was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2017. Judge Delgado is currently assigned to the Probate Division. Judge Delgado has extensive civil and criminal trial experience and is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, and dedication to public service.

SEAN P. KELLY - NOT RECOMMENDED

Sean P. Kelly is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Kelly was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2006 and is currently serving as a DuPage County Assistant State’s Attorney. While Mr. Kelly is intelligent and diligent, additional practice experience would better prepare him to effectively serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Cooke Vacancy

EDWARD J. UNDERHILL - QUALIFIED

Edward J. Underhill is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Underhill was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1984 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in commercial litigation, appellate practice, and arbitration matters. Mr. Underhill has extensive litigation experience in complex commercial cases and is well regarded for his legal knowledge, work ethic, and commitment to public service.

CHARLES “CHARLIE” BEACH - QUALIFIED

Judge Charles “Charlie” Beach is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Beach was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2017. Judge Beach is well regarded by lawyers who appear before him for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, diligence, and compassion.

ANDREA MICHELLE WEBBER - QUALIFIED

Andrea Michelle Webber is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Webber was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2002 and is currently working as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender assigned to the Homicide Task Force. Ms. Webber has extensive court experience and has tried many complex cases. Ms. Webber is well regarded by the judges before whom she has appeared and by opposing counsel for her knowledge of the law and legal experience.

Lopez Cepero Vacancy

LINDA PEREZ - QUALIFIED

Linda Perez is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Perez was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and has served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender since her admission to the bar. Ms. Perez has had varied assignments in the Public Defender’s Office including probation, juvenile justice, traffic and specialty courts. Ms. Perez is well regarded for her excellent demeanor and possesses the requisite depth and breadth of legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

STEPHANIE MILLER - QUALIFIED

Stephanie Miller is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Miller was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1999 and is serving as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney, First Chair, in the Felony Trial Division at the Leighton Criminal Court. Ms. Miller has extensive trial and court experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of law and legal ability. Ms. Miller is dedicated to public service and is actively engaged in community and bar association work.

Chicago Bar Association findings for candidates in Subcircuits 1, 2 and 3

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the various countywide vacancies (the Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies; and the McGinnis, Rooney, Dunford, and Egan vacancies). For the CBA's evaluations of candidates seeking judicial office in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Subcircuits, read on:

1st Subcircuit

Hambright, Jr. Vacancy

LITRICIA PAYNE - QUALIFIED

Litricia Payne is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Payne, who is a resident of Cook County, was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1997 and is currently a supervisor in the felony division of the Will County Public Defender’s Office. Ms. Payne has extensive trial experience and has personally tried 44 criminal jury trials. Ms. Payne played a major role in the expansion of alternate treatment programs for defendants with mental health and substance abuse issues. Ms. Payne is thoughtful and well regarded for her knowledge of the law, extensive experience, and excellent demeanor.

ERIKA L. ORR - QUALIFIED

Erika L. Orr is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Orr was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1998 and served in public accounting for 11 years concentrating on international tax matters. Since 2011, Ms. Orr has practiced law as a solo practitioner concentrating in adoption, matrimonial and domestic violence matters. Ms. Orr is intelligent, articulate, and well regarded for her integrity and calm demeanor. Ms. Orr possesses the requisite legal knowledge and ability to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

2nd Subcircuit

Lampkin Vacancy

TIANA ELLIS BLAKLEY - QUALIFIED

Tiana Ellis Blakley is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Blakely was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2004 and is currently serving as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender in the 6th Municipal District. Ms. Blakely has extensive jury and bench trial experience and has handled complex cases involving scientific and medical evidence. Ms. Blakely is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal ability, and calm demeanor.

FREDRICK H. BATES - QUALIFIED

Fredrick H. Bates is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Bates was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and concentrated his practice in labor and employment law. For the last fifteen years, Mr. Bates has served as a full-time Hearing Officer for several government agencies. Mr. Bates presides over complex employment cases and other substantial matters and is well regarded for his legal knowledge and ability. Mr. Bates possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Laws Vacancy

WILLIAM H. LAWS - QUALIFIED

William H. Laws is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Laws was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1980 and is engaged in solo practice concentrating in criminal law. Mr. Laws has extensive trial experience in both the state and federal court and is well regarded for his legal knowledge, legal ability, fine demeanor, and calm temperament.

ADRIENNE ELAINE DAVIS - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Adrienne Elaine Davis is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Davis was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and has served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender for 22 years. Ms. Davis has extensive criminal trial experience and has tried many complex cases. Ms. Davis is passionate about the law and is highly regarded for her legal knowledge, legal ability, and outstanding demeanor.

