Electing Judges: Where to Find Information

October 2, 2020

Voters in Illinois elect judges. Because choosing qualified judges is critical to ensure a fair and effective judicial system, it is paramount that you have the information you need to make an informed decision. In addition to candidates running for their first term, sitting judges face yes-or-no retention elections in order to remain on the bench.

Thankfully, Bar Associations evaluate judicial candidates and publish their recommendations. Bar Associations possess excellent knowledge of what to look for in a judge. Many of the attorneys have worked with the candidates or have practiced in front of the sitting judges they are evaluating. Besides the large associations that cover entire jurisdictions, a number of smaller Bar Associations that represent different ethnicities and interest groups also rate the candidates. 

The Alliance of Bar Associations collects these recommendations and creates a grid showing how each Bar Association rated the candidate. Use this information to make an informed choice when you cast your ballot. The recommendations can be found at voteforjudges.org and at this document. 

For more information about how to vote in the 2020 Election, see Vote-By-Mail: A Brief Guide.