Organizing the Data: 18th Subcircuit vacancy converted from the Associate Judgeship of Gottainer Edidin

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Jeffrey G. Chrones - #161

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 34 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for Jeffrey G. Chrones’s current Circuit Court Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Jeffery George Chrones currently sits in the Second Municipal District in Skokie. He presides over traffic, misdemeanor, domestic violence, and municipal cases in the areas of commercial litigation, collections, evictions, and small claims. He also conducts emergency hearings for request for mental health writs. He was elected by the Circuit Judges to be an Associate Judge in 2018 and served in the First Municipal District at the Daley Center between 2018 and 2021 where he presided over traffic and misdemeanor cases. Between 2003 and 2018, Judge Chrones was an attorney and partner with Johnson and Bell, Ltd., where he focused on commercial litigation matters. Between 1995 and 2003, he served as an Assistant Cook County States Attorney. From 1993 to 1995 he served as an Assistant Illinois Attorney General.

Judge Chrones, before becoming a judge, had substantial litigation experience in civil litigation matters. He was a well respected practitioner. Judge Chrones receives high marks on legal ability He is reported by all the respondents to be well prepared for hearings and trials. He is praised for his grasp of evidentiary and procedure issues. He is reported generally to be thoughtful and thorough in his rulings and many respondents used the word “decisive” to describe him. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Hon. Jeffrey G. Chrones has been licensed since 1993. Prior to his selection as an Associate Judge in 2018, he was a partner at Johnson and Bell, where he focused on commercial litigation. He is currently assigned to the Second District (Skokie) where he presides over a variety of calls including misdemeanors, Domestic Violence, and civil matters. He has been in that assignment since November 2021, after first sitting in First Municipal. In 2018 he received an award from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation at its Judicial Recognition Reception. He is a past president and director of the Hellenic Bar Association and is Secretary of the Themis Hellenic Judges Association. He also helped start a virtual help desk for small claims litigants with the North Suburban Bar Association.

Attorneys praised his knowledge of the law and his courtroom demeanor. He is considered fair, prepared, hard-working and respectful to all. ISBA finds Associate Judge Jeffery G. Chrones qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Highly Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IBEW Local 134
IUOE Local 399
United Hellenic Voters of America

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Sunil Bhave - #162

Campaign Website

Sunil Bhave: In his own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Sunil Bhave is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Judge. Mr. Bhave was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2005 and is currently working for the Illinois Attorney General’s office handling a variety of litigation matters. Mr. Bhave is well regarded for his knowledge of the law and excellent temperament.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Sunil Bhave became a lawyer in 2004 and started his career with the Missouri Public Defender’s Office. He spent most of his career as an Assistant Attorney General for the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. He served as a trial lawyer in both state and federal courts. He became an Associate Judge in 2023.

Judge Bhave is considered to have good legal ability and was a well respected practitioner before becoming a judge. He is reported to be well prepared and is praised for showing patience toward the persons appearing before him, while moving cases in a timely manner. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Hon. Sunil S. Bhave has been licensed since 2005. He spent most of his career with the Illinois Attorney General’s office, where he ultimately supervised the Civil Prosecutions Unit. In March 2023, he was selected as an associate judge, and is currently assigned to the Traffic Division. He is a committee member and board member of the Asian-American Bar Association and is a member of several other bar associations. He is a past member of the School Board for Community Consolidated School District 59.

Attorneys praised his legal knowledge and ability, professionalism, sensitivity to diversity and bias, and work ethic; essentially considered to be a tremendous asset to the judiciary. ISBA finds Associate Judge Sunil Bhave qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

IVI-IPO
Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Organizing the Data: 14th Subcircuit - O'Hara vacancy

Updated 3/15/24 with additional information

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Griselda Vega Samuel - #161

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 34 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for Griselda Vega Samuel’s current Circuit Court Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Griselda Vega Samuel was admitted to practice in the state of Washington in 2001 and in Illinois in 2008. Since 2018, she has served as regional counsel, Midwest at the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. She does impact litigation in state and federal courts, as well as legislative policy advocacy. From 2001-2004 and from 2007-2008, Ms. Vega Samuel served as a staff attorney at Columbia Legal Services in Yakima, Washington, from 2005-2006, she was employed at Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago (now Legal Aid Chicago) doing family law, housing, and consumer law. From 2008-2013, she was a Senior Attorney and Legal Director at the Justice in Motion in Brooklyn, New York. From 2013 to 2018 she was employed by Safe Horizon Anti-Trafficking Program.

