Maureen Masterson-Pulia: In her own words

Maureen Masterson-Pulia is a Republican candidate for the Shultz vacancy in the 4th Judicial Subcircuit.

I was born and raised in the 4th Subcircuit of Cook County, and still reside here with my family. I graduated from De Paul University with a B.S. degree in Computer Science and began a 13 year career in the healthcare field. In 1985 I was elected Village Clerk in the Village of Westchester, IL. As Village Clerk I drafted and submitted an application to the Illinois Commerce Commission for an Enhanced 9-1-1 system for the Village of Westchester. Approval for that system was received while I was serving as Trustee for Village of Westchester. In 1989 I was elected Village Trustee of the Village of Westchester. As Trustee I was Chair of the Water, Sewer and General Village Affairs Committee; proposed, negotiated and implemented comprehensive waste-recovery programs including a Village-wide curbside recycling program and yard waste disposal program; proposed, negotiated and implemented the first Enhanced 9-1-1 Communications System in the Western Suburbs; and, received the Administrator’s Award for Contributions to Environmental Improvement of Municipal Solid Waste through Recycling from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

In addition to my civic duty I have been very active within my community. These activities include being a Committee Member for the West Suburban Bar Fashion Show that benefited the Loyola Mobile Medical Unit, and Children’s Room Sponsored by Loyola & Maybrook Courthouse; a volunteer at the Jimmy Cancer Fund Golf Outing in Bradenton FL; a concession/entrance volunteer at St. Alexander’s School during the Volleyball/Basketball seasons; a volunteer for the Willow Springs Cops & Kids bike safety and ride; a manager for Westchester Girls Softball League; a member of the Divine Infant and Divine Providence Social Clubs; and, a cantor at Divine Infant Parish.

In March of 1997 I accepted a position as a Sr. Public Service Administrator (Staff Attorney) for the Appellate Level of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. As a Sr. Public Administrator I would perform legal work involving drafting of rules and procedural memoranda; supervise legal staff engaged in research and analysis; draft and finalize the Commissioners’ written decision of the appealed cases; provide orientation and training to new staff attorneys in the substantive and procedural law relevant to the Agency; prepare drafts and finalization of complex and priority decisions; and, answer inquires regarding case status from claimants and their representatives.

In August of 2003 I was appointed an Arbitrator (Administrative Law Judge) for the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. I serve in this capacity today. In this capacity I manage a docket of approximately 5000 cases. I have presided over 400 hearings/trials and issued written decisions for each. Of the decisions I have issued only about 1% of them have been modified on review. I have also approved over 4700 settlement contracts and conducted over 400 pre-trial hearings. Many of these cases have been of a complex nature. My duties often parallel those of a Cook County Circuit Court Judge in a civil matter. The proceedings I preside over are governed by the Illinois common law rules of evidence as well as the Illinois Evidence Act [820 ILCS]. Witnesses testify and evidence is admitted in accordance with these rules.

Having had an opportunity to serve in a judicial capacity for the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission for over 4 years I have been given the unique opportunity to not only develop a judicial philosophy, but to live and learn from it every day. I believe the judiciary must be independent. I believe judges must interpret the law as written in the Constitution, statutes and case law, rather than deciding to write it themselves. As a trial judge, it is my job, based on the record, to determine the facts of the case, research the law, apply the law to the facts, and issue decisions that are based on a well-reasoned interpretation of the law within a reasonable time. I also believe it is imperative that all litigants know that their cases will be decided on what is right and just, and not based on public opinion or on the clamor of partisan politics. I am a strong advocate of direct communication in the courtroom. I believe it is imperative to set realistic and expeditious time tables for all cases in order to eliminate frivolous, as well as protracted and expensive litigation. I believe that the judge, as well as the litigants should be full prepared for any hearing/trial.

I have been endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, Illinois Committee for Better Government and Republican Organization of Lyons Township.

Last and final Alliance grid update

The new grid arrived yesterday, attached to an email from Joyce Williams of the ISBA.

I repeat herewith the entire text of Ms. Williams' email: "Finally!"

I believe that I detected notes of both relief and triumph in that very brief message. Putting the grid together is a mammoth project. Getting the data to put the grid together is likewise an enormous project, involving a large number of volunteers who had to do their work in a very compressed span of time this primary season.