Rhodes Vacancy

TOYA T. HARVEY - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Toya T. Harvey is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Harvey was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1995 and served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender until March 3, 2017, when she was appointed to the Circuit Court. Judge Harvey is currently assigned to the First Municipal Division where she presides over Forcible Entry and Detainer cases. Judge Harvey efficiently manages a very busy call and does an excellent job in explaining the court process to pro se litigants. Judge Harvey is hardworking, compassionate, and well regarded for her knowledge of the law, trial experience, and outstanding temperament and demeanor.

TIESHA SMITH - NOT RECOMMENDED

Tiesha Smith 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.

Turner, Jr. Vacancy

TRAVIS RICHARDSON - QUALIFIED

Travis Richardson is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Richardson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1997 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal and civil litigation. Mr. Richardson has extensive trial and court experience and is also active in community service. Mr. Richardson possesses the requisite legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

IESHIA GRAY - QUALIFIED

Ieshia Gray is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Gray was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2002 and is currently working as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender. Ms. Gray has extensive court and trial experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal ability, and fine temperament.

Willis Vacancy

DEBRA A. SEATON - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Judge Debra A. Seaton is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Seaton was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1986. Judge Seaton’s experience includes service as an Assistant Public Defender in Kane County and Cook County and as a private practitioner concentrating in criminal law for approximately 10 years. Judge Seaton was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2017 and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law and legal experience.

SHEREE D. HENRY - QUALIFIED

Sheree D. Henry is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Henry was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and served for 18 years as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender and four years with the Public Guardian’s Office. Ms. Henry is well regarded for her integrity, calm demeanor, legal knowledge, and passionate advocacy on behalf of her clients.

UBI O’NEAL - NOT RECOMMENDED

Ubi O’Neal 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.

Valarie Turner Vacancy

DEVLIN J. SCHOOP - QUALIFIED

Judge Devlin J. Schoop is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Schoop was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1997 and clerked for a U.S. District Court Judge for two years before entering private practice. Judge Schoop was appointed to the bench in 2015 and is dedicated to the law and to the legal profession. Judge Schoop is hardworking and well regarded for his knowledge of the law, extensive legal experience, and skills.

ARTHUR WESLEY WILLIS - NOT RECOMMENDED

Arthur Wesley Willis 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.

3rd Subcircuit

Delehanty Vacancy

PATRICK STANTON - QUALIFIED

Patrick Stanton is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Stanton was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993 and clerked for a federal judge for one year. Since 1996, Mr. Stanton has worked at a national law firm handling a variety of commercial litigation cases. Mr. Stanton possesses a fine temperament and demeanor and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, punctuality and diligence.

MICHAEL HAYES - NOT RECOMMENDED

Michael Hayes 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.

KEVIN PATRICK CUNNINGHAM - QUALIFIED

Kevin Patrick Cunningham is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Cunningham was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1992 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in criminal, real estate and personal injury matters. Mr. Cunningham served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney until entering private practice in 2001 and since 2007 he has served as prosecutor for the Village of Oak Lawn. Mr. Cunningham has considerable civil and criminal trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law and legal ability.

Bonnie C. McGrath: In her own words

Bonnie C. McGrath is a candidate for the Fabri vacancy in the 8th Subcircuit. Her punch number is 156.

I am a lawyer with an outstanding record of public service, commitment to the law, and a fine temperament--qualities needed to serve the public in a dignified and unbiased manner.

A lawyer for 24 years, I have done just about everything. As a prosecutor for the City of Chicago, I became an expert in vehicle impoundment law, advising lawyers from Michigan who had to argue an impoundment case before the U.S. Supreme Court; appearing on MSNBC to debate the legal issues; and leading discussions on the topic at bar association meetings. I also advised Cook County judges and the Chicago City Council on the subject.

Later, as a general practitioner, I practiced in every division of the Cook County Court. I also completed 30 criminal appeals, nine cases in juvenile court, and have decided hundreds of cases as a chair-qualified arbitrator in Cook County.

I have done hundreds of bench trials. I have also done counseling in family, probate, juvenile arrest, employment, landlord-tenant and bankruptcy law as a pro bono attorney.

I have taught law in various settings to lawyers, law students, college students, paralegal students and high school students. And I have written voluminously about the law.

I won three awards for legal writing from the Chicago Bar Association, and one of my articles has been cited in a law review. I’ve contributed to legal handbooks and I have had regular columns in the Illinois Bar Journal, and the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin. I have been on the Chicago Bar Association editorial board for 26 years. I am also on the CBA Public Affairs Committee.

My bar leadership has been outstanding. I have chaired several CBA Committees--including the Criminal Law and Bench/Bar Relations committees, and I was president of the Decalogue Society of Lawyers. I have participated in scores of bar association projects and panels.