Ms. Vega Samuel is considered to have good legal ability and is well respected in the legal and social justice communities. She has substantial litigation experience in civil court matters, including both individual representation and in impact litigation. She is praised for her temperament both as a practitioner and as a supervisor. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Griselda Vega Samuel has been licensed in Illinois since 2008, having previously been licensed in the state of Washington in 2001. Since March 2018, she has served as Regional Counsel, Midwest, at MALDEF (Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund). Although she is currently on a leave of absence due to her judicial campaign, she manages the litigation docket for several midwestern states, including class actions and impact litigation in federal court. Before taking that position, she worked for a variety of non-profits and legal service organizations focusing on civil and human rights, where she supervised programs and advocated before Congress, various government agencies, and in the media. She has written and spoken on civil rights and human rights issues. She has received several awards, including most recently the Chicago Bar Association’s Vanguard Award in 2022 and the Hispanic Lawyers Association Latina Lawyer of the Year award in 2019. In addition, she has chaired committees for the American Bar Association and the Hispanic Lawyers Association. She has handled matters in both state and federal court.

The Investigation revealed that she is well-respected in the legal and social justice communities, citing especially her legal writing experience, which includes the drafting of legal and litigation manuals in both English and Spanish. She is considered to have excellent legal knowledge and ability and is praised for her sensitivity to diversity and her community involvement. ISBA finds Griselda Vega Samuel qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Steve Demitro - #162

Campaign Website (newly added)

Steve Demitro: In his own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Steve Demitro is "Qualified" to serve as a Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Demitro was admitted to practice law in Illinois in May 2000. Since then, he has handled a variety of litigation matters. He has demonstrated a strong work ethic and integrity. He has presided over more than 200 arbitrations in his legal practice. He is well-regarded for his temperament and demeanor, and he is respected for his civic and community involvement. Mr. Demitro has sufficient legal knowledge and ability to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Steve Demitro was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2000. Since that time, he has been a Solo Practitioner. His practice is concentrated on torts (personal injury), but he also handles some criminal law, domestic relations, real estate, probate, and chancery matters.

Mr. Demitro is considered to have good legal ability and is praised for his temperament. He is very active in community affairs. He has had substantial litigation experience, particularly in recent years. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. Steve Demitro has been licensed since 2000. He has been a sole practitioner his entire career with a general practice handling mainly torts, but also some criminal, domestic relations, real estate, and probate matters. He was a hearing officer for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and an arbitrator for seventeen years. He is currently the Vice President of the Ukrainian National Museum, has lectured on legal topics to students, and is involved in other community organizations in the McKinley Park area.

Though he has limited bench trial experience, most attorneys who have worked with him stated that he has good legal knowledge and ability, does research, and works well with different ethnic groups. He is always prepared, even keeled, and listens well. ISBA finds Steve Demitro qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Qualified

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Not Evaluated (through no fault of candidate)

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor
Teamsters Local 700

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Organizing the Data: 11th Subcircuit - Daleo vacancy

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Audrey Victoria Cosgrove - #162

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Audrey Victoria Cosgrove is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Cosgrove was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1990 and has served as a Cook County Assistant Public Defender and in private practice. Ms. Cosgrove is currently serving as Deputy Chief Legal Counsel for the Illinois Department of Labor. Ms. Cosgrove is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, diverse practice experience, and fine demeanor.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Audrey Victoria Cosgrove was admitted to practice in 1990. She serves as the Deputy General Counsel of the Department of the Illinois Lottery. From 1990 to 1998 she served as an Assistant Cook County Public Defender. She then became a solo practitioner until 2017 at which time she for one year served as Assistant General Counsel for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Banking. From 2018-2019 she was Deputy Chief Legal Counsel for the Illinois Department of Labor. She has also served as an administrative law judge for most of her career. She has substantial litigation experience. She is considered to have good legal ability and is active in community activities. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Audrey Cosgrove was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1990. She is currently the Chief Administrative Law Judge for the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board; prior to that appointment in February 2024, she had been the Deputy General Counsel for the Illinois Lottery since 2019. She had also served as deputy chief legal counsel for the Illinois Department of Labor, as an assistant public defender, and as a private practitioner handling criminal defense, juvenile, real estate, traffic, and family law matters while serving as an administrative law judge. She is a past president of the Advocates Society and the Pulaski-Elston Business Association and is a member of various bar associations. She has criminal jury trial experience including in complex matters. Attorneys related that she has fine legal knowledge, is a good resource, is impartial and a hard worker.

