Friday, March 27, 2020

Laughter is the best medicine...

Except, of course, if you're sick. In that case, efficacious medicine would be infinitely preferable to laughter.

And, if you're not sick, an effective vaccine would do you far more good than even a hearty chuckle.

At the present time, however, we have neither a vaccine to prevent, nor medicine to treat COVID-19. We can merely laugh at our fears.

In this post, therefore, I've collected a number of posts that appeared on Facebook or that I shamelessly stole from others who were aggregating these gags for their own selfish purposes. I can't credit the original creators of this content because I don't know who they were.

But I do know that all of these made me smile. Perhaps some will make you smile as well.


Kind of funny, isn't it, how reality has a way of undermining expectations?

When the schools shut down, this one struck me as 100% true. But, then, my wife, and one of my sons, is a teacher.


But parents are nothing if not resilient...


Fortunately for the future of the world, teachers are not permitted to simply declare victory and retire.

Still, standards and fashions may of necessity be revised on account of the coronavirus shutdowns. Hopefully, however, not to this extent:


When the history of this unhappy time is written, academics will be puzzled by the fact that, to address the threat of a respiratory disease, American consumers hoarded toilet paper.

Yet this is what happened, and the Internet made fun of it accordingly:



We can all hope that this is not an accurate prediction of how a future monument to this time may look:


There are any number of TP-related jokes. Just this morning I saw this one online: Last night someone TPd my house -- and now it's worth $875,000.

I don't think this will work with TP...


...but I believe it is a proven method for starting a potato plant. My ancestors thrived on these... before the blight. If things don't get better soon, we may have to remember how they did it.

It's all too easy to get depressed, watching the news, and reading social media accounts. We are supposed to be hunkering down in our homes -- but first responders and medical personnel aren't allowed to shelter in place. They must brave the storm despite critical shortages of personal protective equipment. Some solutions to ease the PPE shortages will work much better than this, but none will be sillier:


Social distancing is nothing new to me. People have crossed the street to avoid me for years. But it can be hard to handle for some.


Newspaper horoscopes used to be prepared months in advance. If this had really been prepared some months ago, it would have been quite impressive:


Pets were overjoyed when the work from home orders came out.


But even for Man's Best Friend, too much of a good thing can become a problem....


There are very few places that we can go during the lockdown, and the grocery is one of them. This church sign offers shoppers a tip from the Old Testament that is very relevant.


Somebody else was channeling their inner Steven Wright when they posted this gem:
They said a mask and gloves were enough to go to the grocery store.

They lied. Everybody else had clothes on.
But even though the grocery store is a permitted destination, it is not necessarily a safe place to go. In fact, you are only as safe at the grocery as the store's least careful customer. That's why this one made me laugh so hard. That, and the fact that I am of a certain age and level of nerdiness:


I initially thought to close this collection with something snarky, like this:


But this seems more appropriate to the seriousness of the times:


If you're supposed to stay home, stay home. And if you can't stay home, because you are keeping the rest of us fed, or keeping us safe, God bless you. Either way, be well.

Monday, March 16, 2020

I admit to a certain amount of distraction on this morning before the primary....



I know, as the proprietor of a political website, even one focused on the bottom of the ballot, that I am supposed to be fully engaged in the primary, and I will, I promise, get back to it, though I didn't get back to it yesterday as I thought I would.

Instead of engaged, I am confused.

Why are we doing this?

Every other social activity has been curtailed in the last week.

Sure, I understand momentum and money, lots of money, behind the election machinery. But there was a lot of money, much more money in fact, in pro sports, and in the collegiate tournaments. And momentum? The build-up to the NCAA basketball tournaments is more astounding every year. But the tournaments got cancelled anyway.

My youngest son is an assistant baseball coach at Illinois Tech (what we used to call the Illinois Institute of Technology). First, his spring training trip got cancelled. Then, his season. It's a D-III school, so the seniors on his team who were robbed of their final season were spared the discomfiture of crying before prying television cameras, as some local athletes, in higher profile programs, were not. But there were tears, just the same. And now my son is cleaning out his desk at school (he teaches in a south suburban middle school) trying to set his students up to learn from home for the foreseeable future.

My oldest son travels for a living. That went by the boards. For relaxation, he watches sporting events. He was planning on using some miles for a Spring Training trip to Arizona to see the budding White Sox powerhouse. Gone, all gone. With their busy schedules, he and his wife don't cook a lot at home; they dine out regularly.

Yesterday, that was taken away, too.

I could go on, but everyone reading this has their own stories, some far more serious. We are all disrupted. All at sea.

I know these harsh restrictions are imposed as much for my benefit as anyone's. I am in reasonably good health -- coughing and sneezing and dripping off and on since before Christmas, battling congestion and fatigue -- but my grandchildren are young, and they have nothing to give me but their germs. That was funnier a week or two ago. Besides, my wife (a teacher, too) has come home all winter with stories about this family or that one succumbing first to Influenza A, then Influenza B, then strep; at our worst, we were doing better than so many. The point is, I've been largely vertical all winter, able to help out with transport to or from school or doctor or to pick up and deliver sundries.

