PREFACE
This Report is published by the State of Illinois Judicial
Inquiry Board, the sole disciplinary entity to inquire into allegations
of misconduct or physical or mental incapacity of Illinois judicial officers.
After investigation and upon determination by the Judicial Inquiry Board that there is a reasonable basis to charge a judge with misconduct or incapacity, the Judicial Inquiry Board will file and prosecute a formal complaint before the State of Illinois Courts Commission.
This report explains briefly the authority, duties and procedures of the Judicial Inquiry Board, provides a compilation of complaints received during *Fiscal Years 1996, 1997 and 1998, and provides a capsular view of formal complaints filed against judges with the Illinois Courts Commission through June 30, 1998.
* The State of Illinois' Fiscal Year is July 1st through June 30th.
CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY
Beginning in 1960 with California and concluding in 1981 with
Washington, every state in the United States and the District of Columbia
has established formal procedures to address questions of judicial misconduct
and physical or mental incapacity. The majority of states created judicial
disciplinary systems by constitutional provision and a minority have done
so by legislation. The present Illinois system was established by Article
VI of the Illinois Constitution adopted in 1970 to take effect July 1,
1971. There is no enabling legislation in Illinois affecting this constitutional
scheme.
The applicable provisions of Article VI, Section 15, are as follows:
(b) A Judicial Inquiry Board is created. The Supreme Court shall select two Circuit Judges as members and the Governor shall appoint four persons who are not lawyers and three lawyers as members of the Board. No more than two of the lawyers and two of the non-lawyers appointed by the Governor shall be members of the same political party. The terms of Board members shall be four years. A vacancy on the Board shall be filled for a full term in the manner the original appointment was made. No member may serve on the Board more than eight years.
(c) The Board shall be convened permanently, with authority to conduct investigations, receive or initiate complaints concerning a Judge or Associate Judge, and file complaints with the Courts Commission. The Board shall not file a complaint unless five members believe that a reasonable basis exists (1) to charge the Judge or Associate Judge with willful misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform his duties, or other conduct that is prejudicial to the administration of justice or that brings the judicial office into disrepute, or (2) to charge that the Judge or Associate Judge is physically or mentally unable to perform his duties. All proceedings of the Board shall be confidential except the filing of a complaint with the Courts Commission. The Board shall prosecute the complaint.
(d) The Board shall adopt rules governing its procedures. It shall have subpoena power and authority to appoint and direct its staff. Members of the Board who are not Judges shall receive per diem compensation and necessary expenses; members who are Judges shall receive necessary expenses only. The General Assembly by law shall appropriate funds for the operation of the Board.
(e) A Courts Commission is created consisting of one Supreme Court Judge selected by that Court, who shall be its Chairman, two Appellate Court Judges selected by that Court, and two Circuit Judges selected by the Supreme Court. The Commission shall be convened permanently to hear complaints filed by the Judicial Inquiry Board. The Commission shall have authority after notice and public hearing, (1) to remove from office, suspend without pay, censure or reprimand a Judge or Associate Judge for willful misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform his duties, or other conduct that is prejudicial to the administration of justice or that brings the judicial office into disrepute, or (2) to suspend, with or without pay, or retire a Judge or Associate Judge who is physically or mentally unable to perform his duties.
(f) The concurrence of three members of the Commission shall be necessary for a decision. The decision of the Commission shall be final.
(g) The Commission shall adopt rules governing its procedures and shall have power to issue subpoenas. The General Assembly shall provide by law for the expenses of the Commission.
PROCEDURES
When an allegation of misconduct or incapacity is made against
a judge, the Board acknowledges receipt of the allegation in writing. The
Executive Director may authorize a preliminary inquiry. The nine-member
Board will review the allegation at its monthly meeting to determine whether
an investigation or further Board action is warranted.
The Board has only limited authority to correct perceived shortcomings in the administration of justice. It cannot intervene in ongoing litigation, have a judge removed from a case, review judicial decisions, take action against judges for being "too hard" or "too soft" in sentencing or for setting bond "too high" or "too low". The Board has no jurisdiction over lawyers, police, court personnel or anyone other than judges of the State of Illinois.
Like most other states, the initial investigation by the Board is conducted on a confidential basis. The matter remains confidential until a determination is made to publicly charge a judge with misconduct. Should someone other than a Board or staff member make public the existence of a Board inquiry or investigation, such disclosure is not within the authority of the Board to address. This constitutional requirement of confidentiality protects the judiciary from unjust criticism and protects those who furnish information to the Board. The confidentiality requirement also means, however, that the Board cannot discuss its investigations with third parties and will not engage in debate over why it did or did not publicly charge a judge in a particular situation.
In those cases where the Board does file a formal complaint with the Courts Commission, the Board serves as prosecutor in the proceedings before the Commission. If the Commission sustains the complaint, it has the sole authority to impose a penalty of reprimand, censure, suspension without pay or removal from office.
The many grievances to the Board that do not result in charges being filed with the Courts Commission are nonetheless helpful in the improvement of the judicial system. Sometimes, the judge under investigation will retire prior to a Complaint being filed with the Illinois Courts Commission. Also, a complaint of a single instance of alleged judicial impropriety, standing alone, may not be sufficient to publicly charge a judge before the Courts Commission, but subsequent complaints against the same judge may ultimately call for Board action. The availability of such a mechanism to the public for the expression of grievances is a very real, though intangible, benefit.
The Board has adopted Rules of Procedure pursuant to its Constitutional authority, which are set forth in this Report. The Rules of Procedure of the Courts Commission and the Code of Judicial Conduct are also set forth in this Report.