The additions on this grid will be worked into the "Organizing the Data" posts I've been putting up as soon as time permits; I was able to use this latest grid for the "organizing" posts I put up last night.

Herewith the latest and greatest Alliance grid. If you're new to this site, please note: You can click on any page to enlarge it to legible size.

7th Subcircuit -- Young vacancy: Organizing the data

107 -- Anita Rivkin-Carothers

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Anita Rivkin-Carothers is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Rivkin-Carothers was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1985. She has extensive trial experience and maintains an active trial practice involving difficult cases. She has an excellent temperament and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Well Qualified (evaluated for a 2006 judicial vacancy. She has been appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to fill a judicial vacancy)

Anita Rivkin-Carothers was admitted to practice law in 1985. She is in private practice, handling cases in both state and federal court. She is considered to have very good legal ability with a wide range of legal experience in complex matters. She has an excellent demeanor and she is widely praised as being a hard-working and zealous advocate for her clients. The Council finds her Well Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

Chicago Federation of Labor

Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local 2

Italian American Political Coalition

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

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108 -- Melanie Rose Nuby

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Melanie Rose Nuby is "Not Recommended" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Nuby was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and currently serves as an Assistant Public Defender in the Juvenile Justice Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Ms. Nuby is deeply committed to her work and is well regarded for her integrity and fine temperament. However, at this stage of her career, she does not possess the depth and breadth of legal experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Melanie Rose Nuby has been a lawyer since 1994. She is a career Cook County Assistant Public Defender. She is considered to be a knowledgeable and diligent defense counsel with a professional demeanor. She has substantial bench and jury trial experience in a variety of criminal law areas. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Recommended

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109 -- Kevin Kenneth Pechous

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Kevin K. Pechous has been a lawyer since 1990. Since 1999 he has been a sole practitioner doing criminal defense work and appeals. From 1991 to 1999 he served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney. Mr. Pechous is considered to have good legal ability, has substantial trial experience, and is generally considered a good lawyer. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

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110 -- David H. Latham

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

David H. Latham is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Latham was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1988 and has extensive trial experience. Mr. Latham is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability and integrity.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

David H. Latham has been a lawyer since 1988. He is currently a sole practitioner concentrating on commercial litigation. From 1988 to 1997, he concentrated on commercial litigation as an Associate at the law firm of Altheimer & Gray. Lawyers report that Mr. Latham has strong litigation skills and is well-prepared. He has a good temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

IVI-IPO

Personal PAC

Italian American Political Coalition

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111 -- T. Lee Boyd Jr.

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Turnley Lee Boyd, Jr. is “Not Recommended” for the office of Associate Judge. Mr. Boyd was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1973. Although the candidate has excellent litigation experience, both federal and civil, his numerous scuffles with the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (ARDC) raised major concern for 50% of the panel. Especially the earlier censure and the fact that an ARDC complaint was actually pending when he applied. Now that ARDC is dismissed, but a lawsuit has recently been filed and is just beginning. Details and deadlines in managing his docket appear to be a problem for the candidate.

The CBA explains in a footnote that, pursuant to Section 27.4 of the JEC Resolutions and Procedures, a candidate who has been evaluated and found "NOT RECOMMENDED" for the office of Associate Judge and who shall within two years of such a finding be a candidate for Circuit Judge shall be found "NOT RECOMMENDED" without hearing.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Turnley Boyd has practiced law since 1973. He has been a solo practitioner handling criminal cases since 1980. He spent 1975 to 1979 as an associate at Evins Pincham Fowlkes & Cooper and his first two years in practice were as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney. He has served as Village Prosecutor and Administrative Hearing Officer for University Park since 1991 and has been an Administrative Hearing Officer for Chicago since 2005. Mr. Boyd is reported to have a good temperament and has had substantial litigation experience. The Council is concerned, however, that Mr. Boyd has been a defendant in more than 17 state and federal court actions, most of which were not disclosed in the evaluation materials that he submitted to the Alliance of Bar Associations for Judicial Screening. These cases include actions in Bankruptcy Court, and the Law Division, the Chancery Division, and the Municipal Division in Cook County. By not disclosing these actions, Mr. Boyd has placed into serious question his credibility as a judicial candidate. In addition, Mr. Boyd has received a Censure as part of disciplinary action taken against him by the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission. The Council finds him Not Qualified to serve in the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Back to sample ballot page