Now, I'm told, I'm at particular risk. A cancer survivor, I have far less colon than standard issue. But I think the real concern may be that, before I was 30, I had sarcoidosis. It was asymptomatic -- found by accident, really, while a surgeon was rummaging around in my chest looking for something else. This latest plague creates real problems with breathing, inexplicably worse in some than others. As the kid in high school who always finished last in the mile run -- even behind the really fat kid -- and, mind you, I was not a smoker then -- I'm a little concerned about whether my lungs will be equal to the virus when I get it.

So I'm worried about myself. And my kids. And my grandkids. And the economy. How long can people remain on salary 'working from home?' Money is evaporating in the stock market just as fast as if stacks of cash were piled in bushels and burned. Probably faster. And hourly workers in restaurants and bars, and those dependent on tips, are going to be without funds for the foreseeable future. How long must we hide in our homes until this contagion is contained?

And, yet, the election -- and only the election -- must go on.

The one in November, sure. That must happen regardless. But a primary? It could be done in August as easily as March.

But, no, we are told, it must happen, and it must happen tomorrow on schedule.

So... yes, I'm a little distracted this morning. Sorry.

Saturday, March 14, 2020

DPOP a pillar of Democratic Party orthodoxy

It's not surprising, of course, and it is a textbook illustration of dog bites man, but the Democratic Party of Oak Park has followed the Cook County Democratic Party's judicial slate right down the list.

But the DPOP emphasizes its particular endorsement of Judge Levander "Van" Smith, Jr., Maura McMahon Zeller, Laura Ayala-Gonzalez, and Judge Sheree Desiree Henry. Interestingly State Senate President (and Oak Park Committeman) Don Harmon notes his individual support for Clerk of the Circuit Court candidate Iris Y. Martinez while still noting the Party's preference for Michael M. Cabonargi.

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Cong. Danny Davis offers endorsements in Cook County judicial races


Longtime Illinois Congressman Danny K. Davis has his own reelection to look to, but that hasn't stopped him from offering endorsements in other races, including several Cook County judicial races.

In the race for the Illinois Supreme Court, Cong. Davis favors Justice P. Scott Neville, Jr.. For the Appellate Court, Davis endorses Judges Carolyn J. Gallagher (Neville, Jr. vacancy) and Sharon O. Johnson (Simon vacancy).

For the 7th Subcircuit, Davis recommends Pamela Reaves-Harris. (Her name is misspelled on the above card, as are the names of a couple of other candidates -- but I assume they don't mind.)

In countywide Circuit Court races, Cong. Davis's choices are:
Tiesha L. Smith - Bellows vacancy
James T. Derico, Jr. - Coghlan vacancy
U. O'Neal - Ford vacancy
Celestia L. Mays - Funderburk vacancy
Levander "Van" Smith, Jr. - Larsen vacancy
Arthur D. Sutton - Mason vacancy
Teresa O'Malley - McCarthy vacancy
Sheree Desiree Henry - Murphy Gorman vacancy
Lloyd James Brooks - O'Brien vacancy
Araceli Reyes De La Cruz - Roti vacancy
Deidre Baumann - C. Sheehan vacancy
Jill Rose Quinn - K. Sheehan vacancy
These endorsements are being added to the Organizing the Data posts.

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Citizens in Action for Better Government offers endorsements in Cook County judicial races

Another group with a high-sounding name, a website, and a Facebook presence, the Citizens in Action for Better Government is offering its endorsements for Tuesday's primary, as seen above.

At least this group has registered as a political action committee with the Illinois State Board of Elections. The listed chairperson is James Pelligrini; the treasurer is Daniel Donnelly.

I can't claim acquaintance with either one -- but this is hardly disqualifying for them, inasmuch as I know very few people, and few of the people I do know admit it. (I was doing social distancing -- not voluntarily, mind you, but I was doing it -- long before it became fashionable.)

Anyway, for what it's worth (there's a catchy phrase), the Citizens in Action for Better Government have endorsed John Garrido for the McGing vacancy in the 10th Subcircuit. In countywide races, the group has made the following endorsements:
Cristin Keely McDonald Duffy - Bellows vacancy
Aileen Bhandari - Coghlan vacancy
Jacqueline Marie Griffin - Funderburk vacancy
Megan Kathleen Mulay - Larsen vacancy
Joy E. Tolbert Nelson - Mason vacancy
Michael O'Malley - McCarthy vacancy
Amanda "Mandy" Pillsbury - Murphy Gorman vacancy
Elizabeth Anne Walsh - O'Brien vacancy
Lorraine Mary Murphy - Roti vacancy
James Samuel Worley - K. Sheehan vacancy
These endorsements are being added to the Organizing the Data posts.

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39th Ward Democratic Organization makes endorsements in many Cook County judicial races


According to the Cook County Democratic Party's website, the post of 39th Ward Committeeman is currently vacant, but State Sen. Ram Villivalam is running unopposed for the post in Tuesday's primary. And he's already assumed the reins.

FWIW has received an email from Sen. Villivalam advising of the 39th Ward Democrats' endorsements in several Cook County judicial races; a portion of that email is reproduced above. (The 39th Ward Democratic Organization's endorsements can also be found here.)

The reader will note that the 39th Ward follows the county slate in judicial races, with certain omissions.

No endorsement is offered in the Supreme Court race.