MEMBERSHIP
The current nine members of the Board are serving staggered
terms with vacancies filled in the same manner the original appointment
was made. Biographies of current members and a listing of past members
are found in Appendices A and B. The current Chair is Sandra R. Otaka,
Esq. She was preceded by William F. Conlon, Esq. 1992-1997, Tyrone C. Fahner
1988-1992, Robert P. Cummins 1979-1987, C. George Niebank 1975-1979, and
Richard T. Dunn 1971-1975.
Monthly meetings are usually held in the Board's Chicago office.
The Board employs a full-time staff of an Executive Director/General Counsel, an Administrative Assistant, two Investigators and an Executive Secretary. It retains outside counsel to prosecute formal complaints before the Courts Commission and to represent Board members and staff in any litigation arising out of the performance of their official duties. Its present outside counsel is Jeffrey E. Stone of McDermott, Will & Emery.
INVESTIGATIONS
During Fiscal Years 1996, 1997 and 1998 the Board received a
combined total of 1,202 requests for an investigation of a judge
or associate judge. Seventy-five percent of the files opened were closed
upon initial review by the Board because the conduct complained of did
not constitute judicial misconduct under the law and standards of judicial
conduct in Illinois. Most often these files concerned a losing litigant's
subjective perception that justice was not obtained in his or her cause.
By declining to investigate, the Board does not pass judgment on the validity
of these grievances which is the sole responsibility of the Appellate Courts,
but observes the limits on the scope of the Board's authority.
Investigations were conducted into the remaining twenty-five percent of the complaints. Investigations can entail writing a letter to the judge to request his or her explanation of the matter, review of court and non-court documents, interviewing the complainant as well as other potential witnesses, monitoring of courtrooms, etc. Investigations are continued until the Board has sufficient information upon which to base a final determination. Statistical information regarding complaints is found in Appendix C.
If the Board, in its final analysis of the investigated complaints determines that there is insufficient cause to continue, the matter is closed. Complaints that warrant further action may require the judge under investigation to appear before the Board and respond to questioning regarding possible formal charges. Since 1971, the Board has filed 63 formal Complaints against judges with the Illinois Courts Commission. A summary of all complaints filed with the Illinois Courts Commission and dispositions are found in Appendix D.
IMPAIRMENT
Alcohol or drug abuse by a judicial officer may suggest a possible
impairment in the performance of judicial duties. In the absence of associated
judicial misconduct, the Board initially pursues such matters with a view
towards medical intervention. If it appears that instances of misconduct
resulted from alcohol or drug abuse, the Board will emphasize medical treatment
while mindful of its public responsibility to charge and prosecute aberrant
conduct.
INCAPACITY
A sensitive and difficult problem confronting the Board is the
physically and mentally incapacitated judge. This issue can arise concerning
a judge who has given many years of able service to the State. Most judges
who become physically or mentally disabled retire without any action on
the part of the Board. In other cases, the fact that an investigation was
initiated may lead to a voluntary decision by the judge to retire.
(Established Pursuant to Article VI, Section 15 (b), (c) & (d), Illinois State Constitution, 1970)
RULE 1 - DEFINITIONS
When used in these Rules:
(a) "Constitution" means the 1970 Constitution of the State of Illinois.
(b) "Board" means the Judicial Inquiry Board created by the Constitution, Article VI, Section 15(b), (c) and (d).
(c) "Commission" means the Courts Commission created by the Constitution, Article VI, Section 15(e), (f) and (g).
(d) "Judge" means a judge or associate judge of the Supreme Court, the Appellate Court or any Circuit Court of the State of Illinois.
(e) The term "misconduct" when used in reference to a judge or associate judge means and includes judicial misconduct (as distinguished from physical or mental disability) for which a judge is subject to discipline under the law and Constitution of Illinois and the rules adopted by the Supreme Court pursuant to Section 13(a) of Article VI of the Constitution.
(f) The term "disability" when used in reference to a judge means a physical or mental disability to perform his duties.
RULE 2 - BOARD PERSONNEL
(a) The Board shall, with the concurrence of at least five members, designate a Chair and a Vice-Chair, each to serve for a term of one year and until the designation, in like manner, of his or her respective successor.
(b) The Chair shall be the chief executive officer of the Board, shall preside at all meetings of the Board, and shall perform such other duties and have such other authority as the Board may delegate.
(c) The Vice-Chair shall, in the absence or disability of the Chair, perform the duties and exercise the authorities of the Chair.
(d) The Board may hire a staff, including an Executive Director.
RULE 3 - MEETINGS
(a) Meetings shall be held from time to time pursuant to the call of the Chair or three members of the Board.
(b) Written notice stating the time and place of meetings shall be given to members of the Board at least two days prior to each meeting.
(c) Five members of the Board shall constitute a quorum of the Board. The act of a majority of the members present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board unless the act of a greater number is required by the Constitution or by these Rules of Procedure.
(d) Any action, except a determination to file a complaint, required to be taken by the Board or at any meeting of the Board shall be deemed the action of the Board if all members of the Board execute, either before or after the action is taken, a written consent thereto and the consent is filed with the records of the Board.
RULE 4 - EXERCISE OF THE POWERS OF THE BOARD
(a) The Board (1) on its own motion, or (2) in response to information received by it tending to suggest that a judge is guilty of misconduct or is suffering from a disability, and which is not, on preliminary examination or inquiry, determined to be patently frivolous or unfounded, may initiate and conduct an investigation to determine whether a reasonable basis exists for the filing of a complaint with the Commission. During an investigation, the Board may request a judge voluntarily to appear and discuss issues relating to conduct under investigation.
(b) Following an investigation, the Board may determine that a reasonable basis exists to charge a judge with misconduct or disability in a complaint filed with the Commission. Such determination shall require the concurrence of not less than five members of the Board.
(c) In determining whether a reasonable basis exists to charge a judge with misconduct or disability, the Board will consider the rules of conduct for judges and associate judges adopted by the Supreme Court of Illinois, the provisions of Sections 15(c) and 15(e) of Article VI of the 1970 Illinois Constitution and Section 13(b) of Article VI of the 1970 Illinois Constitution.