6th Subcircuit -- Figueroa vacany: Organizing the data

107 -- Mary Katherine M. Moore

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Mary Katherine M. Moore is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Moore was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1986. Ms. Moore serves as an Assistant State's Attorney and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law and administrative skills. Since 2003, Ms. Moore has served as a supervisor for the Assistant State’s Attorneys in Suburban Court Districts 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Ms. Moore is involved in community service and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Mary Katherine Margaret Moore has been a lawyer since 1986. She is a career Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, currently serving as the Chief of the Municipal Division. She has also served as a Felony Trial Supervisor and a Supervisor in the First Municipal Division. She is a member of the State’s Attorney’s Office Training Committee, which now includes a segment on Diversity Awareness Training for new prosecutors. Lawyers report that Ms. Moore has very good legal ability and an excellent temperament. She is considered to be a highly skilled prosecutor who is also praised for her supervisory skills. The Council finds her Well
Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Highly Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

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108 -- Stuart M. Brody

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Stuart M. Brody is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Brody was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Stuart M. Brody has been a lawyer since 1990. He has been in private practice his entire career, specializing in civil litigation. He has substantial bench and jury trial experience in civil matters. He is considered to have good legal ability and is praised for his temperament. Practitioners consider Mr. Brody to be a very good attorney who is both zealous and fair in the representation of his clients. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

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109 -- Laura Bertucci Smith

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Laura Bertucci Smith is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Smith was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1991. She is a bright, conscientious, and talented lawyer. Ms. Bertucci’s experience, combined with her fine demeanor, qualify her to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Qualified (Evaluated for the 2002 Primary Election)

Laura Bertucci Smith was admitted to practice in 1991 and has been an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney her entire legal career. She is currently a First Chair in the Felony Trial Division of that office. She has tried over 300 bench trials to verdict and approximately 20 jury trials in her career. The candidate served as first chair in 11 of the 20 felony jury trials. Lawyers comment positively on her performance. While she has been an attorney for little more than ten years [as of her evaluation in 2002], her experience and the information gathered during the Alliance investigation confirm that Ms. Smith is Qualified to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Highly Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Federation of Labor

Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local 2

Personal PAC

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

Italian American Political Coalition

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110 -- Nancy Hallihan Horodecki

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Nancy Hallihan Horodecki did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7

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111 -- Mauricio Araujo

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Mauricio Araujo is "Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Araujo was admitted to
practice law in Illinois in 1993 and is well regarded for his integrity and outstanding temperament. He has handled a number of civil jury trials and possesses the legal knowledge and ability to serve as a Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Araujo is a past president of the Puerto Rican Bar Association and is involved in pro bono and community service projects.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Mr. Araujo was admitted to practice in 1993. He has worked in private practice since 1997, mainly doing personal injury insurance defense work. Between 1994 and 1997, he primarily handled workers' compensation cases for the Illinois Attorney General's Office and for the Chicago Housing Authority. He also worked for a little over one year doing workers' compensation cases while employed by a private firm. Mr. Araujo is considered to have an excellent temperament and is praised for his integrity. He has provided extensive community service. The Council in its last evaluation of Mr. Araujo was concerned about the relative narrowness of his practice. The Council has re-evaluated his credentials for the 2008 judicial primary. He has in the last two years added substantial litigation experience and he continues to be praised for his ability and diligence as a practitioner. Under these circumstances, the Council finds Mr. Araujo Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Sun-Times

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

Back to sample ballot page

12th Subcircuit -- Devlin vacancy: Organizing the data

Democratic Candidates

107 -- Thomas R. Mulroy

Thomas R. Mulroy: In his own words

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Thomas R. Mulroy is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Mulroy was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1973 and has extensive experience in both civil and criminal law. Mr. Mulroy is an accomplished lawyer and has written and lectured extensively in the areas of trial practice and procedure. Mr. Mulroy is uniformly well regarded for his integrity, legal knowledge, trial skills, and outstanding demeanor.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Well Qualified (evaluated to fill a judicial vacancy in 2006. He was appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to fill a judicial vacancy)