Many of my former law professors, and judges who know me, have referred cases to me dealing with their own friends and family, which is an honor and a vote of confidence concerning my abilities.

I also won the Chicago Bar Association Pro Bono Award for Sole Practitioners, which is NOT an award that you apply for. THEY find YOU! I also started a pro bono civil order of protection desk in Maywood, supervising scores of attorneys, which won an award from the American Bar Association.

I spent 15 years on the John Howard Association Board--a prison watchdog/reform group—and have visited prisons around Illinois and every division of the Cook County Jail numerous times. This has given me insight into the world of incarceration and alternatives to incarceration.

I am also a journalist, which has helped me develop objectivity and lack of bias. I have 24 major journalism awards, proving that I have integrity, objectivity and a lack of bias. I had a regular column in the Chicago Tribune in the 1990s, and was a contributing writer for the Chicago Reader for decades.

Several years ago, I was included in the Today’s Chicago Woman list of “women making a difference.”

I also spent five years in the 1970s as a telephone installer for Illinois Bell and was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 165.

I am a volunteer at the Glessner House Museum and I am on the boards of Art Encounter, Intuit Gallery and Project Onward (for artists with developmental disabilities and mental illness. (My daughter, who is autistic, is an artist there).

I am also on the boards of Cedille Records, a not-for-profit recording company, Friends of Downtown, Picosa Ensemble, and my homeowners association in the South Loop. And I am very involved with the Lyric opera and the League of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

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Click here to return to Organizing the Data: 8th Subcircuit - Fabri Vacancy

Concluding the CBA's evaluations of countywide candidates

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I will get to all of the CBA's ratings in the near future. I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the countywide Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the CBA's findings for candidates seeking the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies can be found here. For the rest of the CBA's evaluations of countywide candidates:

McGinnis Vacancy

BRIAN TERRENCE SEXTON - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Brian Terrence Sexton is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Sexton was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for 30 years before entering private practice. Mr. Sexton has extensive court experience and has tried many complex criminal cases. Mr. Sexton is highly regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal experience, and excellent demeanor.

PETER MICHAEL GONZALEZ - QUALIFIED

Peter Michael Gonzalez is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Gonzalez was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and is a sole practitioner concentrating in criminal defense matters. Mr. Gonzalez has extensive trial and bench experience and possesses the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

BRADLEY TROWBRIDGE - QUALIFIED

Bradley Trowbridge is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Trowbridge was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and for the past 12 years has served as a sole practitioner concentrating in family law. Prior to opening his own law firm, Mr. Trowbridge worked in the field of legal aid and served as an Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago. Mr. Trowbridge has had many bench trials and a small number of jury trials. Mr. Trowbridge is well regarded for his integrity and excellent demeanor and possesses the requisite legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Rooney Vacancy

JACK J. HAGERTY - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Jack J. Hagerty is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Hagerty was admitted to practice law in 1990 and is currently practicing with a large law firm concentrating in complex civil litigation matters in state and federal court. Mr. Hagerty is highly regarded by his colleagues and adversaries for his diligence, knowledge of the law, outstanding temperament, and commitment to community.

MABLE TAYLOR - NOT RECOMMENDED

Mable Taylor is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Ms. Taylor was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and since her admission has been a sole practitioner concentrating in criminal, personal injury, wrongful death, workers’ compensation, probate, election, and family law matters. Ms. Taylor does not possess the requisite legal knowledge to effectively serve as an Associate Judge.

* * * * * *

In addition to these vacancies, there are two countywide vacancies which will be uncontested. In both cases, however, the candidates were evaluated by the Chicago Bar Association. These are the CBA's findings with respect to these two candidates:

Dunford Vacancy

THOMAS F. MCGUIRE - QUALIFIED

Thomas F. McGuire is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. McGuire was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and is a sole practitioner concentrating in criminal defense and transportation law. Mr. McGuire has extensive experience in criminal law and is highly praised for his work ethic, fine temperament, knowledge of the law, and legal ability.

Egan Vacancy

Rosa Marie Silva is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Silva was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is currently serving as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender in the Felony Trial Division. Ms. Silva has had extensive criminal trial experience and possesses the requisite legal knowledge, ability, and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Part 2 of the CBA's findings in countywide judicial races

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I will get to all of the CBA's ratings in the near future. I've already posted the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the countywide Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies; the CBA's findings for candidates seeking Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies follows immediately:

Flanagan Vacancy

AMANDA MOIRA PILLSBURY - QUALIFIED

Amanda Moira Pillsbury is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Pillsbury was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2004 and has served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney since her admission. Ms. Pillsbury is currently assigned to the Felony Trial Division and has extensive jury and bench trial experience. Ms. Pillsbury has a calm demeanor and possesses the legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

PRESTON JONES, JR. - HIGHLY QUALIFIED

Preston Jones, Jr. is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Jones was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and is currently serving as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender assigned to the Homicide Task Force at the Criminal Court. Mr. Jones has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, work ethic, and outstanding temperament.