(d) The Board shall, before proceeding to a determination that a reasonable basis exists to charge the judge before the Courts Commission, give the judge written notice of the substance of the proposed charge. This written notice will set forth a date, place and time at which the judge shall be required to appear before the Board, accompanied by counsel if the judge so elects.
(e) During this required appearance before the Board, the judge shall be questioned by the Board concerning the proposed charge, and the judge will be given the opportunity to make such statement in respect to the proposed charge as he/she may desire. In addition, the judge will be given the opportunity to present to the Board such information, oral or written (including the names of any witness he/she may wish to have heard by the Board) in respect to the proposed charge as he/she may desire. Such written information and names of witnesses shall be forwarded to the Board not less than 5 days prior to the judge's appearance. A judge may, upon concurrence of the Board, in his/her own person or through counsel, in writing waive his/her required appearance before the Board to respond to charges. (Amended effective April 10, 1998.)
(f) No hearing of or appearance before the Board shall be continued except upon written motion supported by good cause. No hearing of or appearance before the Board shall be continued more than once except under extraordinary circumstances.
(g) The Board shall not disclose the identity of any informant or complainant or any witness unless the Board shall determine that such disclosure is required by the circumstances of the case.
(h) The Board shall not be bound by formal rules of evidence.
(i) Nothing contained in these Rules shall be construed as granting any judge the right to examine or cross-examine witnesses who may be heard by the Board or to have subpoenas issued by the Board on his behalf, provided, however, that the Board, in its discretion, may permit such action.
(j) Upon a finding by the Board that a reasonable basis exists for the filing of a complaint against a judge before the Commission, the Board shall designate one or more licensed attorneys-at-law who are not members of the Board to conduct the prosecution of the complaint before the Commission.
(k) Where the Board determines that a judge's conduct does not warrant initiation of formal proceedings at that time, the Board may issue a letter to the judge, calling the judge's attention to conduct which should be avoided in the future. (April 10, 1998)
RULE 5 - CONFIDENTIALITY
(a) The proceedings of the Board and all information and materials, written or oral, received or developed by the Board in the course of its work, insofar as such proceedings and information or materials relate to the question of whether a judge is guilty of misconduct or suffers from disability, shall be confidential and privileged as a matter of law.
(b) When the Board has conducted an investigation but determined not to propose any charges to the judge in question, the Board shall by letter notify the judge and the person, if any, who had brought the matter to the attention of the Board, that such a determination has been made; provided, however, that no such information need be furnished to the judge unless it appears to the Board that he knows, or has reason to know, that a communication was made about him or her to the Board or that the Board conducted an investigation which involved the judge.
(c) When the Board has conducted an investigation and proposed charges to a judge, and subsequently determined that a reasonable basis does not exist for the filing of a complaint with the Commission, the Board shall by letter notify the judge and the person, if any, who had brought the matter to the attention of the Board, that such a determination has been made. The issuance of such letters does not mean that the repetition of such charged conduct, or other conduct violations coupled with the charged conduct or repetitions thereof, could not give rise to a future determination that a reasonable basis exists for the filing of a complaint with the Commission.
(d) In matters of contempt or perjury in Board proceedings, the Board may initiate appropriate action, including court proceedings, in order to protect the integrity of Board proceedings. When the Board takes such action, the Board may make such disclosures as are necessary to prosecute the action. (Amended effective April 10, 1998.)
(e) After any disposition of a matter, the Board, if it believes that fairness and the public interest require it, may issue a public announcement of the Board's determination.
(f) When the Board is in the process of conducting an investigation based upon factors or complaints submitted by the subject judge's chief or factors already disclosed to the public by some other manner, and where that chief judge, pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 56, has temporarily assigned the judge to restricted duties or duties other than judicial duties, the Board may advise the chief judge when, and if, it is of the opinion that the judge subject to investigation may be returned to his or her regular assignment. Such disclosure may be made only upon the concurrence of the judge subject to investigation. In such circumstances, the chief judge shall be bound by the same rule of confidentiality and privilege as the Board itself. (Adopted effective, April 10, 1998.)
RULE 6 - SUBPOENA POWER
(a) Pursuant to the subpoena power granted to the Board by the Constitution, subpoena and subpoena duces tecum may be issued in the name and upon the authority of the Board by any member of the Board. Every subpoena shall command each person to whom it is directed to attend and give testimony before the Board at a time and place therein specified. A subpoena duces tecum may also command the person to whom it is directed to produce the books, papers, documents or tangible things designated therein.
(b) The testimony or deposition of any witness, whether or not compelled by subpoena, may be taken, and any witness (and any books, records, papers or other documents) may be examined, on behalf of the Board, by or before:
(i) the Board;
(ii) a panel of the Board consisting of one or more members of the Board;
(iii) the Executive Director or any staff investigator designated for that purpose by the Chair or the Executive Director;
(iv) any person as a delegate of the Board designated for that purpose by the Chair.
(c) In the performance of any of its responsibilities as set forth in paragraph 6(b) above, any Board member, the Executive Director, staff investigator or person delegated by the Chair, may administer oaths or affirmations.
(d) The fees of witnesses for attendance and travel shall be the same as the fees to witnesses before the Circuit Courts of Illinois. A subpoena or subpoena duces tecum shall be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued out of a Circuit Court of Illinois.
RULE 7 - SERVICE OF NOTICES
Any notice permitted or required to be given by the Board may be served
by personal delivery, certified mail or registered mail.