Nor are any endorsements offered for the Coghlan, Larsen, or O'Brien vacancies on the Circuit Court. Sen. Villivalam's email explains that neither he nor the 39th Ward Democratic Organization made any endorsements in these races because "Beth Ryan, Suzanne McNeely, and Heather Kent are running in this vacancies, respectively, and they are our neighbors in the 39th Ward." Those aren't endorsements that can be added to the Organizing the Data posts, not exactly, but the omission of the county party's slated candidates from the 39th Ward endorsement list may impact the results there.

In contested subcircuit races, the 39th Ward Democrats have endorsed Pamela "Pam" Stratigakis for the Axelrood vacancy in the 9th Subcircuit, Jon Stromsta for the McGing vacancy in the 10th Subcircuit, and Liam Kelly for the O'Brien vacancy in the 10th Subcircuit. These endorsements have been added to the Organizing the Data posts.

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45th Ward Independent Dems stick close to the county party's judicial slate


But... if you look closely... there are a couple of departures from the script.

For the countywide Coghlan vacancy, the 45th Ward Independent Dems abandon Judge James T. Derico, Jr. in favor of Aileen Bhandari. In the race for the C. Sheehan vacancy, Deidre Baumann is preferred over the slated Maura McMahon Zeller.

In the contested 10th Subcircuit races, the 45th Ward Independent Dems endorse Jon Stromsta (McGing vacancy) and Judge Mary Catherine Marubio (O'Brien vacancy).

These endorsements have been added to the Organizing the Data posts.

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Judicial endorsements by the 47th Ward Democratic Organization


According to the above flyer, the 47th Ward Democratic Organization is backing the entire countywide Democratic slate for both the Appellate Court and Circuit Court.

So that's not news.

In theory, when the Cook County Democratic Party sets a slate, all 80 committeemen, from each of the City's 50 wards, and each of the county's 30 townships, are supposed to support them, too. So I don't add the 47th Ward endorsements to the Organizing the Data posts in any of the countywide races. Dog bites man is not news.

But the subcircuits are another matter.

With the exception of Jon Stromsta in the 10th Subcircuit, I haven't been able to confirm who was slated by the committeemen in any of the three subcircuits. So I'll add the 47th's subcircuit endorsements in those Organizing the Data posts.

And... did you notice?

There's no endorsement made in the Supreme Court race by the 47th Ward Democratic Organization. That may be significant.

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Dorothy Brown offers her choices for Cook County judicial races


Outgoing Clerk of the Circuit Court Dorothy Brown has made some endorsements for Tuesday's primary.

It's easy to be snarky about this; there are few practicing lawyers who don't have a story or two about lost or missing pleadings or even whole court files. Many times, in preparing an index to an appellate record, I'd encounter motions, orders, or discovery responses from an entirely different case -- and in many cases I and my opponent would have to put together a stipulation, with file-stamped copies attached, to insert the actual necessary papers into a record.

Efiling has cured the worst of this -- especially when efiling was taken from Clerk Brown's control. When Clerk Brown had control of efiling, "free" filing wasn't free.

And Dorothy Brown always seemed to be running for another office -- and never getting there.

But all this is beside the point when it comes to elections.

Because when it came to getting elected as Clerk of the Circuit Court, and getting re-elected, Dorothy Brown won. Her most impressive reelection bid was her last, when she was dumped by the Democratic Party because, it was rumored, she was about to be indicted.

But she wasn't indicted.

And the good, church-going ladies and everyone else who had supported her in the past came out to support her again.

So while many practitioners may not be particularly concerned about Dorothy Brown's endorsements, I suggest that her recommendations may well translate into actual votes from persons that supported her in the past.

Without further preamble, then, Clerk Brown has endorsed Justice Nathaniel Roosevelt Howse for the Supreme Court and Judge Sharon O. Johnson for the Simon vacancy on the Appellate Court.

In contested countywide Circuit Court races, Dorothy Brown has made the following recommendations:
Tiesha L. Smith - Bellows vacancy
James T. Derico, Jr. - Coghlan vacancy
U. O'Neal - Ford vacancy
Celestia L. Mays - Funderburk vacancy
Levander "Van" Smith, Jr. - Larsen vacancy
Arthur D. Sutton - Mason vacancy
Sheree Desiree Henry - Murphy Gorman vacancy
Lloyd James Brooks - O'Brien vacancy
Deidre Baumann - C. Sheehan vacancy
The Organizing the Data posts are being updated accordingly.

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Thursday, March 12, 2020

Italian American Police Association of Illinois makes endorsements in Cook County judicial races


You have to dig a bit on the group's Facebook page to find them, but the Italian American Police Association of Illinois has made endorsements in several races, judicial and otherwise, on the March primary ballots.

The IAPA has endorsed two candidates in the race for the Illinois Supreme Court, Appellate Court Justices Jesse G. Reyes and Margaret Stanton McBride. The group endorsed Judge Carolyn J. Gallagher for the Neville, Jr. vacancy on the Illinois Appellate Court.