Thomas R. Mulroy has practiced law since 1973. Since 2003, he has been Chairman of the Litigation Committee at McGuire Woods. For two years before that, he was a partner at Mulroy Scandaglia Marrinson & Ryan. From 1976 until 2001, he was at Jenner & Block. He spent 1972 to 1976 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Mr. Mulroy is considered to have excellent legal ability and temperament. He is involved in community service activities and has published articles. The Council is concerned that he provided little attention to the evaluation materials he supplied to the Alliance of Bar Associations for Judicial Screening. On balance, however, the Council finds him Well Qualified.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

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108 -- Michael John Halloran

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Michael John Halloran is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Halloran was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and has served as an Assistant Public Defender for over 20 years. Mr. Halloran is well respected by all and has extensive trial experience. Mr. Halloran possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Michael J. Halloran has been a lawyer since 1986. He is a career Cook County Assistant Public Defender. Mr. Halloran is considered to be a good lawyer who is a zealous, but fair advocate for his clients. He has a good temperament and substantial bench and jury trial experience. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor

Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local 2

IVI-IPO

Italian American Political Coalition
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109 -- Pamela Elizabeth Loza

Candidate Website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pamela E. Loza is “Qualified’ for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Loza was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1978. Ms. Loza is a sole practitioner who handles her family practice well and efficiently. She has both civil and criminal trial experience. She is bilingual and knowledgeable about diverse communities and practice issues. She is smart and organized and capable of handling any cases presented to her.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Pamela E. Loza has been a lawyer since 1977. She is currently a sole practitioner specializing in family and criminal defense law. From 1984 to 2003, she handled similar cases as a lawyer in the firm of Cameron, Loza & Associates. From 1978 to 1981, she did appellate work as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney. Lawyers report that she has good legal ability and that she is a zealous, but fair advocate for her clients. She has substantial litigation experience. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Evaluated

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

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110 -- Thomas Flannigan

Thomas Flannigan: In his own words

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Thomas Flannigan is "Not Recommended" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Flannigan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and has had limited practice experience in the areas of copyright and domestic relations. Mr. Flannigan does not possess the requisite depth and breadth of legal experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Thomas Flannigan has been a lawyer since 1983. After clerking with Illinois Supreme Court Justice William Clark, he served as an attorney with the firms of Arvey Hodes and Freeborn & Peters, concentrating on international business transactions and litigation. He worked as an attorney in Japan in 1988 and between 1991 and 1992. Since 1990, he has been a sole practitioner focusing on civil litigation, intellectual property matters, and estate planning. He has had a limited number of cases go to trial but has been involved in other aspects of complex civil litigation matters. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

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Republican Candidates

72 -- Laura J. Morask

Laura J. Morask: In her own words

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Laura J. Morask is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Morask was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and is a highly skilled and experienced supervisor in the Cook County State's Attorney's office. Ms. Morask possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Laura J. Morask did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Sun-Times

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

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73 -- Michaela Nolan Ryan

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Michela Nolan Ryan did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Back to sample ballot page

Illinois Civil Justice League makes four endorsements in Cook County judicial races

From IllinoisJudges.net:

The Illinois Civil Justice League, through JUSTPAC, the ICJL’s political action committee, has endorsed the following candidates for circuit court vacancies in the February 5 primary election.

The ICJL and JUSTPAC intend to endorse additional candidates in the 2008 General Election and candidates who are unopposed in the primary were not evaluated for this first endorsement.

All candidates for judicial office in Illinois were invited – twice – to respond to the Illinois Civil Justice League’s candidate questionnaire and to provide additional information about themselves and their qualifications.

Only candidates who responded were considered for endorsement. All the information provided by the candidates, including their response to the ICJL questionnaire, is available on IllinoisJudges.net. Information about the candidates may be found by following the links to their pages on IllinoisJudges.net.

Here are the ICJL endorsements; I've linked the candidate's names to their respective pages on IllinoisJudges.net.





For Cook County Circuit Court (Montelione Vacancy):
Debra Walker (Democrat)









For Cook County Circuit Court (Nowicki Vacancy):
Michael B. Hyman (Democrat)












For 10th Subcircuit (Cook County – Pucinski Vacancy):
Eileen O’Neill Burke (Democrat)











For 13th Subcircuit (Cook County - Republican Nomination):
Margarita Kulys Hoffman







Allen Adomite, Director of Government Relations of the Illinois Civil Justice League, has been coordinating the statewide IllinoisJudges.net project.