RULE 8 -AMENDMENT OF RULES
These Rules may be altered, amended or repealed and new Rules may be
adopted at any meeting of the Board by an affirmative vote of not less
than five members present at any such meeting; provided however, that notice
of a proposed new Rule, as the case may be, shall have been given to all
members of the Board at least ten days prior to the meeting at which such
action is to be taken.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY
Any member of the Judicial
Inquiry Board shall disqualify himself or herself from participating
in any action of the Board where there exists a conflict of interest or
an appearance thereof; as a guide in this area, the members of the Board
will consider the standards of conduct applicable to Illinois judges.
RULES OF PROCEDURE OF
THE ILLINOIS COURTS COMMISSION
Established pursuant to Article VI, Section 15(e), (f) and (g), Illinois State Constitution (1970).
PREAMBLE
These Rules shall govern the proceedings of the Illinois Courts Commission.
RULE 1
Definitions when used in these Rules:
(a) "Constitution" means the 1970 Constitution of the State of Illinois.
(b) "Commission" means the Courts Commission created by the Constitution.
(c) "Board" means the Judicial Inquiry Board created by the Constitution.
(d) "Alternate" means a Supreme Court Judge selected by the Supreme Court; or a Circuit Court judge selected by the Supreme Court; or an Appellate Court judge selected by the Appellate Court; to act in place of a specific member of the Commission who is unable for any reason to act.
(e) "Judge" means a judge of the Supreme, Appellate, or Circuit Court or associate judge of the Circuit Court.
(f) "Chairman" means the Supreme Court Judge selected by the Supreme Court as a member of the Commission, or his alternate in the event of his inability to act.
(g) The terms "Service" and "Notice" shall include service or notice by personal delivery, certified mail, or registered mail.
(h) "Complaint" means a formal written charge filed by the Judicial Inquiry Board.
(i) "Secretary" means the person designated by the Commission to perform that function.
RULE 2
The Administrative Director of the Illinois Courts is designated as
Secretary in all proceedings before the Commission. He is empowered to
perform those duties ordinarily performed by a clerk of a court of record
in this state, and such other duties as the Commission may delegate to
him. He shall be the custodian of the records of the Commission, which
shall be preserved by him.
RULE 3
Formal proceedings respecting any judge shall be commenced by the filing
of a complaint in the Office of the Secretary in Springfield. The complaint
shall specify in plain and concise language the charges against the judge
and the allegations of fact upon which such charges are based and, in addition,
shall advise the judge of his right to file responsive pleadings to the
charges not less than twenty-one (21) days after service of notice upon
him. No other process or summons shall be necessary to institute said proceedings.
RULE 4
Service of notice of filing of a complaint shall be made by the Secretary
by certified mail or registered mail, with a copy of the complaint to be
sent to the judge at his chambers, or at his last known residence address
or, in the alternative, service may be made in a manner consistent with
rules for service of process in civil cases in Illinois.
RULE 5
It is the duty of the judge to file responsive pleadings and he shall
file them in the Office of the Secretary in Springfield not more than twenty-one
(21) days following the service of the notice and the copy of the complaint
upon him. For good cause shown, the Commission may extend the time for
filing such pleadings. They shall be in ordinary, plain and concise language
designed to fairly respond to the charges brought against him.
RULE 6
In the absence or inability to participate in a given proceeding by
any member of the Commission, his alternate shall act as a member of the
Commission.
RULE 7
No member of the Commission, or any alternate, may participate in any
proceedings before the Commission involving his own conduct.
RULE 8
Dilatory motions will be treated with disfavor. Any action which in
the opinion of the Commission, or any Commissioner acting in its behalf,
would interfere with the prompt disposition of the proceedings pending
before the Commission shall be discouraged, and may be avoided by proper
order of the Commission.
RULE 9
The Commission shall fix a date for hearing upon the complaint as expeditiously
as possible. Notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be
served upon the judge and any counsel designated by him not less than twenty-one
(21) days prior to the date upon which the hearing is set.
RULE 10
Hearings on the complaint shall be public before five members of the
Commission, except that the Commission may delegate to any Commissioner
such matters for preliminary determination as it may deem desirable or
necessary to expedite the proceedings.
RULE 11
The process and procedure before the Commission shall be as simple
and summary as reasonably may be. Except where inappropriate, the provisions
of the Code of Civil Procedure and the Rules of Evidence used in civil
cases in Illinois shall govern proceedings before the Commission, but the
allegations of the complaint must be proved by clear and convincing evidence.
(Amended. Effective June 30, 1983).
RULE 12
Notwithstanding the failure of any judge to file responsive pleadings
or to appear, the Commission may proceed with the hearing, provided however
that all evidence in support of the complaint shall be heard by the Commission
in public hearing.
RULE 13
Whenever it appears to the Commission to be necessary or advisable,
the Commission may appoint counsel to represent any person who may be materially
affected by the proceedings.
RULE 14
The Commission may permit, upon written request, any person who may
be materially affected by the hearing to be designated as an interested
party who shall be entitled to be represented by personal counsel to attend
all hearings, to cross examine witnesses, and to adduce evidence, if the
Commission deems same to be pertinent.
RULE 15
Any witness at any hearing of the Commission shall, upon leave of the
Commission, have the right to be represented by counsel, but such counsel
shall not participate in the hearing, or cross-examine witnesses, except
by permission of the Commission. The examination of all witnesses shall
be conducted by counsel for the parties, and may also be conducted by any
of the Commissioners.
RULE 16
It shall be the obligation of all judges and attorneys licensed to
practice law in this state, when called upon to assist in any hearing,
or to testify concerning any matter as to which he or they do not properly
claim privilege as an attorney, to so assist, to testify and aid the Commission
in their duties.
RULE 17
At the conclusion of the hearing, the Commission shall enter an appropriate
order, exercising the authority vested in it by sub-paragraph (e) of Section
15 of Article VI of the Constitution, or shall dismiss the complaint. The
concurrence of at least three members of the Commission shall be necessary
for a decision. The decision of the Commission shall be final.