Attorneys report that she is very knowledgeable, a good litigator, has experience in various areas of law, and is both diligent and ethical. She has both jury and bench trial experience. ISBA finds Audrey Cosgrove qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Highly Recommended

Endorsements

IVI-IPO
Girl, I Guess

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Kim Przekota - #163

Campaign Website

Kim Przekota: In her own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Kimberly Przekota is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Judge. Ms. Przekota was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2008. Since then, she has been an Assistant Cook County State's Attorney and is currently a first chair Assistant in a felony courtroom, trying serious felonies including homicide. She has considerable practice experience and is highly regarded by her adversaries and judges before whom she has appeared. Ms. Przekota is well regarded for her professionalism, even in highly charged, emotional matters.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Kimberly Przekota was admitted to practice in 2008 and is a career Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney. She is a First Chair prosecutor in the Criminal Division. She is praised for her legal ability and knowledge. She is reported to have a good temperament and trial skills. She has substantial litigation experience in more complex matters. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Kimberly Przekota has been licensed since 2008. She is a career prosecutor currently serving as a First Chair at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse. She is a member of various bar associations including the Women’s Bar Association, the North Suburban Bar Association, and the Advocates Society. She participates in a Lawyers in the Classroom program and has criminal jury trial and bench trial experience including in homicide cases.

She received praise from attorneys and judges for her trial skill and legal knowledge, including in complex matters. She is described as hard-working, fair and calm. ISBA finds Kimberly Przekota qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IBEW Local 134
IUOE Local 399
AMVOTE PAC
Personal PAC

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Organizing the Data: Countywide Propes vacancy

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Debjani 'Deb' Desai - #151

Campaign Website

Debjani 'Deb' Desai: In her own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Debjani Desai is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Desai was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2008. She is currently the General Counsel for the Illinois Office of the Controller. Prior to that she was an administrative law judge at the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. She began her career as an Assistant State's Attorney, first in the Child Protection and Enforcement Unit and then prosecuting cases in the Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Unit. Ms. Desai is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, diverse legal experience, and excellent demeanor.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Debjani Dasgupta Desai was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2008 and was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2023. Before taking the bench, she served as General Counsel of the Illinois Office of Comptroller, Special Prosecutor for the Cook County Child Protection Division, and Adjunct Professor at UIC Law School. She also served as Assistant General Counsel and Administrative Law Judge in the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (2016- 2020) and as an Assistant State’s Attorney for the Cook County State’s Attorney Office (2008- 2016), where she served in the Public Corruption Unit,the Child Protection and Juvenile JusticeDivisions, and the Child Support Enforcement Division. She is a member of a number of bar associations, including the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago Foundation (President, 2021), the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago (President, 2018), the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois, and the Chicago Bar Association.

Judge Desai is considered to have very good legal ability. She is reported to be knowledgeable and has successfully learned a variety of areas of law during her career. She is praised as a litigator, as an administrator, as an administrative hearing officer, and as a law school adjunct professor. She is reported to have a good temperament. She is respectful and professional. She is described as “detail-oriented” and is exceptionally hard working. She is also described as empathetic toward people appearing before her and with her students. The Council finds her Well Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Hon. Debjani Desai was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2008 and recently appointed to fill the At- Large vacancy created by the retirement of the Hon. Lorna E. Propes. The appointment is effective July 14, 2023, and will conclude December 2, 2024, following the November 2024 general election. Judge Desai had served since 2020 as General Counsel for the Illinois Office of Comptroller where she was the Chief Legal Officer leading a team of attorneys in Chicago and Springfield to provide legal and subject matter expertise on legislation, finance, operations, compliance, labor, and employment. She had also served since 2020 as a Special Prosecutor for Cook County in contested Juvenile Court proceedings and as an Adjunct Professor of Counseling & Negotiations at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law. From 2008 to 2014 she was an Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County.