Illinois Committee for Honest Government makes judicial endorsements

The Illinois Committee for Honest Government has announced its endorsements for the 2008 Primary.

That's a link to the Committee's website in the paragraph above -- but there's nothing there. I received an endorsement list and a press release today by email from Randall Sherman, the Secretary-Treasurer of the group.

The Committee announced endorsements in many races around the State from United States Senator to Chicago Ward Committeeman in both the Republican and Democratic primaries. The Committee did endorse Frank Avila for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. I can't provide a membership list for the Committee, but I believe, based on researching the Committee today in the Illinois Newspapers database on Westlaw, that Mr. Avila's son, lawyer Frank B. Avila, is involved with the Committee.

According to the press release, "The Illinois Committee for Honest Government was founded in 1986, to support election reforms and to promote increased responsiveness in all levels and branches of government. The ICHG has been producing Cable-TV programs on the Chicago Access Network since October 1990 to help facilitate those goals and to provide opportunities for candidates and elected officials to be heard and seen by the voters." If anyone has additional information about the Committee or its make-up, feel free to leave a comment on this post.

In any event, herewith the endorsements of the Illinois Committee for Honest Government in Cook County Circuit Court contests:

Countywide vacancies

Dennis J. Burke (Disko vacancy)
Jesse G. Reyes (Glowacki vacancy)
Maureen Ward Kirby (Healy vacancy)
Marilyn F. Johnson (Keehan vacancy)
Thomas J. Byrne (Lott vacancy)
Thaddeus L. Wilson (Montelione vacancy)
Paula M. Lingo (Murphy vacancy)
Michael B. Hyman (Nowicki vacancy)
Joan Powell (Thomas vacancy)

Democratic Subcircuit endorsements

Laguina Clay-Clark (1st, Turkington vacancy)
William Edward Gomolinski (4th, Shultz vacancy)
Jackie Marie Portman (5th, Bush vacancy)
Stephen Stern (5th, “A” vacancy)
Maurico Araujo (6th, Figueroa vacancy)
Anita Rivkin-Carothers (7th, Young vacancy)
James A. Shapiro (8th, Sheehan vacancy)
Stephen F. Sidlowski (10th, Kowalski vacancy)
Diana L. Kenworthy (10th, Morrissey vacancy)
Joan Ellen Smuda (10th, Pucinski vacancy)
Pamela Elizabeth Loza (12th, Devlin vacancy)
Ann Catherine Brady (13th, Ryan vacancy)
Gary G. Stanton (13th, Tobin vacancy)
Michael Emmett McGinnis (15th, "A" vacancy)

Republican Subcircuit endorsements

Maureen H. Masterson-Pulia (4th, Shultz vacancy)
Laura J. Morask (12th, Devlin vacancy)
Guy M. Karm (13th, Ryan vacancy)
Cary J. Collins (13th, Tobin vacancy)
Peter Fera (15th, “A” vacancy)

Endorsements announced by the Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

According to its website, the "Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois (JPAI) is a non-partisan organization committed to electing candidates in Illinois on the federal, state and local level who meet a combination of the subsequent criteria: 1) are a friend to the Jewish community in Illinois and throughout the world; 2) embody the Jewish tradition of 'tikkun olam' or repairing the world through social action; 3) are deemed the candidate best outfitted for the office they seek.

"JPAI aims to further empower the Illinois Jewish community by encouraging active participation in the political process."

The JPAI has made endorsements in a number of contested races, in both the Republican and Democratic primaries, for a number of offices from U.S. Senator to a number of Ward Committeeman races in the City of Chicago. These are the JPAI endorsements in Circuit Court races:

Gerald Patrick Cleary: Judge (Cook - 10th Subcircuit - Kowalski Vacancy) (D)
Rosaire Marie Hall: Judge (Cook - 10th Subcircuit - Morrissey Vacancy) (D)
Kenneth L. Fletcher: Judge (Cook - 10th Subcircuit - Pucinski Vacancy) (D)

Thomas R. Mulroy: Judge (Cook - 12th Subcircuit - Devlin Vacancy) (D)
Laura J. Morask: Judge (Cook - 12th Subcircuit - Devlin Vacancy) (R)