RULE 18
The Commission may punish breaches of order and unprofessional conduct
on the part of counsel, or any other person, by censure, exclusion from
the hearing, if appropriate, or by punishment for contempt as in civil
proceedings. The Commission may designate a person, or persons, to act
as bailiff to be in attendance at all of its hearings.
RULE 19
The Commission shall have the right to take judicial notice of such
matters of which courts of record of this state may take judicial notice.
RULE 20
The Commission shall conduct the hearings at such place or places in
the state as it shall determine will best serve the public interest.
RULE 21
All orders of the Commission shall be in writing, and shall be preserved
by the Secretary in the permanent records of the Commission.
RULE 22
A verbatim transcript of the proceedings before the Commission shall
be kept, and the original thereof transcribed and filed in the Office of
the Secretary in Springfield as a part of the record of the proceedings.
The transcript shall be prepared by a reporter designated by the Commission.
RULE 23
The Secretary shall prepare and have available for issuance at the
request of any party, subpoenas returnable before the Illinois Courts Commission.
All witnesses shall be entitled to such witness fees and expenses as in
any civil proceedings in this state.
RULE 24
Prior to the hearings, all interested parties that appear of record
at the time of the commencement of the proceedings, and any interested
party who may subsequently become a part of such proceedings, shall be
entitled to receive copies of these Rules of Procedure, and shall be governed
thereby.
RULE 25
Expert medical testimony in accordance with Supreme Court Rule 215
may be required by the Commission.
RULE 26
The effective date of these Rules shall be the 17th day of July 1972.
Preamble
Our legal system is based on the principle that an independent, fair
and competent judiciary will interpret and apply the laws that govern us.
The role of the judiciary is central to American concepts of justice and
the rule of law. Intrinsic to all provisions of this code are precepts
that judges, individually and collectively, must respect and honor the
judicial office as a public trust and strive to enhance and maintain confidence
in our legal system. The judge is an arbiter of facts and law for the resolution
of disputes and a highly visible symbol of government under the rule of
law.
The Code of Judicial Conduct is intended to establish standards for ethical conduct of judges. It consists of broad statements called canons, specific rules set forth in lettered subsections under each canon, and Committee Commentary. The text of the canons and the rules is authoritative. The Committee Commentary, by explanation, and example, provides guidance with respect to the purpose and meaning of the canons and rules. The Commentary is not intended as a statement of additional rules.
The canons and rules are rules of reason. They should be applied consistent with constitutional requirements, statutes, other court rules and decisional law and in the context of all relevant circumstances. The Code is to be construed so as not to impinge on the essential independence of judges in making judicial decisions.
The Code is designed to provide guidance to judges and candidates for judicial office and to provide a structure for regulating conduct through disciplinary agencies. It is not designed or intended as a basis for civil liability or criminal prosecution. Furthermore, the purpose of the Code would be subverted if the Code were invoked by lawyers for mere tactical advantage in a proceeding.
The canons are not standards of discipline in themselves, but express the policy consideration underlying the rules contained within the canons. The text of the rules is intended to govern conduct of judges and to be binding upon them. It is not intended, however, that every transgression will result in disciplinary action. Whether disciplinary action is appropriate, and the degree of discipline to be imposed, should be determined through a reasonable and reasoned application of the text of the rules and should depend on such factors as the seriousness of the transgression, whether there is a pattern of improper activity and the effect of the improper activity on others or on the judicial system.
The Code of Judicial Conduct is not intended as an exhaustive guide for the conduct of judges. They should also be governed in their judicial and personal conduct by general ethical standards. The Code is intended, however, to state basic standards which should govern the conduct of all judges and to provide guidance to assist judges in establishing and maintaining high standards of judicial and personal conduct.
Adopted eff. Aug. 6, 1993.
Terminology
"Candidate." A candidate is a person seeking public election for or public retention in judicial office. A person becomes a candidate for judicial office as soon as he or she makes a public announcement of candidacy, declares or files as a candidate with the election authority, or authorizes solicitation or acceptance of contributions or support.
"Court personnel" does not include the lawyers in a proceeding before a judge.
"De minimis" denotes an insignificant interest that could not raise reasonable question as to a judge's impartiality.
"Economic interest" denotes ownership of a more than de minimis legal or equitable interest, or a relationship as officer, director, advisor or other active participant in the affairs of a party, except that:
(i) ownership of an interest in a mutual or common investment fund that
holds securities is not an economic interest in such securities unless
the judge participates in the management of the fund or a proceeding pending
or impending before the judge could substantially affect the value of the
interest;
(ii) service by a judge as an officer, director, advisor or other active
participant in an educational, religious, charitable, fraternal or civic
organization, or service by a judge's spouse, parent or child as an officer,
director, advisor or other active participant in any organization does
not create an economic interest in securities held by that organization;
(iii) a deposit in a financial institution, the proprietary interest of
a policyholder in a mutual insurance company, of a depositor in a mutual
savings association or of a member in a credit union, or a similar proprietary
interest, is not an economic interest in the organization unless a proceeding
pending or impending before the judge could substantially affect the value
of the interest;
(iv) ownership of government securities is not an economic interest in
the issuer unless a proceeding pending or impending before the judge could
substantially affect the value of the securities.
"Fiduciary" includes such relationships as executor, administrator, trustee, and guardian.
"He." Whenever this pronoun is used it includes the feminine as well as the masculine form.
"Judge" includes circuit and associate judges and judges of the appellate and supreme court.
"Knowingly," "knowledge," "known" or "knows" denotes actual knowledge of the fact in question. A person's knowledge may be inferred from circumstances.
"Law" denotes court rules as well as statutes, constitutional provisions and decisional law.
"Member of a candidate's/judge's family" denotes a spouse, child, grandchild, parent, grandparent or other relative or person with whom the candidate maintains a close familial relationship.