KEELY PATRICIA HILLISON - QUALIFIED

Keely Patricia Hillison is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Hillison was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1985 and has concentrated her practice in personal injury and insurance defense matters. Ms. Hillison has trial and appellate experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal experience, diligence, and calm demeanor.

IOANA SALAJANU - NOT RECOMMENDED

Ioana Salajanu is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Salajanu was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and is currently practicing law with a small firm concentrating her practice in corporate Law, commercial real estate, and intellectual property matters. Although Ms. Salajanu has been practicing law for 17 years, the scope of her practice and court experience is limited. At this point in her career, Ms. Salajanu does not possess the requisite depth and breadth of legal experience to effectively serve as a judge.

Hartigan Vacancy

CECILIA A. HORAN - QUALIFIED

Cecilia A. Horan is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Horan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1997 and is currently a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson. Ms. Horan has worked with the Hinshaw firm her entire career and concentrates in complex tort litigation and insurance defense matters. Ms. Horan is well versed in the law and has had substantial litigation experience. Ms. Horan is active in the legal profession and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

KEITH L. SPENCE - NOT RECOMMENDED

Keith L. Spence is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Mr. Spence was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1999 and is currently a sole practitioner concentrating in family law, criminal and real estate law. Mr. Spence’s failure to disclose personal litigation along with concerns about his diligence, punctuality, knowledge of the law, and legal ability resulted in a “Not Recommended” finding. Mr. Spence needs to address these concerns.

Jordan Vacancy

CLARE QUISH - QUALIFIED

Judge Clare Quish is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Quish was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in June 2016. Judge Quish served as a law clerk for Justice Mary Jane Theis for 6 ½ years before entering private practice where she handled civil litigation and appeals. Judge Quish has served in the Circuit Court’s Traffic and Municipal Divisions and has efficiently presided over both bench and jury trials. Judge Quish is hardworking, diligent, and well regarded for her knowledge of the law and excellent temperament.

JERRY BARRIDO - QUALIFIED

Jerry Barrido is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Barrido was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1999 and is currently serving as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender in the Juvenile Justice Division. Mr. Barrido has extensive experience in criminal and juvenile law and has tried numerous bench and jury cases. Mr. Barrido is hardworking and well regarded for his knowledge of the law, diligence, and fairness.

PATRICK DANKWA JOHN - NOT RECOMMENDED

Patrick Dankwa John 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.

Chicago Bar Association findings for candidates in countywide races - Part I

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Bar Association has released its ratings for candidates seeking judicial office. The CBA's complete list can be accessed from here (and there's a mobile-friendly link as well).

I will get to all of the CBA's ratings in the near future. These are the CBA's evaluations of candidates for the countywide Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies:

Brewer Vacancy

ORAN F. WHITING - QUALIFIED

Oran F. Whiting is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Whiting was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and is currently a solo practitioner concentrating in insurance defense, commercial litigation, aviation, and healthcare law. Mr. Whiting has vast experience in litigation and transactional work and enjoys a reputation for fairness and compassion.

KATHRYN MALONEY-VAHEY - QUALIFIED

Kathryn Maloney-Vahey is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Maloney-Vahey was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1998 and has served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender for her entire career. Ms. Maloney-Vahey has extensive experience in both criminal and mental health law. Ms. Maloney-Vahey has excellent writing skills and is highly regarded for her outstanding temperament, diligence, legal knowledge and ability.

JOHN MAHER - QUALIFIED

John Maher is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Maher was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993 and is currently serving as Deputy Supervisor, Gang Crimes Unit, at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office. Mr. Maher has extensive jury trial experience and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Clay Vacancy

KATHALEEN THERESA LANAHAN - QUALIFIED

Kathaleen T. Lanahan is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Lanahan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993 and has served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for 23 ½ years. Ms. Lanahan has extensive jury and non-jury trial experience. Ms. Lanahan is well regarded for her work ethic, fine demeanor, fairness, knowledge of the law, and legal ability.

JONATHAN CLARK GREEN - QUALIFIED

Jonathan Clark Green is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Green was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1986 and is currently Senior Counsel in the Federal Civil Rights Litigation Division in the City of Chicago’s Law Department. Mr. Green is well rounded in the law and has had extensive experience in complex legal matters. Mr. Green is hardworking, passionate about the law, and well regarded by his peers and adversaries for his outstanding demeanor, knowledge of the law and legal ability.