Attorneys reported that she has good legal ability, is knowledgeable and had successfully learned a variety of areas of law during her career. She is reported to have a good temperament and is professional and respectful. ISBA finds Judge Debjani Desai qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Highly Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Cook County Democratic Party
Chicago Federation of Labor
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IUOE Local 150
IUOE Local 399
IBEW Local 134
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No.7
Cong. Jan Schakowsky
Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Russ Hartigan - #152

Campaign Website (newly added)

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Russell W. Hartigan is "Highly Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court. Mr. Hartigan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1976 and practiced law from 1977-2010 concentrating in civil trial, workers' compensation, municipal and appellate practice matters. Mr. Hartigan has handled a number of appeals in both the State and Federal Courts and authored many articles in the ISBA Journal. Mr. Hartigan was appointed to the Circuit Court of Cook County in 2010 and served as a judge until 2017. Mr. Hartigan is currently practicing law with a suburban firm. Mr. Hartigan has extensive experience as a lawyer and as a judge and possesses all the requisite qualifications to serve as an Appellate Court Justice.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Russell W. Hartigan was admitted to practice in 1976. He served as a Circuit Court judge between 2010 and 2017. He was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2010. As a lawyer he practiced for 34 years before becoming a judge and has practiced since retiring from the bench in 2017. He has been exceptionally active in bar association activities.

As a lawyer, Judge Hartigan had substantial litigation experience in both civil and criminal law matters, including appellate court experience. He was praised for his litigation skills, for his temperament, and for his integrity. As a judge, he spent much of his career in the Bridgeview Courthouse hearing a variety of cases. He was a well-respected jurist who was praised for his courtroom demeanor and management skills. The Council finds him Well Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Hon. Russell Hartigan (ret.) was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1976. He was appointed to the Cook County Circuit Court in 2010 and then elected in 2012. His assignments included First Municipal and the Fifth District (Bridgeview). In 2017 he resigned from the bench upon being elected president of the Illinois State Bar Association. From 1976 until his appointment in 2010 he concentrated on civil litigation for several different firms, as a partner, owner, and being Hartigan and O’Connor. He teaches at The Marshall Law School, speaks statewide on legal topics, and writes articles. As a judge, he spent much of his career at the Fifth Municipal District (Bridgeview) hearing a variety of cases.

Attorneys have a high regard for his legal knowledge, preparedness, and approachable demeanor. ISBA finds Judge Russell W. Hartigan (ret.) highly qualified to be elected as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Recommended

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsement

AMVOTE PAC

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Organizing the Data: Countywide Murphy vacancy

Updated 3/15/24 with additional information from the Alliance

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Lori Ann Roper - #149

Campaign Website

Lori Ann Roper: In her own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Lori Ann Roper is "Not Recommended" for the office of Circuit Judge. Ms. Roper was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and has served as an Assistant Public Defender in the Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender for 26 years. Ms. Roper is currently a supervisor in the Felony Trial Division. Concerns about the candidate's candor and judgement regarding personal financial challenges resulted in a "Not Recommended" finding.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Lori Ann Roper was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1994. She is a career Assistant Cook County Public Defender. She is assigned to 26th and California where she is an Attorney Supervisor. She has held various positions as an Assistant Public Defender. Ms. Roper has substantial litigation experience in a variety of complex criminal law matters. She advises other Assistant Public Defenders on litigation strategies, and is considered to be an excellent lawyer. She is reported to have a professional and low key temperament. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Lori Ann Roper declined to participate in the judicial evaluation process. Pursuant to ISBA guidelines, Ms. Roper is not recommended to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County. (This is a rating from a prior election cycle; in response to an inquiry from FWIW, ISBA said the candidate was offered an opportunity to participate in a re-evaluation by the ISBA, but did not respond. -- Ed.)