Ann Catherine Brady: Judge (Cook - 13th Subcircuit - Ryan Vacancy) (D)
Paul S. Pavlus: Judge (Cook - 13th Subcircuit - Ryan Vacancy) (R)
Gary G. Stanton: Judge (Cook - 13th Subcircuit - Tobin Vacancy) (D)
Cary J. Collins: Judge (Cook - 13th Subcircuit - Tobin Vacancy) (R)

Mary Louise Ryan Norwell: Judge (Cook - 15th Subcircuit - A Vacancy) (D)
Peter Fera: Judge (Cook - 15th Subcircuit - A Vacancy) (R)

Stephen Stern: Judge (Cook - 5th Subcircuit - A Vacancy) (D)
Furmin D. Sessoms: Judge (Cook - 5th Subcircuit - Bush Vacancy) (D)

Mauricio Araujo: Judge (Cook - 6th Subcircuit - Figueroa Vacancy) (D)
Laura Bertucci Smith: Judge (Cook - 6th Subcircuit - Figueroa Vacancy) (D)

James A. Shapiro: Judge (Cook - 8th Subcircuit - Sheehan Vacancy) (D)

Dennis J. Burke: Judge (Cook Circuit - Disko Vacany) (D)

Jesse G. Reyes: Judge (Cook Circuit - Glowacki Vacancy) (D)

Maureen Ward Kirby: Judge (Cook Circuit - Healy Vacany) (D)

Marilyn F. Johnson: Judge (Cook Circuit - Keehan Vacancy) (D)

Thomas J. Byrne: Judge (Cook Circuit - Lott Vacancy) (D)

Thaddeus L. Wison: Judge (Cook Circuit - Montelione Vacancy) (D)

Paula M. Lingo: Judge (Cook Circuit - Murphy Vacancy) (D)

Michael B. Hyman: Judge (Cook Circuit - Nowicki Vacany) (D)

Joan Powell: Judge (Cook Circuit - Thomas Vacancy) (D)

5th Subcircuit -- 'A' vacancy: Organizing the data

110 -- Stephen Stern

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Stephen Stern is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Stern was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1977 and has had varied practice experience. Mr. Stern is dedicated to the law, analytical, and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Qualified (evaluated for the 2006 judicial Primary election)

Stephen Stern was admitted to practice in 1977. Since 2005, he has been a solo practitioner handling civil rights litigation. From 1999 to 2004 he was Litigation Director for the Leadership Council for Metropolitan Open Communities. For six years prior to that he was Chief of the Civil Rights Bureau of the Illinois Attorney General. From 1986 until 1993, he was a race relations attorney at the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago. Before that, he was in private practice as an associate attorney. Mr. Stern is considered to have good legal ability and litigation experience. Most practitioners praise his temperament, although there were a few reports that Mr. Stern can be unnecessarily rigid at times. He is widely praised for his community service. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Highly Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

Chicago Federation of Labor

Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local 2

IVI-IPO

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

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111 -- Dominique C. Ross

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Dominique C. Ross is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Ross was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1995. While Ms. Ross has a fine demeanor, at this stage of her career, she does not possess the requisite breadth and depth of legal experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Dominique C. Ross did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

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5th Subcircuit -- Bush vacancy: Organizing the data

107 -- Jackie Marie Portman

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Jackie Marie Portman did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

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108 -- Furmin D. Sessoms

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Furmin D. Sessoms is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Sessoms was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and has had diverse experience, including service as Executive Director of the Chicago Southside Branch of the NAACP. Mr. Sessoms currently serves as Deputy Public Defender in the Cook County Public Defender’s office and is an experienced practitioner. Mr. Sessoms is well regarded for his integrity and outstanding temperament. He possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Not Qualified (evaluated for a 2006 judicial vacancy. He has been appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to fill a judicial vacancy.)