MICHAEL I. O’MALLEY - NOT RECOMMENDED

Michael I. O’Malley is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. O’Malley was admitted to practice law in 2005 and has served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for 10 ½ years. Mr. O’Malley is currently assigned to the Civil Division, but has had criminal bench and jury trial experience and experience in handling financial crimes. Mr. O’Malley is a CPA and prior to his admission to the bar worked in the banking industry. Mr. O’Malley is knowledgeable and has good practice experience. The Committee believes that additional practice experience will better prepare him for service as a circuit court judge.

LORI ANN ROPER - NOT RECOMMENDED

Lori A. Roper is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Ms. Roper was admitted to the practice of law in Illinois in 1994. Ms. Roper has a fine demeanor and is a skilled lawyer. However, the candidate failed to disclose a number of creditor lawsuits against her, as well as detailed listings of bench trials.

Dooling Vacancy

ATHANASIOS (TOM) SIANIS - QUALIFIED

Athanasios (Tom) Sianis is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Sianis was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2004 and served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney. Mr. Sianis is currently serving as Director of Enforcement for the Illinois Securities Department. Mr. Sianis has substantial trial and administrative law experience and is well regarded for his legal knowledge, diligence, integrity, and calm demeanor.

TIMOTHY JOHN LEEMING - QUALIFIED

Timothy John Leeming is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Leeming was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1986 and served in private practice until 1988 when he became a Cook County Assistant Public Defender. Mr. Leeming has extensive civil, criminal, and appellate practice experience. Mr. Leeming has tried many complex cases and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, work ethic, legal ability, and calm demeanor.

CORRI DIANE FETMAN - NOT RECOMMENDED

Corri Diane Fetman 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.

Twenty judicial candidates found "Highly Qualified" by the Chicago Bar Association

The Chicago Bar Association today released its evaluations of candidates seeking judicial vacancies in Cook County. The complete evaluations and the pocket Green Guide are both available at this page of the CBA website.

The CBA offers three ratings for candidates seeking election to judicial office, "Highly Qualified," "Qualified," and "Not Recommended." According to the CBA, of the 110 candidates running in this year's primary, 20 are "Highly Qualified" for judicial service, while 56 more were rated "Qualified." Only 93 candidates were screened by the CBA; 16 candidates declined to participate in the CBA's screening process and were automatically found "Not Recommended." An additional candidate was found "Not Recommended" automatically because she was a member of the CBA's Judicial Evaluation Committee when the JEC began its investigative work for candidates running in the March 2018 primary.

The CBA reports that there are 18 judicial candidates on the primary ballot who were evaluated within the last three years, 13 of whom were found "Qualfied" and five of whom were found "Highly Qualified," all of whom have since been appointed to the Circuit Court of Cook County. At the time of their evaluation they were not sitting judges, thus their findings -- which will be reproduced here on FWIW in posts later today -- do not refer to their judicial service.

Of the 20 candidates rated "Highly Qualified" by the CBA, three are running countywide, Preston Jones, Jr., Brian Terrence Sexton, and Jack Hagerty.

The other 17 candidates found "Highly Qualified" by the CBA are running in the subcircuits. These are:

• Adrienne Elaine Davis - 2nd Subcircuit, Laws vacancy
• Toya T. Harvey - 2nd Subcircuit, Rhodes vacancy
• Debra A. Seaton - 2nd Subcircuit, Willis vacancy
• David Navarro - 4th Subcircuit, Davy vacancy
• Caroline Jamieson Golden - 4th Subcircuit, Davy vacancy
• John O'Meara - 4th Subcircuit, Riley vacancy
• Robert F. Harris - 5th Subcircuit, Washington II vacancy
• Kent Delgado - 6th Subcircuit, Chevere vacancy
• James 'Jamie" Shapiro - 8th Subcircuit, Fabri vacancy
• Gerald Cleary - 10th Subcircuit, Suriano vacancy
• Scott J. Frankel - 11th Subcircuit, Kennedy vacancy
• Joel Chupack - 12th Subcircuit, Maki vacancy
• Michael Gerber - 13th Subcircuit, Lawrence vacancy
• Samuel J. Betar III - 13th Subcircuit, O'Donnell vacancy
• Marina Ammendola - 14th Subcircuit, Garcia vacancy
• Michael B. Barrett - 15th Subcircuit, Scully, Jr. vacancy
• Karla Marie Fiaoni - 15th Subcircuit, Zelezinski vacancy

Hon. Sandra R. Otaka Judicial Reception set for March 7

Nixon Peabody, in partnership with the Asian American Bar Association of Greater Chicago (AABA Chicago), the Chinese American Bar Association of Chicago (CABA), the Filipino American Lawyers Association of Chicago (FALA), the Japanese Bar Association of Chicago (JABA), and the Korean American Bar Association of Chicago (KABA), will host a judicial reception on Wednesday, March 7, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., in Nixon Peabody's Chicago office, 70 W. Madison. Welcome remarks will be offered by Cook County Circuit Court Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans at 6:00 p.m.

