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Candidate has not yet responded.
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Experience counts; that's why it's called the "practice" of law. I have practiced law for 38 years. However, it is not just the length of time I’ve practiced that makes me the most qualified for the position, but the diversity of my experience as well. Unlike other candidates, I have represented both plaintiffs and defendants, at trial and on appeal. I have represented individuals, small businesses, and Fortune 500 corporations in a wide range of matters, including commercial/insurance disputes, personal injury claims, employment disputes, estate administration, and business transactions. This experience has given me a sound understanding of the types of cases and the procedural and substantive issues that will come before the court.
First, just follow the law. Apply the law equally to everyone regardless of their age, race, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, citizenship, or immigration status. Next, stay in your lane. The judiciary is one of three branches of government, and it is important to maintain that separation of powers to ensure the balanced and efficient operation of all three branches at both the state and federal level. Judges are responsible for interpreting and applying the law and should avoid usurping the legislature’s authority by making the law from the bench. If the law needs to be changed, change it through the legislative process and not by judicial fiat.
Ensuring that those who do not have the economic means to effectively participate in the justice system still receive competent representation and equal treatment under the law. Ensuring the rights of the mentally disabled are protected, while still providing them with mental health services before they violate the rights of others.
Judges may be the most visible part of the justice system. Because of this, judges have the primary responsibility to improve the public's perception and understanding of the judicial process.
Under the Code of Judicial Conduct, judges must recuse themselves if they have a financial interest in the case, a personal bias or prejudice that impacts their impartiality, family relationships with parties or lawyers, prior involvement as counsel, or have made public statements on the outcome. Judges should also voluntarily recuse themselves whenever their impartiality might reasonably be questioned.
Campaign Phone
815-293-7472
Since being appointed an Associate Circuit Judge in 2019, I have presided over multiple courtrooms. These courtrooms include the guardianship, juvenile abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, adoption and criminal courtrooms. This varied experience has prepared me well for the appellate court. Additionally, prior to my appointment, I practiced law for 14 years. The focus of my practice was complex civil litigation, often touching on areas of international law. I have litigated in state and federal courts throughout the country, including the United States Supreme Court. Through my practice, I have developed excellent research and writing skills, essential skills for appellate court justices.
I approach each case to which I am assigned with an absolute commitment and fidelity to the rule of law. As such, I believe that everyone must be afforded equal access to justice, equal access to be heard and certain guaranteed fundamental due process rights.
Also, it is important to note that every decision I make is based upon the facts and law before me. Neither my personal beliefs nor my politics play a role in my decisions.
Litigating in U.S. courts, including Illinois courts, is expensive. Often times, extraordinarily expensive. I believe this expense, whether the cost of retaining an experienced attorney, litigation costs, court costs or any affiliated costs, presents the most significant obstacle to justice in our legal system.
Another significant obstacle is that many citizens have lost faith in the fairness of our legal system. They no longer believe that our system guarantees equal access to justice and an equal opportunity to be heard. To regain this faith, our system requires good judges, working together with good attorneys and judicial partners, all with a shared commitment to the rule of law.
Judges are given positions of tremendous power and responsibility in our communities. As such, I believe that judges have an obligation to speak and work with community members outside of the courtroom to improve the public understanding of the legal system. Personally, I have chosen to speak with student groups about the law and our court system. Over the years, I have spoken with student groups from college through junior high school.
I would, of course, disqualify myself from any case in which a friend, family member or colleague was a litigant, witness or party attorney. Additionally, any case in which I (or an immediate family member) had a financial interest would require my recusal.
Further, any case in which, for whatever reason, I would find it difficult to remain impartial would require my recusal.
Campaign Phone
6302910947
I have been a lawyer for 34 years and I was elected as a Circuit Court Judge in DuPage county in 2020. During my years of practice I have written and argued dozens of cases in the Illinois Appellate Court and the Illinois Supreme Court. I also have extensive practice in the Federal District Court and arguing before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. I have co authored a Brief in the United States Supreme Court.
Since be elected in 2020, I have been sitting in the Felony Division and I am currently the presiding Judge of the Felony Division. I oversee 6 felony courtrooms, drug court and first appearance court in DuPage County.
I believe in accessible justice for all individuals in the court system. Fairness only works when everyone can be heard. I believe that we must protect our fundamental rights which are currently under attack. As Judges, we are the last line of defense in protecting and upholding the rule of law. The law must be applied fairly, without agenda, to ensure justice and equal rights for everyone.
Access to the judicial system is the largest issue that i perceive at this time. We must strive to make the courts accessible to all no matter their disability, income and socio economic status.
I believe that it our obligation to engage in public outreach. This insures that we understand the obstacles that are faced by litigants. By listening and engaging with our community we can improve access to the courts for all individuals.
None at this time.