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Not Evaluated (through no fault of the candidate)

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

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Edward Joseph Underhill - #150

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 34 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for Edward Jospeh Underhill’s current Circuit Court Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Edward Underhill was admitted to practice in 1984 and was appointed to the Circuit Court by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2023. Prior to taking the bench, Mr. Underhill was a senior partner and chair of the Commercial Litigation Practice Group at Masuda, Funai, Eifert & Mitchell, Ltd. where he has been employed since 1984. In this role he focused on commercial litigation in both federal and state courts proceedings. He has also served in the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Judge Underhill is considered to have good legal ability and was a well respected practitioner before taking the bench. As a judge he is praised for his professional and courteous judicial temperament. He was especially praised for the way he presides over cases where at least one of the parties is unrepresented by legal counsel. He is reported to rule in a fair, impartial, and unbiased manner. He is reported to be an excellent jurist in the short time that he has been on the bench. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

on. Edward Joseph Underhill was appointed to fill the At-Large vacancy created by the retirement of the Hon. Timothy P. Murphy effective December 5, 2022. The appointment was effective June 8th, 2023, and will continue through December 2, 2024, following the November 2024 general election. Mr. Underhill was a senior partner and chair of the Commercial Litigation Practice Group at Masuda, Funai & Eifert & Mitchell, Ltd., where he had worked for parts of five decades since 1984. In this role he represented clients in complex and basic commercial litigation, commercial transactions, and Article 9 (“UCC”) disputes and served as lead-counsel in federal and state court proceedings, among other duties. He had also served in the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Judge Underhill is praised for his professional and courteous judicial temperament. He is reported to rule in a fair, impartial and unbiased manner. ISBA finds Judge Edward Joseph Underhill qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Cook County Democratic Party
Chicago Federation of Labor
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IBEW Local 134
IUOE Local 399 Girl, I Guess
AMVOTE PAC
Personal PAC

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Organizing the Data: Countywide Mitchell vacancy

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Neil Cohen - #147

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Judge Neil Cohen is "Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Cohen was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1976. He served as an Associate Judge from 2009 through 2022 when he was appointed a Circuit Court Judge by the Illinois Supreme Court. He currently sits in General Chancery. There, he is respected for his knowledge of the law and diligence in his work habits. He is well respected for his legal ability, integrity, and judicial experience. However, he is faulted for his unpredictable temperament. The committee is persuaded that he is committed to improving his temperament sufficiently to find him qualified to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Judge Neil Cohen was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1976. He worked as an Assistant State’s Attorney and in solo criminal defense practice prior to taking the bench as an associate judge. Since 2011, he has been in the Chancery Court at the Daley Center. He has extensive teaching and lecturing experience including various symposia and seven years as a clinical adjunct at Chicago-Kent College of Law. He is the President of the Jewish Judges’ Association and a member of various other bar associations and legal societies.

Judge Cohen is considered to have good legal ability and is praised for his thorough knowledge and understanding of the complex issues he faces in his current judicial assignment. He is praised for his diligence in issuing opinions in a timely manner. Most lawyers praise his temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Hon. Neil Cohen has been licensed in Illinois since 1976. After a career as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, he was selected as an associate judge in 2009. In September 2022 he was appointed to the circuit court. He has been assigned to the Chancery Division since 2011; previous assignments include the Traffic Division and the Fourth Municipal District (Maywood). He serves on several Illinois Supreme Court Committees, including the Illinois Judicial College, and is president of the Jewish Judges Association. He is a member of various bar associations and received the Distinguished Service Award from the Decalogue Society in 2022.

Attorneys all praised his legal knowledge, pointing out that he handles a variety of complex issues in Chancery. While a few acknowledged that he could be impatient at times, all praised his impartiality, integrity, and diligence. ISBA finds Judge Neil Cohen qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Highly Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Cook County Democratic Party
AMVOTE PAC
IBEW Local 134
Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Wende Williams - #148

Campaign Website (newly added)

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Wende Williams 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:

Wende Williams did not participate in the evaluation process. The Council finds her Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Wende Williams declined to participate in the judicial evaluation process. Pursuant to ISBA guidelines, Ms. Wende Williams is not recommended to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Not Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Endorsement

IUOE Local 399

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Organizing the Data: Countywide Flannery, Jr. vacancy

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Pablo F. deCastro - #141

Campaign Website

Pablo F. deCastro: In his own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 34 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for Pablo F. DeCastro’s current Circuit Court Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Pablo F. deCastro was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1994. Since 2012, he has been a solo practitioner in the Law offices of Pablo deCastro, where he focuses on criminal defense. He also handled criminal defense cases as a partner at Rascia and deCastro (2007-2012) and as an associate attorney at Serpico, Novelle, Petrosino and Rascia (2000-2012). Previously (1994-2000), he had been an Assistant Public Defender in the Office of the Cook County Public Defender. He is a member of numerous bar associations and legal societies, including the American Bar Association, the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Criminal Justice Act Panel, and the Northern District of Illinois Criminal Justice Act Panel, where he serves on the Attorney Selection Panel.