Event sponsors note that the reception celebrates the memory of the late Sandra R. Otaka, the first Asian American appointed to, and later elected to, the Cook County circuit bench, and her tireless advocacy to increase diversity in the judiciary as well as the need to promote Asian Americans to serve as elected officials locally, statewide, and/or nationally.

All are welcome to attend this event. Early-bird tickets (obtained before March 2) are $75 each. After that, tickets will cost $100 apiece. However, AABA, CABA, FALA, and KABA members will be admitted for a discounted price of $50 apiece. Judges and other elected officials will be admitted free. All attendees must register for the event at this webpage.

March 13 Pre-Election Fundraiser and Rally for Athena Farmakis

Supporters of 8th Subcircuit candidate Athena Farmakis have scheduled a Pre-Election Fundraiser and Rally for Tuesday, March 13, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Rosebud Prime, One S. Dearborn.

Tickets for the event are $125 apiece, but sponsorships are available (Silver - $250, Gold - $500, Platinum - $1,000, Chairman - $2,500). For more information, or to reserve tickets, email info@athenaforjudge.com.

Farmakis is also profiled in the current issue of Chicago magazine ("How Athena Framakis Went From Luvabull to Judicial Candidate"). According to Shia Kapos's article, Farmakis "credits the discipline she learned as a Luvabulls dancer, in part, for her success in the courtroom."

Chicago Council of Lawyers issues findings for candidates in Subcircuits 13, 14, and 15

Updated March 1 to reflect changes in CCL's report.

As reported earlier today, the Chicago Council of Lawyers released its evaluations of judicial candidates for the upcoming primary.

I've already published posts showing the CCL's evaluations of candidates for the countywide Brewer, Clay, and Dooling vacancies (click here); for the Flanagan, Hartigan, and Jordan vacancies (click here); and for all other countywide candidate candidates (click here).

For CCL findings of candidates seeking vacancies in Subcircuits 1, 2 and 3 click here; for CCL evaluations of candidates in Subcircuits 4, 5, and 6, click here. Council evaluations of candidates in Subcircuits 8, 10, 11, and 12 can be found at this link.

The Council's evaluations of candidates for vacancies in the 13th, 14th, and 15th Subcircuits follow immediately:

13th Subcircuit

Crane Vacancy

Republican Candidates

Gary W. Seyring -- Qualified

Gary W. Seyring was admitted to practice in 1978. He is also a Certified Public Accountant. He is a solo practitioner focusing on domestic relations, real estate, estate planning, tax planning, and business law. A substantial percentage of Mr. Seyring’s practice involves litigation. He is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Susanne Groebner – Qualified

Susanne Groebner was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2000. Since 2001, she has worked as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, where she currently works in the Felony Trial Division in Rolling Meadows, IL (2013-present). She previously served in the Felony Trial Division in Chicago (2008-2013); in the Felony Review, Preliminary Hearings, and Grand Jury Units (2004-2008); in the Juvenile Division (Abuse and Neglect/Delinquency, 2001-2004); and in the Child Support Division (2001).

Ms. Groebner is considered to have good legal ability. Respondents to this evaluation say that she has good litigation skills and that she is an honest and fair prosecutor. She has substantial litigation experience in more complex matters. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Democratic Candidate

Ketki Shroff Steffen -- Qualified

Ketki Shroff Steffen was admitted to practice in 1991. She was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2015 and served until December 2016. She was a career Assistant State’s Attorney for Cook County. She reports being lead counsel in 30 trials that have gone to a jury verdict and over 500 that have gone to a bench verdict. She has litigated 13 cases on appeal. Ms. Steffen is reported to have good legal ability and temperament. She enjoys a reputation as a trusted and experienced criminal law litigator. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Lawrence Vacancy

Republican Candidates

Daniel P. Fitzgerald – Qualified

Daniel P. Fitzgerald was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1991. Since 2005, he has worked as a litigation attorney for the Walgreen Company, where he currently serves as Senior Counsel. He focuses on health care litigation but has also handled employment law and environmental law cases. Previously, he was Chief Legal Counsel and Chief of the Bureau of Administrative Litigation of the Office of the Inspector General, Illinois Department of Health Care and Family Services (2002-2005); General Counsel to the Illinois Racing Board (1999-2002); Assistant State’s Attorney in the Illinois Attorney General’s Office (1993-1999); and Judicial Law Clerk in the Cook County Circuit Court, Chancery Division (1991-1993).