In countywide races for the Circuit Court, the IAPA endorsed:
Cristin Keely McDonald Duffy - Bellows vacancy
Elizabeth "Beth" Ryan - Coghlan vacancy
Laura Ayala-Gonzalez - Ford vacancy
Jacqueline Marie Griffin - Funderburk vacancy
Megan Kathleen Mulay - Larsen vacancy
Joy E. Tolbert Nelson - Mason vacancy
Michael O'Malley - McCarthy vacancy
Amanda "Mandy" Pillsbury - Murphy Gorman vacancy
Elizabeth Anne Walsh - O'Brien vacancy
Heather Anne Kent - O'Brien vacancy
Lorraine Mary Murphy - Roti vacancy
Russell W. Hartigan - C. Sheehan vacancy
In subcircuit races, the IAPA's choices were:
Erin Haggerty Antonietti - 3rd Subcircuit, Murphy vacancy

Pamela "Pam" Stratigakis - 9th Subcircuit, Axelrood vacancy

John Garrido - 10th Subcircuit, McGing vacancy
Daniel Alexander Trevino - 10th Subcircuit, O'Brien vacancy

Patricia M. Fallon - 12th Subcircuit, Hanlon vacancy
Frank R. DiFranco - 12th Subcircuit, Hanlon vacancy (Republican candidate)

Susanne Michelle Groebner - 13th Subcircuit, Kulys Hoffman vacancy

Heather Mulligan Begley - 15th Subcircuit, Griffin vacancy
These endorsements will be added to the Organizing the Data posts.

In other matters of potential interest to FWIW readers, the Italian American Police Association also endorsed Bob Fioretti and Christopher E.K. Pfannkuche for the Democratic and Republican nominations for Cook County State's Attorney. Richard Boykin was the group's choice for the Democratic nomination for Clerk of the Circuit Court.

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Indo-American Democratic Organization announces Cook County judicial endorsements

The Indo-American Democratic Organization has announced its endorsements for the March primary. For a complete list of IADO's endorsements, click here.

In contested Cook County judicial races, the IADO has made the following endorsements:

Supreme Court
Jesse G. Reyes - Freeman vacancy

Appellate Court
Michael B. Hyman - Neville vacancy
John Griffin - Simon vacancy

Countywide Vacancies
Kerrie Maloney Laytin - Bellows vacancy
Aileen Bhandari - Coghlan vacancy
Laura Ayala-Gonzalez - Ford vacancy
Celestia L. Mays - Funderburk vacancy
Suzanne Therese McEneely - Larsen vacancy
Teresa Molina - McCarthy vacancy
Heather Anne Kent - O'Brien vacancy
Araceli Reyes De La Cruz - Roti vacancy
Russell Hartigan - C.Sheehan vacancy
Jill Rose Quinn - K.Sheehan vacancy

Subcircuit Vacancies
Jamie Guerra Dickler - 6th Subcircuit, Nega vacancy
Eileen Marie O'Connor - 6th Subcircuit, Pantle vacancy

Jonathan Clark Green - 8th Subcircuit, Fleming vacancy

Pamela "Pam" Stratigakis - 9th Subcircuit, Axelrood vacancy
Michael Alan Strom - 9th Subcircuit, Luckman vacancy

Jon Stromsta - 10th Subcircuit, McGing vacancy

Patricia Fallon - 12th Subcircuit, Hanlon vacancy

Matt Flamm - 13th Subcircuit, Kulys Hoffman vacancy
Michael P. Gerber - 13th Subcircuit, Kulys Hoffman vacancy

These endorsements are being added to the Organizing the Data posts.

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The Soul Slate PAC announces Cook County judicial picks


There was a political action committee registered with the Illinois State Board of Elections called The Soul Slate Political Action Committee, but it was closed out before the turn of the century. And yet The Soul Slate PAC still exists, on Facebook if not elsewhere, and this is the slate it is promoting. These endorsements have been added to the Organizing the Data Posts.

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Organizing the Data: 12th Subcircuit - Hanlon vacancy

Updated March 12, 2020
Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary. Frank R. DiFranco also filed for this vacancy and is unopposed for the Republican nomination.

Patricia M. Fallon - #231



Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Judge Patricia M. Fallon is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Fallon was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and was appointed to the Circuit Court in 2019. Judge Fallon has practiced law in the private, corporate and government sectors. Judge Fallon is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, trial experience, and excellent temperament and demeanor.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Hon. Patricia Maria Fallon was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2001. Prior to her appointment to the Circuit Court, in 2019, she served as Chief of Human Resources for the Cook County Recorder of Deeds. From 2004 to 2017, she worked for the Labor and Employment Unit of the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, where she served as an Assistant State’s Attorney and also as a Supervisor (2015-17) and Deputy Supervisor (2013-2015).

Ms. Fallon is considered to have good legal ability with litigation experience in both state and federal court. She is described as hard-working with good temperament, and is praised for her supervisory skills. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Patricia Fallon has been licensed since 2001. She was appointed to the circuit court in July 2019 and currently sits in the First Municipal District – Traffic Section. From June 2017 until her appointment, she was chief of Human Resources at the Cook County Recorder of Deeds. She came to that position after spending thirteen years as an assistant state’s attorney in the Labor and Employment Unit becoming supervisor in 2015. Prior to joining the State’s Attorney’s Office, she had been a contract attorney for a law firm and for Abbott Laboratories. She has been on committees and a section council member for the Illinois State Bar Association and is a member of other bars. She has also done legal writing.