"Member of the judge's family residing in the judge's household" denotes any relative of a judge by blood or marriage, or a person treated by a judge as a member of the judge's family, who resides in the judge's household.
"Political organization" denotes a political party or other group, the principal purpose of which is to further the election or appointment of candidates to political office.
"Public election." This term includes primary and general elections; it includes partisan elections, non-partisan elections and retention elections.
"Require." The rules prescribing that a judge "require" certain conduct of others are, like all of the rules in this Code, rules of reason. The use of the term "require" in that context means a judge is to exercise reasonable direction and control over the conduct of those persons subject to the judge's direction and control.
"Third degree of relationship." The following persons are relatives within the third degree or relationship: great-grandparent, grandparent, parent, uncle, aunt, brother, sister, child, grandchild, great-grandchild, nephew or niece.
Adopted eff. Aug. 6, 1993.
RULE 61 - CANON 1
A Judge Should Uphold the Integrity
and Independence of the Judiciary
An independent and honorable judiciary is indispensable to justice in our society. A judge should participate in establishing, maintaining, and enforcing, and should personally observe, high standards of conduct so that the integrity and independence of the judiciary may be preserved. The provisions of this Code should be construed and applied to further that objective.
Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987. Amended eff. Aug. 6, 1993; Oct. 15, 1993.
RULE 62 - CANON 2
A Judge Should Avoid Impropriety and
the Appearance of Impropriety in All of the Judge's Activities
A. A judge should respect and comply with the law and should conduct himself or herself at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.
B. A judge should not allow the judge's family, social or other relationships to influence the judge's judicial conduct or judgment. A judge should not lend the prestige of judicial office to advance the private interests of others; nor should a judge convey or permit others to convey the impression that they are in a special position to influence the judge. A judge should not testify voluntarily as a character witness.
Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987. Amended eff. Oct. 15, 1993.
RULE 63 - CANON 3
A Judge Should Perform the Duties of Judicial Office
Impartially and Diligently
The judicial duties of a judge take precedence over all the judge's other activities. The judge's judicial duties include all the duties of the judge's office prescribed by law. In the performance of these duties, the following standards apply:
A. Adjudicative Responsibilities.
(1) A judge should be faithful to the law and maintain professional competence in it. A judge should be unswayed by partisan interests, public clamor, or fear of criticism.
(2) A judge should maintain order and decorum in proceedings before the judge.
(3) A judge should be patient, dignified, and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers, and others with whom the judge deals in an official capacity, and should require similar conduct of lawyers, and of staff, court officials, and others subject to the judge's direction and control.
(4) A judge shall accord to every person who has a legal interest in a proceeding, or that person's lawyer, the right to be heard according to law. A judge shall not initiate, permit, or consider ex parte communications, or consider other communications made to the judge outside the presence of the parties concerning a pending or impending proceeding except that:
(a) Where circumstances require, ex parte communications for scheduling, administrative purposes or emergencies that do not deal with substantive matters or issues on the merits are authorized; provided:
(i) the judge reasonably believes that no party will gain a procedural
or tactical advantage as a result of the ex parte communication, and
(ii) the judge makes provision promptly to notify all other parties of
the substance of the ex parte communication and allows an opportunity to
respond.
(b) A judge may consult with court personnel whose function is to aid the judge in carrying out the judge's adjudicative responsibilities or with other judges.
(c) A judge may, with the consent of the parties, confer separately with the parties and their lawyers in an effort to mediate or settle matters pending before the judge.
(d) A judge may initiate or consider any ex parte communications when expressly authorized by law to do so.
(5) A judge shall devote full time to his or her judicial duties; and should dispose promptly of the business of the court.
(6) A judge should abstain from public comment about a pending, or impending proceeding in any court, and should require similar abstention on the part of court personnel subject to the judge's direction and control. This paragraph does not prohibit judges from making public statements in the course of their official duties or from explaining for public information the procedures of the court.
(7) Proceedings in court should be conducted with fitting dignity, decorum, and without distraction. The taking of photographs in the courtroom during sessions of the court, or recesses between proceedings, and the broadcasting or televising of court proceedings is permitted only to the extent authorized by order of the Supreme Court.
(8) A judge shall perform judicial duties without bias or prejudice. A judge shall not, in the performance of judicial duties, by words or conduct manifest bias or prejudice, including but not limited to bias or prejudice based upon race, sex, religion, or national origin, and shall not permit staff, court officials and others subject to the judge's direction and control to do so.
(9) Proceedings before a judge shall be conducted without any manifestation, by words or conduct, of prejudice based upon race, sex, religion, or national origin, by parties, jurors, witnesses, counsel, or others. This section does not preclude legitimate advocacy when these or similar factors are issues in the proceedings.
B. Administrative Responsibilities.
(1) A judge should diligently discharge the judge's administrative responsibilities, maintain professional competence in judicial administration, and facilitate the performance of the administrative responsibilities of other judges and court officials.
(2) A judge should require staff, court officials and others subject to the judge's direction and control to observe the standards of fidelity and diligence that apply to the judge.
(3) A judge having knowledge of a violation of these canons on the part of a judge or a violation of Rule 8.4 of the Rules of Professional Conduct on the part of a lawyer shall take or initiate appropriate disciplinary measures.
(4) A judge should not make unnecessary appointments. A judge should exercise the power of appointment on the basis of merit, avoiding nepotism and favoritism. A judge should not approve compensation of appointees beyond the fair value of services rendered.
(5) A judge should refrain from casting a vote for the appointment or reappointment to the office of associate judge, of the judge's spouse or of any person known by the judge to be within the third degree of relationship to the judge or the judge's spouse (or the spouse of such a person.)