Mr. Fitzgerald is considered to have good legal ability with a wide range of litigation and other legal experience. He has handled complex litigation on his own and as a supervisor of outside counsel. His is reported to possess a good temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Hon. Michael P. Gerber – Qualified

Hon. Michael P. Gerber was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1980. He was appointed to the bench as a Circuit Judge by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2016. He presides over criminal misdemeanors, felony preliminary hearings, and traffic matters. Previously, he worked as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County, where he prosecuted criminal matters (1984-2016); an Assistant Public Defender in Cook County (1981-1984), where he handled motions and trials and, during his last 18 months there, felony preliminary hearings; and as an associate for Martin S. Gerber (1980-1981), where he handled civil municipal and misdemeanor cases in the Circuit Court of Cook County.

As a lawyer, Judge Gerber was considered to be an outstanding practitioner with very good legal ability and temperament. He was respected for his litigation skills and he had substantial litigation experience in more complex matters. He is reported to be exceptionally knowledgeable. As a judge he is reported to be handling a high volume call with efficiency and fairness. On the basis of this 2017 evaluation the Council would have found Judge Gerber to be Well Qualified.

However, subsequent to the evaluation the Council conducted in 2017, the Council notes that a post conviction judge vacated a murder case conviction that then Mr. Gerber had prosecuted many years earlier. In vacating the conviction, the judge stated in regard to Mr. Gerber, as the prosecutor, that he had made “factually false arguments to the jury” about a key piece of evidence. The judge further stated,

"This Court cannot say the prosecutor's improper remarks did not contribute to petitioner's conviction; a jury could have reached a contrary verdict had the improper remarks not been made. * * * Indeed, such statements amounted to a purposeful due process violation that led to petitioner's conviction. As such, petitioner was prejudiced by appellate counsel's failure to raise this claim."

The defendant was exonerated. The Council considers these findings to be exceptionally serious. However, the Council also must consider the totality of Judge Gerber’s well-respected career. In a close call, the Council finds Judge Gerber to be Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Democratic Candidate

Shannon P. O’Malley – Not Recommended

Shannon P. O’Malley did not participate in the evaluation process. The Council finds her Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

O'Donnell Vacancy

Republican Candidate

Alice Christine Svenson – Qualified

Alice Christine Svenson was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1995. She is the Principal at Svenson Law Offices, where she focuses on family law, federal and state election law, and employment law. Previously, she handled workers compensation cases at Stone and Johnson (Associate and Partner, 1998-2008) and at Ridge and Downes (Associate, 1995-1998). She has participated in serval bar associations including the Republican National Lawyers Association, where she served on the Board of Governors and as the Finance Chair and the Illinois State Chapter Chair. She has provided pro bono legal services to divorced fathers through the organization Fathers Helping Fathers.

Ms. Svenson has a variety of legal experiences, including litigation experience in workers compensation cases and domestic relations matters. She has relatively little recent trial experience, although she maintains a motion practice. Respondents say she has demonstrative good litigation skills and she is reported to have a good temperament. There have been a few client complaints concerning her diligence, but on balance, she appears to be a good practitioner. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Democratic Candidate

Hon. Samuel J. Betar, III – Qualified

Hon. Samuel J. Betar, III was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1983. Since 2012, he has served as an Associate Judge assigned to the Third Municipal District, where he handles traffic, criminal, domestic violence, housing, civil and parentage matters. He was appointed as a Circuit Judge by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2017. His previous assignments include Domestic Relations, Third Municipal District (2003-2012), Post Judgment Collections, First Municipal District (1999-2003), and First Municipal District, Housing Court (1999). He was also an Associate at Arnold and Kadjan, where he handled labor law and litigation (1991-1998); an Associate at Kamensky and Rubinstein, where he handled commercial litigation (1986-1991), and an Associate at the Botti Law Firm (1983-1986). He is a member of several bar associations, including the Northwest Suburban bar association, where he has Co-Chaired the Matrimonial Law Committee.

Lawyers appearing before Judge Betar consider him to have good legal ability and to have good temperament. He is praised for his ability to manage a large call and for his patience and communication skills with litigants and lawyers. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

14th Subcircuit

Garcia Vacancy

Hon. Marina E. Ammendola – Qualified

Judge Marina E. Ammendola was admitted to practice in 1989 and was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2017. She has been a sole practitioner since 2001, focusing on tort litigation matters. She also serves as a Guardian ad Litem.