Attorneys gave favorable comments about her legal knowledge and ability, pointing to her experience in state and federal courts, diligence and good temperament. She has jury and pretrial motion experience and has handled appeals. She has appeared before several county and state agencies handling employment matters. ISBA finds Judge Patricia M. Fallon qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Qualified

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 Recommended

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Highly Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Chicago Federation of Labor
AMVOTE PAC
Indo-American Democratic Organization
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7
Italian American Police Association
Advocates Society (Recommended)
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Howard J. Wise - #232



Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Howard J. Wise is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Wise was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1997 and is currently in private practice concentrating in criminal law, traffic, DUI and personal injury matters. Mr. Wise is hardworking and well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, and fine temperament.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Howard Jay Wise was admitted to practice in 1997. He has been a sole practitioner since 2001 focusing on Criminal Law, Traffic, and Personal Injury matters. He served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney between 1998 and 2001.

Mr. Wise is considered to be a solid practitioner with good legal ability and temperament. He has substantial litigation experience. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Howard J. Wise has been licensed since 1997. He has been in private practice since 2001, currently with Howard J. Wise & Associates doing mainly criminal defense, DUI and traffic cases. From 1998 to 2001 he was an assistant state’s attorney; his assignments included Criminal Appeals, Traffic, Misdemeanors, Felony Preliminary Hearings, and Felony Review. He is a member of various bar associations.

He is considered to be smart and informed, professional and diligent. He has some jury trial experience and a lot of bench trial experience. ISBA finds Mr. Howard J. Wise qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Recommended

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Not Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsement
Chicago Tribune
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Carmine Trombetta - #233



Campaign Website


Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Carmine Trombetta 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:
Carmine Vincent Trombetta was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1983. Since 1984, he has worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Firm of Carmine V. Trombetta in Schaumberg. He represents clients in criminal cases, civil litigation, real estate, wills and trusts, and bankruptcy matters.

Mr. Trombetta is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. He has substantial litigation experience in a variety of both criminal and civil matters. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Carmine Trombetta has been licensed since 1983. He has his own general practice: Law Office of Carmine V. Trombetta, focusing on civil matters, real estate and bankruptcy matters.

Attorneys, including adversaries, report that he is prepared, hardworking and has a good understanding of legal issues. He has some jury experience, both civil and criminal. ISBA finds Mr. Carmine Trombetta qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Asian American Bar Association: Qualified

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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

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Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Organizing the Data: 14th Subcircuit - Bertucci vacancy

Updated March 16, 2020
Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy.

Gerardo Tristan, Jr. - #231


Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Judge Gerardo Tristan is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Tristan was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2002 and was appointed a Cook County Circuit Court Judge in 2019. Prior to his appointment to the bench, Judge Tristan served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney, First Chair, in a Felony Courtroom. Judge Tristan has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, fairness and fine temperament.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Hon. Gerardo Tristan Jr. was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2002 and was appointed to the Circuit Court by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2019. Before becoming a judge, he worked at Tristan & Cervantes as an associate, assisting the partners in their day-to-day legal obligations, focusing on labor, estate and business law. Then in 2003, Mr. Tristan began serving as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney.

Judge Tristan is considered to have good legal ability and had substantial litigation experience in more complex matters before becoming a judge. He is reported to have a good temperament and respondents praised his fairness. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Gerardo Tristan, Jr. was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2002. He was appointed to the Circuit Court in January 2019 and is currently assigned to the First Municipal District – Traffic Section. At the time of his appointment he had been an assistant state’s attorney for most of his career with assignments in Child Support, Juvenile Justice and Felony Trial. He is on the board of the Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois, has been a committee member for the Illinois State Bar Association and is a member of other legal groups.

He has substantial criminal jury and bench trial experience. Attorneys reported that he is very organized with a great demeanor and specifically noted his proficiency in the technological aspects of courtroom litigation. ISBA finds Judge Gerardo Tristan, Jr. qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Asian American Bar 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: Recommended

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Chicago Tribune
Chicago Federation of Labor
AMVOTE PAC
12th Ward Ald. George Cardenas
Democratic Citizens of Berwyn
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Steve Demitro - #232


No Campaign Website found (but there is a campaign Facebook page)

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Steve Demitro 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:
Not Recommended - Did not participate in the evaluation.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Steve Demitro declined to participate in the judicial evaluation process. Pursuant to ISBA guidelines, Mr. Steve Demitro is found to be 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 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

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

Endorsement
15th Ward Democratic Party

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Organizing the Data: Countywide O'Brien vacancy

Updated March 16, 2020
Updated March 14, 2020
Updated March 12, 2020
Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy.

Elizabeth Anne Walsh - #211



Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire


Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Elizabeth Anne Walsh is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Walsh was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2006 and concentrates her practice in personal injury and insurance defense matters. Ms. Walsh has had extensive trial experience and possesses the legal knowledge and experience to serve as a Circuit Court Judge.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Elizabeth A. Walsh was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2006. Since 2007, she has been an Attorney at Bruce Farrel Dorn & Associates, where she handles insurance defense cases. From 2006 to 2007, she was an Associate Attorney at Paul H. Wharton & Associates, where she defended personal injury actions.

Ms. Walsh is considered to have good legal ability. She is praised for her temperament and for her responsiveness to opposing counsel. She has substantial litigation experience. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Elizabeth Anne Walsh has been licensed since 2006. She handles insurance defense cases at Bruce Farrell Dorn and Associates. She is a past president and current board members of the Southwest Bar Association and is involved with the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois.