C. Disqualification.
(1) A judge shall disqualify himself or herself in a proceeding in which the judge's impartiality might reasonably be questioned, including but not limited to instances where:
(a) the judge has a personal bias or prejudice concerning a party or
a party's lawyer, or personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary facts concerning
the proceeding;
(b) the judge served as a lawyer in the matter in controversy, or a lawyer
with whom the judge previously practiced law served during such association
as a lawyer concerning the matter, or the judge has been a material witness
concerning it;
(c) the judge was, within the preceding three years, associated in the
private practice of law with any law firm or lawyer currently representing
any party in the controversy (provided that referral of cases when no monetary
interest was retained shall not be deemed an association within the meaning
of this subparagraph) or, for a period of seven years following the last
date on which the judge represented any party to the controversy while
the judge was an attorney engaged in the private practice of law;
(d) the judge knows that he or she, individually or as a fiduciary, or
the judge's spouse, parent or child wherever residing, or any other member
of the judge's family residing in the judge's household, has an economic
interest in the subject matter in controversy or in a party to the proceeding,
or has any other more than de minimis interest that could be substantially
affected by the proceeding; or
(e) the judge or the judge's spouse, or a person within the third degree
of relationship to either of them, or the spouse of such a person;
(i) is a party to the proceeding, or an officer, director, or trustee
of a party;
(ii) is acting as a lawyer in the proceeding;
(iii) is known by the judge to have a more than de minimis interest that
could be substantially affected by the proceeding; or
(iv) is to the judge's knowledge likely to be a material witness in the
proceeding.
(2) A judge shall keep informed about the judge's personal and fiduciary economic interests, and make a reasonable effort to keep informed about the personal economic interests of the judge's spouse and minor children residing in the judge's household.
D. Remittal of Disqualification.
A judge disqualified by the terms of Section 3C may disclose on the
record the basis of the judge's disqualification and may ask the parties
and their lawyers to consider, out of the presence of the judge, whether
to waive disqualification. If following disclosure of any basis for disqualification
other than personal bias or prejudice concerning a party, the parties and
lawyers, without participation by the judge, all agree that the judge should
not be disqualified, and the judge is then willing to participate, the
judge may participate in the proceeding. This agreement shall be incorporated
in the record of the proceeding.
Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987. Amended June 12, 1987, eff. Aug. 1, 1987; amended eff. Nov. 25, 1987; Aug. 6, 1993; Oct. 15, 1993.
RULE 64 - CANON 4
A Judge May Engage in Activities to Improve the Law,
the Legal System and the Administration of Justice
A judge, subject to the proper performance of his or her judicial duties, may engage in the following law-related activities, if in doing so the judge does not cast doubt on his or her capacity to decide impartially any issue that may come before him or her.
A. A judge may speak, write, lecture, teach, and participate in other activities concerning the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice. However, a judge may not regularly engage in instructing or teaching a course of instruction on a business day unless:
(1) the teaching or instructing will occur no earlier than 5:30 p.m.; and
(2) he or she has filed with the Director of the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts a certificate from the supervising judge which certifies that the contemplated teaching or instructing will not interfere with the proper performance of his or her judicial duties. Such certificate shall indicate the course of instruction to be taught or expected to be taught and the number of semester or quarter hours of the course, shall be effective until the conclusion of the course, and shall be in the following form:
CERTIFICATION FOR TEACHING ACTIVITIES
Pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 64, Judge _________________________ has
made known to me that he/she intends to teach or instruct a course in ____________________________
during the __________________ of 199__, and that the course is __________
[ ] semester [ ] quarter hours. As his/her supervising judge, I hereby
certify that the teaching or instructing as described to me will not interfere
with the proper performance of the judge's judicial duties.
This certification expires at the completion of the above mentioned course.
Supervising Judge
For purposes of this subsection A, "course of instruction" is a series of lessons or classes which are coordinated, arranged or presented to provide coverage of any subject; "business day" is any calendar day, except a Saturday or Sunday; and "supervising judge" is the chief circuit judge where the judge obtaining the certification is a circuit judge or an associate judge, the presiding judge where the judge obtaining the certification is an appellate court judge, and the chief justice of the Supreme Court where the judge obtaining the certification is a presiding judge or chief circuit judge or judge of the Supreme Court.
B. A judge may appear at a public hearing before an executive or legislative body or official on matters concerning the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice, and he or she may otherwise consult with an executive or legislative body or official, but only on matters concerning the administration of justice.
C. A judge may serve as a member, officer, or director of an organization or governmental agency devoted to the improvement of the law, the legal system, or the administration of justice. He or she may assist such an organization in raising funds and may participate in their management and investment, but should not personally participate in public fundraising activities. He or she may make recommendations to public and private fund-granting agencies on projects and programs concerning the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice.
Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987; Amended June 4, 1991, eff. Aug. 1, 1991.
RULE 65 - CANON 5
A Judge Should Regulate His or Her Extrajudicial
Activities to Minimize the Risk of Conflict
With the Judge's Judicial Duties
A. Avocational Activities.
A judge may write, lecture, teach, and speak on nonlegal subjects,
and engage in the arts, sports, and other social and recreational activities,
if such avocational activities do not detract from the dignity of the judge's
office or interfere with the performance of the judge's judicial duties.
B. Civic and Charitable Activities.
A judge may participate in civic and charitable activities that do not
reflect adversely upon the judge's impartiality or interfere with the performance
of the judge's judicial duties. A judge may serve as an officer, director,
trustee, or nonlegal advisor of an educational, religious, charitable,
fraternal, or civic organization not conducted for the economic or political
advantage of its members, subject to the following limitations:
(1) A judge should not serve if it is likely that the organization will
be engaged in proceedings that would ordinarily come before the judge or
will be regularly engaged in adversary proceedings in any court.
(2) A judge should not solicit or permit his or her name to be used in
any manner to solicit funds or other assistance for any such organization.