Judge Ammendola is considered to have good legal ability and is widely praised for her litigation skills and for her temperament. She has substantial litigation experience in more complex matters. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Beatriz A. Frausto-Sandoval – Not Qualified

Beatriz A. Frausto-Sandoval was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2005. Since 2011, she has been a Solo Practitioner at the Law Office of Beatriz A. Frausto-Sandoval, where she focuses on immigration law and related matters. She has also worked as a full-time Contract Attorney at Hudson Legal (2011-2012), where she handled document review in contract litigation cases and an Associate with a focus on immigration law at both Hughes Socol Piers Resnik and Dym, Ltd. (2006-2011) and the Law Office of Scott. E. Bellgrau in Bensenville, IL (2005-2006).

Ms. Frausto-Sandoval specializes in immigration law and is praised for her knowledge of that area of law. She is reported to have good temperament. The Council is concerned, however, with the depth and breadth of her practice. She has been a lawyer since 2005 and focuses almost exclusively on immigration work, which does not include state court practice. The Council finds her Not Qualified for the Circuit Court of Cook County.

15th Subcircuit

Scully, Jr. Vacancy

Ashonta Rice-Akiwowo – Not Qualified

Ashonta Rice-Akiwowo was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2005. She immediately began as a Cook County Assistant Public Guardian. There, she represented minors in abuse proceedings. In 2007, she started a solo practice specializing in Family law.

Ms. Rice-Akiwowo enjoys a reputation of being a smart and knowledgeable practitioner. She is praised for her temperament which is often described as respectful and professional. She reports a significant number of trials. The Council is concerned, however, because of the combination of depth and breadth of her experience, particularly in light of the relatively few years she has been a lawyer. The Council finds her Not Qualified for the Circuit Court at this time.

Michael Brendan Barrett - Qualified

Michael Brendan Barrett was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1991. Since 1992, he has worked for Barrett & Sramek, where he is a partner focusing on personal injury, probate and estate planning, and worker’s compensation cases. He previously worked as an associate at Moss & Hillison (1991-1992). Mr. Barrett provides pro bono legal services to not-for-profit youth sports organizations, including Vikings Youth Hockey, Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois, Illinois Hockey Officials’ Association, and Chicago Fury Youth Hockey. He has held bar association offices and committee memberships including president of the Southwest Bar Association; judicial evaluations investigator and member of the Tort Law Section Council for the Illinois Bar Association; judicial evaluations investigator for the Chicago Bar Association; and vice chairman of the Judicial Screening Committee for the Coalition of Suburban Bar Associations.

Mr. Barrett is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. He is knowledgeable and is reported to have good trial skills. He has substantial litigation experience is well-respected as a practitioner. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Zelezinski Vacancy

Republican Candidate

Karla Marie Fiaoni—Qualified

Karla Marie Fiaoni was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1989. Since 2001, she has been the Sole Practitioner and Owner of the Law Office of Karla Marie Fiaoni in Homewood, IL. Her legal practice is focused on criminal defense, family law, and Secretary of State Administration hearings. She has previously served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Cook County State’s Attorney Office (1989-1994), the Chief of Police of the City of Chicago Heights, IL (1994-1996), and Project Director of the Domestic Violence Unit of the City of Chicago Heights. She is a Member and Past President of two bar associations: the Women’s Criminal Defense Bar Association and the South Suburban Bar Association.

Ms. Fiaoni is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. She has a variety of legal experiences. She is respected as a solid lawyer who cares about her clients and who is a zealous advocate for them. Ms. Fiaoni has a range of experience which translates well into what is needed for her to be a good judge. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Democratic Candidates

Hon. Anthony Swanagan – Qualified

Hon. Anthony Swanagan was admitted to practice in 1987, and was appointed to the Circuit Court by the Illinois Supreme Court in April 2017. Before taking the bench Judge Swanagan had served as a career clerk to U.S. District Court Judge Andrea R. Wood of the U.S. District Court. He has also clerked for Justice William White in the Illinois Appellate Court, and for Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman of the U.S. federal court. Earlier in his career, Judge Swanagan was a litigator in civil matters with Jones, Ware & Grenard and served as corporate counsel for Galileo International, Inc.

Judge Swanagan is considered to have good legal ability. As a lawyer, he had litigation experience earlier in his career, and is widely praised for his writing skills and analytic thinking as a law clerk in both the state and federal courts. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Scott Darrell McKenna -- Qualified

Scott Darrell McKenna was admitted to practice in 1996. Mr. McKenna is currently a partner at Best, Vanderlaan & Harrington. He is the principal trial attorney for a caseload of approximately 175 civil cases. He also is responsible for interviewing and hiring attorneys, mentoring attorneys, reviewing client bills and management of the firm. From 1997 to 2000, Mr. McKenna was an associate at Richard B. Bogich & Associates (now known as Winters Salzetta O’Brien & Richardson). He handled plaintiff personal injury matters at both the trial and appellate levels.

Mr. McKenna is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. His career includes law firm management and extensive experience as a litigator in civil matters. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.