Attorneys respect her for her legal knowledge, preparation, temperament, and professionalism. She has substantial civil trial experience. ISBA finds Ms. Elizabeth Anne Walsh qualified to serve 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 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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Chicago Federation of Labor
Italian-American Police Association of Illinois
Citizens in Action for Better Government
New 26th Ward Independent Democratic Party
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Lloyd James Brooks - #212



Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Judge Lloyd James Brooks is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Judge Brooks was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2000 and was appointed to the bench in 2018 and is currently assigned to the First Municipal District. Judge Brooks presides over a high volume courtroom and hears a variety of cases involving wage garnishments, citations to discover assets, evictions, and supplementary proceedings. Judge Brooks is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal experience, and excellent demeanor.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Lloyd James Brooks was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2000. Since 2013, he has been a partner at the Consumer Legal Group, P.C., where he focuses on insurance coverage, consumer protection, and real estate and mortgage foreclosure defense. Previously, he was owner of The Brooks Law Firm (2004-2013); an associate at Lord, Bissell & Brook (2002-2004); and an associate at Zevnik Horton (2000-2002). Since 2008, he has taken on pro bono cases for the Access to Justice Program at Chicago Volunteer Legal Services.

Mr. Brooks is considered to have good legal ability. He is considered to be well-prepared with a good grasp of the law and procedure. He is reported to have an excellent temperament – a zealous advocate while showing respect for opposing counsel and judges. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Lloyd James Brooks was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2000. In December 2018 he was appointed to the circuit court and currently sits in the First Municipal District. After being licensed he worked for two law firms before opening his own practice in 2004 where he concentrated on consumer advocacy cases. In 2013 he became a founding partner of the Consumer Legal Group where he worked until his appointment. He has some bar association memberships and engages in community speaking.

He is considered to be professional and well-prepared with excellent legal knowledge. As a practicing attorney he was a zealous advocate with a diverse clientele. ISBA finds Judge Lloyd James Brooks qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of candidate

Asian American Bar Association: Qualified

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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Cook County Democratic Party
Chicago Tribune
IVI-IPO
Chicago NOW PAC
Personal PAC
Cong. Danny Davis
The Soul Slate
Dorothy Brown
Advocates Society (Recommended)
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Heather Anne Kent - #213



Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Heather Anne Kent is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Kent was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2006 and has served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for the past 13 years. Ms. Kent is currently assigned to the Felony Trial Division at the George M. Leighton Criminal Court. Ms. Kent has extensive trial experience and is well regarded by defense counsel and the judges before whom she appears for her knowledge of the law, legal ability, and excellent demeanor.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Heather Kent Jacobsmeier was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2006. Since that time, she has served as an Assistant State’s Attorney at the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, where her assignments have included Second Chair, Felony Trial Division (2016-present);Trial Supervisor, Felony Review Unit (2018); and Third Chair, Felony Trial Division (2013-2016); Preliminary Hearings and Grand Jury Unit (2013); Felony Review Unit (2011-2013); Delinquency Division (2009-2011), Child Protection Division (2007-2009) of the Juvenile Justice Bureau; and the First Municipal Division of the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau (2006-2007).

Ms. Kent Jacobsmeier is considered to have good legal ability. She is reported to have good temperament and respondents noted her high integrity. She has substantial litigation experience. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Heather Anne Kent has been licensed since 2006. She is a career assistant state’s attorney who has been assigned to the Felony Trial, Sexual Assault and Juvenile Justice divisions. She has coached mock trial teams, lectured, is a member of several bar associations, and participates in community activities.

She has criminal jury trial experience and is considered to be prepared, even-handed and of high character. ISBA finds Ms. Heather Anne Kent qualified to serve 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 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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
41st Ward Regular Democratic Organization
38th Ward Ald. Nicholas Sposato
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7
Italian American Police Association
United Hellenic Voters of America
Indo-American Democratic Organization
Chicago NOW PAC
Advocates Society (Recommended)

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Organizing the Data: Countywide McCarthy vacancy

Updated March 14, 2020
Updated March 12, 2020
Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy.

Teresa Molina - #204


Campaign Website

Law Bulletin Questionnaire

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Teresa Molina is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Molina was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is currently serving as Chief of Real Estate Prosecution at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Ms. Molina has significant trial experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal experience, fine demeanor and temperament.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Hon. Teresa Molina was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 2001. Since July 24, 2019, she has served as a Cook County Circuit Court Judge, where she is assigned to the Traffic Section of the First Municipal District. Before becoming a judge, she served as Chief of Prosecutions for the Division of Real Estate in the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (2016-2019) and as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Cook County State’s Attorney Office (2001-2016), where she prosecuted criminal felonies and misdemeanors as well as civil cases related to the enforcement of child support.

Judge Molina is considered to have good legal ability. She had received good marks as a hard-working prosecutor before taking the bench. She is considered to be a good jurist in the limited time she has been on the bench. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Teresa Molina was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2001. She was appointed to the circuit court in July 2019 and is currently assigned to the Municipal Department – Traffic. Prior to her appointment she was the chief of Real Estate Prosecutions for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations where she had been employed since 2016. Prior to that she had been an assistant state’s attorney where her assignments included Child Support and Felony Trial. She has been a committee chair for the Puerto Rican Bar Association, is a member of several bar associations, conducted training for the Chicago Police Department, and lectured on real estate law.