Furmin Sessoms was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990. He has spent most of his legal career in the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, but also served as the Executive Director of the Southside Branch of the NAACP between 1994 and 1998 and again between 2000 and 2002. Mr. Sessoms has no jury trial or appellate law experience and despite his many years in the public defender’s office, has only tried misdemeanor cases. His evaluation yielded mixed results as to his temperament and freedom from political influence. While he is to be praised for his community service and commitment to diversity, he has not demonstrated the legal ability or temperament necessary to be a judge. Additionally, the Council has serious concerns about his lack of litigation experience in complex matters. The Council finds him Not Qualified.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Evaluated

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

IVI-IPO

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109 -- Nkrumah Lumumba Hopkins

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Nkruman Lumumba Hopkins did not submit materials for evaluation and is therefore, Not Recommended for Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Back to sample ballot page

13th Subcircuit -- Ryan vacancy: Organizing the data

Democratic Candidates

107 -- Joe Gump Candidate website The Chicago Bar Association says:

Joe Gump is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Gump was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and served as an Assistant Public Defender for 18 years prior to entering private practice. Mr. Gump is thoughtful, fair-minded, and possesses the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Joseph M. Gump has been a lawyer since 1987. He has been an Assistant Cook County Public Defender his entire career, serving most recently in the Rolling Meadows courthouse doing felony trial work. Mr. Gump is considered to have good legal ability and is praised by judges, defense counsel, and prosecutors as being a zealous and fair advocate for his clients. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor ------------------------------------------------------------------- 108 -- Ann Catherine Brady Candidate website The Chicago Bar Association says:

Ann Catherine Brady is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Brady was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987. Ms. Brady is well regarded for her legal knowledge and ability and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Ann Catherine Brady has been a lawyer since 1987. She has handled principally domestic relations cases in private law firms throughout her career. Lawyers report that she has good legal ability and a good temperament. The Council is concerned, however, that her practice is narrow and too often involves non-complicated litigation matters. She has no jury trial experience. The Council finds her Not Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended -------------------------------------------------------------------

Republican Candidates

72 -- Annie O'Donnell No candidate website known The Chicago Bar Association says:

Annie O'Donnell is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. O'Donnell was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1987 and has extensive experience in criminal law. Ms. O'Donnell is knowledgeable, hardworking, and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Not Qualified (Evaluated for the March 2004 Primary Election) Annie O'Donnell received her license to practice law in 1987. She has been a solo practitioner engaged in criminal defense work since 1995. Before that, she served as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender. Ms. O'Donnell has good legal ability and a good temperament. The Council is concerned about the narrowness of her practice, including lack of sufficient courtroom experience in complex matters. The Council finds her Not Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Not Evaluated Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Evaluated Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended ------------------------------------------------------------------- 73 -- James E. Babcock, Jr. James E. Babcock, Jr.: In his own words Candidate website The Chicago Bar Association says:

James E. Babcock, Jr. is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Babcock was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1985 and has considerable litigation experience. Mr. Babcock needs to improve on his temperament, but possesses the requisite legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

James E. Babcock, Jr. has been a lawyer since 1985 and has been in private practice throughout his legal career. He has substantial civil trial experience in both state and federal courts. Lawyers report that he has good legal ability and he is praised as being exceptionally hardworking and well-prepared. He has a good temperament and, in general, is an experienced and knowledgeable trial lawyer. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Highly Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Highly Recommended Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended ------------------------------------------------------------------- 74 -- Paul S. Pavlus No candidate website known The Chicago Bar Association says:

Paul S. Pavlus is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Pavlus was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1993 and currently serves as an Assistant State's Attorney. Mr. Pavlus is hardworking and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Paul S. Pavlus has been a lawyer since 1991. For most of his career, Mr. Pavlus has served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, where he currently serves as Deputy Supervisor and Suburban Coordinator for domestic violence courtrooms. He is very involved in community service activities. Lawyers report that he has good legal ability and temperament. He is exceptionally knowledgeable about his area of law and enjoys a reputation of being a good advocate who is working to improve the legal system. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Not Evaluated Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended ------------------------------------------------------------------- 75 -- Guy M. Karm Candidate website The Chicago Bar Association says:

Guy M. Karm is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Karm was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1982 and has served in the police department, State's Attorney's office, and as defense counsel. Mr. Karm possesses the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Not Qualified (evaluated for the 2002 Associate Judge evaluations) Guy M. Karm, 55, was admitted to practice in 1982. Since 1982, he has been a solo general practitioner handling criminal litigation and real estate matters. From 1969 to 1985, Mr. Karm was an Arlington Heights Police Officer and, later, an Investigator. Mr. Karm is considered to have adequate legal ability and a good temperament. He is diligent and hard working. The Council, however, is concerned that he has limited trial experience in complex matters. The Council finds Mr. Karm Not Qualified to serve in Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended Cook County Bar Association – Recommended Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended Hellenic Bar Association – Not Evaluated Illinois State Bar Association – Recommended Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

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Ann Catherine Brady website link

Found on the Internet: The campaign website of Ann Catherine Brady, Democratic candidate for the Ryan vacancy in the 13th Judicial Subcircuit. I've added this link to the list of campaign websites in the Sidebar.