Mr. deCastro is considered to have good legal ability and to be a zealous advocate for his clients. He is praised for his temperament and is active in pro bono matters. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. Pablo deCastro has been licensed since 1994. Since 2012 he has been a sole practitioner focusing on criminal defense. From 1994-2000 he was an assistant public defender, and before opening his own practice he was in the private sector also focusing on criminal defense. He has substantial criminal jury trial experience and civil bench trials as well as federal experience. He teaches at the University of Chicago Law School Intensive Trial Practice program, is a member of several bar associations, and currently serves on the Panel Attorney Selection Committee for the Federal Defender’s Office Panel Attorney Program.

Respondents generally described him as being very smart and capable, a zealous advocate who knows the rules of evidence. He is known to be very committed to diversity, professional and calm. ISBA finds Pablo F. deCastro qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qaulified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Cook County Democratic Party
Chicago Federation of Labor
IVI-IPO
AMVOTE PAC
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IBEW Local 134
IUOE Local 399
Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Chelsey Renece Robinson - #142

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Chelsey R. Robinson is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Robinson was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1996 and is currently in private practice concentrating in criminal and family law. Ms. Robinson has a wide range of practice experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law and diligence.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Chelsey R. Robinson was admitted to practice in 1996. She is a Partner in a small firm where she handles civil and criminal litigation matters. Her practice also includes bankruptcy and employment discrimination matters in federal court. She is widely praised for her legal ability and for her knowledge of the law. She has litigation experience in a variety of matters in both state and federal courts. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Chelsey R. Robinson has been licensed since 1996. She is a founding partner of Owens & Robinson, a general practice handling both criminal and civil matters. She was also a legal consultant to the Judge Mathis television program. She is a member of some bar associations, a volunteer at the Juvenile Detention Center and is active with other community organizations. She has limited jury and bench trial activities and limited experience with complex matters.

While she is considered to be ethical and honest, attorneys gave mixed comments as to the depth and breadth of her overall legal experience. ISBA finds Chelsey R. Robinson not qualified to be elected as Judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not Evaulated (through no fault of the candidate)

Asian American Bar Association: Qualified

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Not Evaluated (through no fault of the candidate)

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Recommended

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

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Organizing the Data: 19th Subcircuit - Vacancy converted from Associate Judgeship of Senechalle, Jr.

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Bridget Colleen Duignan - #161

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Bridget Duignan is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Duignan was admitted to practice law in 2004.The majority of her practice has been spent in a firm specializing in litigation, specifically personal injury related to sexual assault. She is the Second Vice-President of the ISBA and volunteers to assist those in need with legal services. Ms. Duignan is very highly respected by judges, colleagues, and adversaries for her legal knowledge and ability.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Bridget Duignan was admitted to practice in 2004. She is currently a partner in a firm, specializing personal injury and malpractice litigation. She is a former employee of the Illinois House of Representatives, as well as a former lawyer with several firms handling workers compensation and employment matters. She has authored articles in ISBA section publications.

Bridget Duignan is considered to have good legal ability and has substantial litigation experience in more complex matters. She is praised both for her litigation skills and for her systemic reform work with the Illinois legislature. She is reported to have very good temperament – focused and calm while in the midst of heated litigation. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Bridget Colleen Duignan has been licensed since 2004. Since 2007 she has been owner and managing partner at Lathertow and Duignan, focusing on personal injury and malpractice litigation. After working briefly as Assistant Counsel to the Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives and with a law firm handling worker’s compensation matters. She has civil jury, bench, and quasi-criminal experience. She is currently the Second Vice President (to be President in 2025) of the Illinois State Bar Association, where she has also chaired sections and committees. She is on the Boards of the Illinois State Bar Foundation and the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and chairs a committee for the Women’s Bar Association. She has lectured and written on legal topics, and has been the recipient of several awards, including the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois Top Women Lawyers in Leadership Award (2020) and the Illinois Trial Lawyers President’s Award (2014).