She received favorable comments regarding her temperament, diligence and integrity, and is considered to have a high level of legal knowledge and ability. As a prosecutor, she litigated more than 25 criminal jury trials. ISBA finds Judge Teresa Molina qualified to serve 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 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 Recommended

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Cook County Democratic Party
Chicago Tribune
Chicago Federation of Labor
AMVOTE PAC
Indo-American Democratic Organization
Cong. Danny Davis
Personal PAC
Advocates Society (Recommended)
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Michael O'Malley - #205


Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Michael O’Malley is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. O’Malley was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2005 and is currently a Deputy Supervisor in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Mr. O’Malley served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for 14½ years and is highly respected by his colleagues for his knowledge of the law, diligence, and fine temperament.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Michael O’Malley was admitted to practice in 2005. He serves as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney in the Civil Bureau. From 2013 to 2015 he was in the Special Prosecutions Bureau. He has worked in the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau and in the Child Support Unit. He is considered to have good legal ability. He is reported to have a good knowledge of the laws and has substantial litigation-related experience. He is praised for his temperament and for his litigation skills. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Michael O’Malley has been licensed since 2005. He is a career assistant state’s attorney. He has been assigned to various units including Felony Trial, the Civil Actions Bureau and the Special Prosecutions Bureau, Public Corruption and Financial Crimes Unit. He is a member of various bar associations, has community involvement, and has coached law school trial teams.

Attorneys report that he is a straight shooter with excellent legal knowledge and is always prepared. He has some jury trial experience and has prosecuted complex financial crimes. ISBA finds Mr. Michael O’Malley qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Asian American Bar 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: Recommended

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
IVI-IPO
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7
Italian American Police Association
Citizens in Action for Better Government
41st Ward Regular Democratic Organization
38th Ward Ald. Nicholas Sposato
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Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Organizing the Data: 9th Subcircuit - Axelrood vacancy

Updated March 14, 2020
Updated March 12, 2020
Candidates are listed in the order that they appear on the ballot in the Democratic primary; no Republican filed for this vacancy.

Pamela "Pam" Stratigakis - #231


Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Pamela “Pam” Stratigakis is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Ms. Stratigakis was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is currently engaged in private practice concentrating in civil litigation, medical malpractice, healthcare, and the Nursing Home Care Act. Ms. Stratigakis served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney from 2003-2019 and served as First Chair in the Felony Trial Division. Ms. Stratigakis served on the Internet Sex Crimes Against Children Task Force and was engaged in groundbreaking litigation against people involved in Internet sex crimes. Ms. Stratigakis has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for her fine temperament and knowledge of both criminal and civil law.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Pamela J. Stratigakis was admitted to practice in 2001. She is Partner/Of Counsel at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP, where she handles cases involving long-term care and elder law, health care, and medical malpractice. From 2003 to August 2019, she served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, where her assignments included Felony Trial Division, First Chair, Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Division; Special Prosecutor, Office of Violence Against Women, Women VOICES Campus Initiative Grant (2015-2018); the Special Litigation Unit; the Post-Conviction Unit; the Narcotics Division; and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. From 2001 to 2003, she was an Associate Attorney at the Huppert Richard and Wood Law Firm, where she handled civil litigation, contracts for commercial and corporate transactions, business agreements, acquisitions, and sales mergers.

Ms. Stratigakis is considered to have good legal ability and has litigation experience in both criminal and civil matters. She is praised for her litigation skills and for her temperament. The Council finds her Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Pamela Stratigakis was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2001. In August 2019, after spending sixteen years as an assistant state’s attorney, she joined Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith as a partner handling insurance defense for medical malpractice cases. As an assistant state’s attorney, her assignments included Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Division, Child Support, Narcotics, and Felony Review. She has spoken on legal topics and internet safety, is a member of several bar associations, and is on the board of the North Suburban Bar Association.

She has substantial criminal jury and bench trial experience. Attorneys praised her legal knowledge and ability, her diligence, demeanor, and professionalism. ISBA finds Ms. Pamela Stratigakis qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Recommended

Asian American Bar 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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Highly Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Chicago Federation of Labor
Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No. 7
Italian American Police Association
41st Ward Regular Democratic Organization
39th Ward Democratic Organization
United Hellenic Voters of America
Indo-American Democratic Organization
Chicago NOW PAC
Personal PAC

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Thomas M. Cushing - #232



Campaign Website


Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Thomas Cushing is “Highly Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Cushing was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1988 and was engaged in private practice from 1988-2005 concentrating in civil trial and appellate work. Mr. Cushing worked for the Chicago Climate Exchange from 2006-2010 and as the Managing Director of Public Policy for the Delta Institute, after which he re-entered private practice as of counsel to a small firm. Mr. Cushing has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, diligence, work ethic, and fine temperament.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Hon. Thomas Maloney Cushing was admitted to practice in Illinois in 1988. He was appointed to the bench by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2019. Before taking the bench, he was of counsel to the offices of Christopher A. Kreid and Associates, focusing on commercial and chancery litigation. From 2006-2010, Mr. Cushing was Senior Vice President for Membership at the Chicago Climate Exchange, applying his legal skills in a business/environmental policy role. From 2005-2006, he was principal in his own law practice, specializing in personal injury practice. During this time, he also assisted Counsel to the Shakman Decree Monitor. From 1988-2005, he was an associate at Ambrose & Cushing, specializing in civil trials, particularly personal injury, professional malpractice, and municipal liability. Since 2013, he has volunteered as a Hearing Board Member at the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission.