Brian Terrence Sexton website link

Found on the Internet: The campaign website of Brian Terrence Sexton, candidate for the countywide Nowicki vacancy. I've added this link to the list of candidate websites in the Sidebar.

Joe Gump website link

The websites keep turning up: This is a link to the campaign website of Joe Gump, Democratic candidate for the Ryan vacancy in the 13th Judicial Subcircuit. I've added this link to the list of candidate websites in the Sidebar.

13th Subcircuit -- Tobin vacancy: Organizing the data

Democratic Candidates

109 -- Carol L. Barnes

No candidate website known

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Carol L. Barnes did not submit materials for evaluation. She is Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Not Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Not Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Not Evaluated

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110 -- Gary G. Stanton

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Gary G. Stanton is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Stanton was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1975 and has extensive trial experience. Mr. Stanton possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Gary Stanton has been a lawyer since 1975. He is a career Cook County Assistant Public Defender, currently assigned to the Multiple Defendants Division. He has substantial bench and jury experience in more complex matters. Mr. Stanton is considered to be a highly experienced, knowledgeable, and effective criminal defense attorney. He is praised for his temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Not Evaluated

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

Chicago Federation of Labor

Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local 2

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

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Republican Candidates

76 -- Margarita Kulys Hoffman

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Judge Margarita Kulys Hoffman is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Hoffman was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1983 and practiced law for 23 years before her appointment to the bench in 2006. Judge Hoffman has extensive experience and is highly respected for her knowledge of the law, work ethic, integrity, and fine judicial temperament.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Margaret Kulys-Hoffman has been a lawyer since 1983. She was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2006. She currently presides over traffic court and misdemeanor courtrooms in the Rolling Meadows courthouse. The Council, in an earlier evaluation done before she took the bench, found Judge Kulys-Hoffman Not Qualified due to insufficient litigation experience. The Council’s current evaluation is based on her performance as a judge. She is considered by lawyers appearing before her to have good legal ability and temperament. She is praised for her courtroom management skills in high volume courtrooms. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Chicago Tribune

Chicago Sun-Times

Personal PAC

Illinois Civil Justice League

Italian American Political Coalition

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77 -- George L. Straton

Campaign website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

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.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

George L. Straton has been a lawyer since 1990. He is in private practice, focusing on criminal defense litigation (primarily misdemeanor cases), although he does some workers’ compensation, contract disputes, and domestic relations cases. He is the Village Prosecutor for the Villages of Schaumburg and Palatine. He is reported to have good legal ability and temperament. He is praised for his diligence. The Council is concerned, however, that Mr. Straton’s practice does not involve complex matters. The Council finds him Not Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Not Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Not Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

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78 -- Cary J. Collins

Candidate website

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Cary J. Collins is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Collins was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1979. Mr. Collins concentrates his practice in pension issues involving policemen and firemen. However, the candidate’s limited practice experience does not qualify him at this time to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Qualified (evaluated for the 2006 Primary election)

Cary J. Collins has been in private practice since his admission to practice in 1979. Since 1985, his practice has concentrated on representing Fire and Police Pension Boards in Administrative Hearings. He has also had a general practice with various law firms. Since 1999, he has been a Trustee for the Village of Hoffman Estates and has also held various other offices with the village government. Mr. Collins is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. He is praised as being diligent and hard-working. He has had substantial litigation experience during the course of his career. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Other Bar Association evaluations

Asian American Bar Association – Qualified

Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago – Recommended

Cook County Bar Association – Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers – Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association – Recommended

Illinois State Bar Association – Qualified

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago – Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Women’s Bar Association of Illinois – Recommended

Northwest Suburban Bar Association – Highly Recommended

Other Recommendations or Endorsements

Illinois Citizens for Life

Jewish Political Alliance of Illinois

Italian American Political Coalition

Illinois Committee for Honest Government

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