Attorneys, opposing counsel and judges praised her legal knowledge and experience, professionalism, and her trial skills. She was described as being a person of strong integrity, hardworking, diligent, and effective. ISBA finds Bridget Colleen Duignan qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Highly Recommended

Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor
Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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Risa Renee Lanier - #162

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Risa Lanier is "Highly Qualified" for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Lanier was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1999. She has been an Assistant State's Attorney since February 2000 and is currently the First Assistant State's Attorney. Ms. Lanier has extensive litigation experience. She is highly regarded by judges, adversaries and colleagues for her legal knowledge and ability, integrity, outstanding temperament, and thoughtful demeanor.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Risa Lanier was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1999. She has spent her entire career in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office where she has been a First Assistant State’s Attorney since 2021. She is a member of various bar associations, including the Chicago Bar Association where she has served as Chair of the Judicial Evaluation Committee.

Risa Lanier is considered to have good legal ability. While some lawyers say that her temperament can be problematic on occasion, most lawyers praise her temperament, her law practice standards, and her litigation skills. The Council finds her to be Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Risa Renee Lanier was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1999. She is a career prosecutor with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office and has served as First Assistant since 2021. She previously served in other supervisory positions, including as Chief Deputy and Chief of the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau. She is a past member of the Chicago Bar Association’s Board of Managers and Judicial Evaluation Committee, and currently serves on two committees. She is a member of the Cook County Bar Association and the National Black Prosecutors Association.

She has substantial criminal jury and bench trial experience, including in complex matters, and has handled several high-profile cases. Attorneys contacted during the investigation process had wide-ranging views, with some referring to her as excellent while others opined that she lacked judgement and displayed poor decision-making skills. Some also expressed concerns over what they termed her honesty and candidness with the Court, while others had no such concerns. ISBA finds Ms. Risa Renee Lanier not qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Recommended

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Endorsement

Personal PAC

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Dave Heilmann - #163

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 34 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for Dave Heilmann’s current Circuit Court Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

David M. Heilmann was admitted to practice in 1987. Since then, he has worked at Clausen Miller P.C. where he is now an equity partner. Mr. Heilmann also practices civil defense work in the areas of toxic tort, employment, and construction litigation.

Mr. Heilmann is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. He is reported to be a solid practitioner who is praised for his litigation skills and for being well-prepared. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. David Heilmann has been licensed since 1987. He joined Clausen Miller PC at that time, where he is currently a partner, focusing on labor and employment law and tort defense. He was Village President of Oak Lawn 2005-2013 and is a past member of the Oak Lawn Park District Board of Commissioners. He is a co-founder of the Oak Lawn theatre program for children and wrote in the past for Chicago Lawyer magazine. He has received community awards including the National City Livability Award for Outstanding Achievement from the United States Conference of Mayors. He has substantial pretrial motion experience and some jury and bench trial experience.

Attorneys reported that his legal knowledge and ability is very good, and that he is punctual and diligent, and is sensitive to diversity with high character. ISBA finds Mr. David Heilmann qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended


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Organizing the Data: 20th Subcircuit - Vacancy converted from the Associate Judgeship of Budzinski

Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy. This post may be updated before the primary as new information becomes available.

Nickolas Pappas - #161

Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 31 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for your current Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Nickolas George Pappas was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1995. Since 2007, he has been President of Pappas Law Offices, P.C., a general legal practice where he handles criminal defense, civil litigation (municipal, law, chancery), administrative appeals and hearings, and other matters. He has also served as General Counsel to the Lakeland Healthcare Group, LLC (2012-2015) and as an Associate Attorney at Querrey & Harrow, Ltd. (2004-2007), a general litigation firm. From 2011-2012 and from 1996-2004, he worked for the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, first as an Assistant State’s Attorney where his assignments included First Municipal District, Fifth Municipal District, Felony Review, and the Felony Trial Division, and later as a Special State’s Attorney representing the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. From 2008 to 2019, he provided pro bono legal services for refugee immigrant clients of Refugee One, a social service agency. He is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association.

Mr. Pappas is considered to have good legal ability. He has substantial litigation experience and is praised for his temperament. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. Nickolas Pappas was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1995. He has been a sole practitioner for sixteen years, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights cases; prior to opening his practice, he has worked for civil law firms as well as an assistant state’s attorney. He has substantial criminal jury and bench trial experience, has appeared in federal court, and has handled appeals. He participates in pro bono activities and volunteered in law-related education and competitions in local schools.