As a lawyer Judge Cushing is reported to have been a solid practitioner with very good ability and an excellent temperament. He has substantial litigation experience in complex matters, and is praised for his litigation skills and for his temperament. He has been involved with numerous community activities, including teaching and environmental advocacy. The Council finds him Well Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Thomas M. Cushing has been licensed since 1988. He was appointed to the circuit court in June 2019 and is currently assigned to Domestic Violence. Prior to his appointment he had been ‘of counsel’ to Christopher Kreid & Associates since 2010. Before joining that firm, from 2006 to 2010 he had been senior vice president at the Chicago Climate Exchange. He also had his own practice for many years before that handling professional and municipal liability matters. He was assisting counsel on the Shakman Decree case. He has taught trial practice, written and spoken on legal matters; was a hearing board member for the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission; and a volunteer with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services.

He has extensive civil jury and bench trial experience in both state and federal courts. Attorneys universally praised his experience, diligence and demeanor; he is considered to be well-versed in evidence. ISBA finds Judge Thomas M. Cushing qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Asian American Bar 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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Endorsements
Chicago Tribune
Democratic Party of the 49th Ward
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Ira I. Silverstein - #233


No known Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Ira I. Silverstein is “Not Recommended” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Silverstein was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1985 and is currently a sole practitioner engaged in the general practice of law. Mr. Silverstein served as an Illinois State Senator from 1999-2018. In 2017, a complaint involving harassment was filed against Senator Silverstein, which was investigated by the Inspector General who found in 2018 that Senator Silverstein’s conduct was unbecoming of a legislator. This incident and Mr. Silverstein’s limited practice and court experience resulted in a “Not Recommended” finding.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Ira I. Silverstein was admitted to practice in 1985. He was an elected official serving as a State Senator of the 8th District from 1999 to 2018. He has been a sole practitioner from July 1988 to the present, handling civil litigation and probate. From 1988 to approximately 1990, he co-counseled for a collection law firm, handling more than 30 trials a year. He was accused of harassment but was cleared after an investigation by the legislative inspector general. But the inspector general’s report found that he have behaved in a way “unbecoming of a legislator.” He lost his re-election bid in 2018.

Mr. Silverstein is considered to have good legal ability and temperament. He has had litigation experience throughout his extensive legal career. The Council is concerned about his past ethical lapse. On balance, the Council finds him Not Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Ira I. Silverstein was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1985. He is a sole practitioner focusing on domestic relations, real estate and guardianship. From 1999 to 2018 he was a state senator in the Illinois Legislature representing the Eighth District. He was chair of the Illinois Senate Judiciary Committee and a member of both the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission and the Holocaust and Genocide Commission.

While some attorneys gave positive comments about his diligence and knowledge, concerns were raised about the depth and breadth of his legal experience and his lack of litigation experience. In addition, a harassment complaint filed against him in 2017 resulted in a finding by the Inspector General that his conduct was unbecoming for a legislator, with a recommendation for ethics counseling. ISBA finds Mr. Ira I. Silverstein not qualified to serve as a judge to the Circuit Court of Cook County.
Other Bar Association Evaluations

Arab American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Asian American Bar Association: Not evaluated through no fault of the candidate

Black Women Lawyers' Association: Not Recommended

Cook County Bar Association: Not Recommended

Decalogue Society of Lawyers: Recommended

Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois: Not Recommended

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

Endorsement
Niles Township Democrats
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Timothy Patrick Carter - #234



Campaign Website

Bar Association Evaluation Narratives

The Chicago Bar Association says:
Timothy Patrick Carter is “Qualified” for the office of Circuit Court Judge. Mr. Carter was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1995 and served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney for 16 years before entering private practice. Mr. Carter is currently engaged in private practice concentrating largely in criminal matters. Mr. Carter has extensive trial experience and is well regarded for his knowledge of the law, legal ability, diligence and fine demeanor.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers says:
Timothy Patrick Carter was admitted to practice in 1995. He has been in private practice since 2012 and served as an Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney from 1992 to 2012. He is considered to a solid practitioner with good legal ability and temperament. He is praised for his litigation skills, and has substantial litigation experience. The Council finds him Qualified for the Circuit Court.
The Illinois State Bar Association says:
Timothy Patrick Carter has been licensed since 1995. He has been in private practice since 2012 currently with Carter & Opdyke, PC focusing on criminal defense. From 1996 to 2012 he was an assistant state’s attorney serving in the Appeals, Traffic, Juvenile, and Felony Trial divisions. He has been a moot court judge, is a member of several bar associations and is a past president of the Northfield Bar Association.

He has extensive jury and bench trial experience including in complex matters. He is well-respected for his legal knowledge and ability, integrity and professionalism. He treats all with respect and is fair and diligent. ISBA finds Mr. Timothy Patrick Carter qualified to serve 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 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

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago: Recommended

Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

Women's Bar Association of Illinois: Recommended

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