CCL evaluations in the race for the countywide O'Mara Frossard vacancy

The Chicago Council of Lawyers has released its evaluations of candidates running for the O'Mara Frossard vacancy. Candidates are listed in ballot order. All of the following are candidates in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this (or any other) countywide Circuit Court vacancy.

Nichole C. Patton -- Not Qualified

Nicole Patton was admitted to practice in 1997. She is currently a sole practitioner and was an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney having practiced in the areas of real estate taxation, delinquency, child protection, traffic, and appeals. She reports acting as lead counsel in one civil jury, five criminal juries, 200 criminal bench trials, and 100 civil trials. She has handled 25 cases on appeal. Ms. Patton is considered to have good legal ability and temperament and has the reputation of being a good attorney. The Council is concerned, however, because while Ms. Patton has litigation experience, little of it is in more complex matters. She has the potential for being a good judge but the Council believes she is not yet ready for the bench. The Council finds her Not Qualified at this time.

Kevin W. Horan -- Qualified

Judge Kevin W. Horan was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2010. He was admitted to practice in 1979. Before becoming a judge, he was a partner with the law firm of Rock Fusco LLC. He served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney from 1979 to 1987. He then entered private practice with Rock Fusco & Garvey Ltd and became partner in 1991. Mr. Fusco is considered to have good legal ability and has substantial experience in more complex litigation matters in both state and federal courts. He is praised for his professionalism. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.

Diann Karen Marsalek -- Not Qualified

Diann Marsalek was admitted to practice in 1989. She spent 16 years in the Illinois Attorney General’s office doing litigation primarily for the Illinois Department of Corrections (DOC). Her initial 13 years in practice were primarily spent defending Section 1983 cases against the DOC in federal court, though she did also have some limited litigation experience in state court during this period. Her final three years in the AG’s office were spent as a “facilitator” for litigation involving the DOC and as a policy advisor concerning litigation and legislation. Ms. Marsalek is reported to have good legal ability and temperament. The Council is concerned, however, that most of her litigation experience was earlier in her career and was in federal court. The Council finds her Not Qualified to serve in the Circuit Court.

Rodrick F. Wimberly -- Not Recommended

Rodrick F. Wimberly did not submit materials for evaluation. The Council finds him Not Recommended for the Circuit Court.

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