Attorneys gave positive feedback about his legal knowledge and ability including in complex matters, and praised his integrity, temperament, and diligence. ISBA finds Mr. Nickolas Pappas qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsement

Personal PAC

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Michael J. Zink - #162

Campaign Website

Michael J. Zink: In his own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Michael Zink is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Zink was admitted to practice law in November 2004. Mr. Zink is currently in private practice. The candidate has extensive legal experience, his references praise his temperament, and he has a strong history of performing community service. Mr. Zink is qualified to serve as a judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Michael Zink was admitted to practice in 2004. Since passing the bar, he has worked for a private law firm focusing on litigation matters in landlord-tenant, condominium, real estate, and bankruptcy maters. He has substantial litigation experience.

Michael Zink is considered to have good legal ability and knowledge. He is praised for his professionalism and for his work with the community. He is reported to have good litigation skills and has a calm demeanor. Mr. Zink is a well respected practitioner. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. Michael J. Zink was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2014. He is an equity partner with Starr, Bejgiert, Zink and Rowells where he has been employed since 2004. His firm focuses on litigation matters in landlord-tenant, condominium, real estate, and bankruptcy. He has litigated over one hundred civil bench trials. He has written and spoken extensively on legal matters for both bar associations and community groups. He has extensive bar association involvement, as past president of the Advocates Society; and Assembly, committee and section member of the Illinois State Bar Association; a committee member of the Chicago Bar Association; and as a member of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice. In addition, he is president of his condominium association and has been active with various community groups in the East Lake View and Lincoln Park communities.

Attorneys described his knowledge of the law as being stellar and sharp. They reported that he treats all parties professionally and with respect, is diligent, and has a calm and patient temperament. ISBA finds Mr. Michael J. Zink qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Not Evaluated (through no fault of the candidate)

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Chicago Federation of Labor
IVI-IPO
Teamsters Joint Council No. 25
Teamsters Local 700
IBEW Local 134
IUOE Local 399
Personal PAC

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John Poulos - #163

No Campaign Website Known

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

John Poulos 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:

John Poulos did not participate in the evaluation process. The Council finds him Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Mr. John Poulos declined to participate in the judicial evaluation process. Pursuant to ISBA guidelines, Mr. Poulos is found not recommended for election to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Not Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Not Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

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Nadine Jean Wichern - #164

Campaign Website

Nadine Jean Wichern: In her own words

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:

Pursuant to section 31 of The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee’s Governing Resolution, The Executive Committee has voted to issue a “Qualified” rating for your current Judge candidacy.

The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:

Nadine Jean Wichern was admitted to practice in 2000. Since 2015, she has served as the Chief of the Civil Appeals Division of the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. She began her career at the Illinois Attorney General’s Office and then from 2006 to 2011 she did appeals work in the Chicago Department of Law. She is considered to have very good legal ability, and is a well respected appellate lawyer. While she does not have direct trial experience, she advises trial lawyers in her office on issues which arise during trial, as well as other litigation issues. She is reported to have a good temperament. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.

The Illinois State Bar Association says:

Ms. Nadine Jean Wichern has been licensed since 2000. She is currently the Chief of the Appeals Division of the Office of the Attorney General of Illinois, a position she has held since 2015. In total she has been with the Civil Appeals Division from 2011 to 2015, also 2001 to 2006; prior to this, she had been in the Appeals Division of the City of Chicago Department of Law from 2006 to 2011. She has no jury or bench trail experience; she has appeared before various appellate courts as well as the Illinois and United States Supreme courts. She has taught legal writing at local law schools and presented and written on legal topics. She also sits on committees for the Women’s Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association and is a Director for the Appellate Lawyers Association. In 2023 she received a Women in Law Award from the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin/Chicago Lawyer magazine.

Attorneys consider her to be an accomplished appellate lawyer who is an excellent writer and advises trial attorneys in her office. She is sensitive to diversity, and it is report that she has an excellent temperament and character. ISBA finds Ms. Nadine Jean Wichern qualified to be elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Recommended

Black Men Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Qualified

Chicago's LGBTQ+ Bar Association (LAGBAC): Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements

Girl, I Guess
Personal PAC

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