A judge should not allow his or her name to appear on the letterhead of
any such organization where the stationery is used to solicit funds and
should not permit the judge's staff, court officials or others subject
to the judge's direction or control to solicit on the judge's behalf for
any purpose, charitable or otherwise. A judge should not be a speaker or
the guest of honor at an organization's fund-raising events, but he or
she may attend such events.
C. Financial Activities.
(1) A judge should refrain from financial and business dealings that
tend to reflect adversely on the judge's impartiality, interfere with the
proper performance of the judge's judicial duties, exploit the judge's
judicial position, or involve the judge in frequent transactions with lawyers
or persons likely to come before the court on which the judge serves.
(2) Subject to the requirements of subsection (1), a judge may hold and
manage investments, including real estate, and engage in the activities
usually incident to the ownership of such investments, but a judge should
not assume an active role in the management or serve as an officer, director,
or employee of any business.
(3) A judge should manage his or her investments and other financial interests
to minimize the number of cases in which the judge is disqualified. As
soon as the judge can do so without serious financial detriment, the judge
should divest himself or herself of investments and other financial interests
that might require frequent disqualification.
(4) Neither a judge nor a member of the judge's family residing in the
judge's household should accept a gift, bequest, favor, or loan from anyone
except as follows:
(a) a judge may accept a gift incident to a public testimonial to the
judge; books supplied by publishers on a complimentary basis for official
use; or an invitation to the judge and the judge's spouse to attend a bar-related
function or activity devoted to the improvement of the law, the legal system,
or the administration of justice;
(b) a judge or a member of the judge's family residing in the judge's household
may accept ordinary social hospitality; a gift, bequest, favor, or loan
from a relative; a wedding or engagement gift; a loan from a lending institution
in its regular course of business on the same terms generally available
to persons who are not judges; or a scholarship or fellowship awarded on
the same terms applied to other applicants;
(c) a judge or a member of the judge's family residing in the judge's household
may accept any other gift, bequest, favor, or loan only if the donor is
not a party or other person whose interests have come or are likely to
come before the judge, including lawyers who practice or have practiced
before the judge.
(5) Information acquired by a judge in the judge's judicial capacity should not be used or disclosed by the judge in financial dealings or for any other purpose not related to the judge's judicial duties.
D. Fiduciary Activities.
A judge should not serve as the executor, administrator, trustee, guardian,
or other fiduciary, except for the estate, trust, or person of a member
of the judge's family, and then only if such service will not interfere
with the proper performance of the judge's judicial duties. As a family
fiduciary a judge is subject to the following restrictions.
(1) The judge should not serve if it is likely that as a fiduciary the
judge will be engaged in proceedings that would ordinarily come before
the judge, or if the estate, trust, or ward becomes involved in adversary
proceedings in the court on which the judge serves or one under its appellate
jurisdiction.
(2) While acting as a fiduciary a judge is subject to the same restrictions
on financial activities that apply to the judge in his or her personal
capacity.
E. Arbitration.
A judge should not act as an arbitrator or mediator.
F. Practice of Law.
A judge should not practice law.
G. Extrajudicial Appointments.
A judge should not accept appointment to a governmental committee, commission
or other position that is concerned with issues of fact or policy on matters
other than the improvement of the law, the legal system, or the administration
of justice. A judge, however, may represent his or her country, State,
or locality on ceremonial occasions or in connection with historical, educational
and cultural activities. Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987. Amended
eff. Oct. 15, 1993.
RULE 66 - CANON 6
Nonjudicial Compensation and Annual
Statement of Economic Interests
A judge may not receive compensation for the law-related and extrajudicial activities permitted by this Code; however, he or she may receive an honorarium and reimbursement of expenses if the source of such payments does not give the appearance of influencing the judge in his or her judicial duties or otherwise give the appearance of impropriety. For purposes of this canon, "compensation" is a sum of money or other thing of value paid by a person or entity to a judge for services provided or performed. Compensation shall not be construed to include investment or interest income or other income that is unrelated to the work or services provided or performed by the judge; nor shall compensation be construed to include a sum of money or other thing of value paid for writings.
A. Honorarium.
An honorarium should not exceed a reasonable amount nor should it exceed
what a person who is not a judge would receive for the same activity. The
total honoraria received by a judge within a six-month period shall not
exceed $5,000.
B. Expense Reimbursement.
Expense reimbursement shall be limited to the actual cost of travel, food
and lodging reasonably incurred by the judge and, where appropriate to
the occasion, by the judge's spouse.
C. Annual Declarations of Economic Interests.
A judge shall file a statement of economic interests as required by Rule
68, as amended effective August 1, 1986, and thereafter.
Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1, 1987. Amended June 4, 1991, eff. Aug. 1, 1991; April 1, 1992, eff. Aug. 1, 1992: amended eff. Oct. 15, 1993; Dec. 13, 1996.
RULE 67 - CANON 7
A Judge or Judicial Candidate Shall Refrain
from Inappropriate Political Activity
A. All Judges and Candidates.
(1) Except as authorized in subsections B (1)(b) and B (3), a judge or a candidate for election to judicial office shall not:
(a) act as a leader or hold an office in a political organization;
(b) publicly endorse or publicly oppose another candidate for public office;
(c) make speeches on behalf of a political organization;
(d) solicit funds for, or pay an assessment to a political organization
or candidate.
(2) A judge shall resign from judicial office upon becoming a candidate for a nonjudicial office either in a primary or in a general election.
(3) A candidate for a judicial office:
(a) shall maintain the dignity appropriate to judicial office and act
in a manner consistent with the integrity and independence of the judiciary,
and shall encourage members of the candidate's family to adhere to the
same standards of political conduct in support of the candidate as apply
to the candidate;
(b) shall prohibit employees and officials who serve at the pleasure of
the candidate, and shall discourage other employees and officials subject
to the candidate's direction and control from doing on the candidate's
behalf what the candidate is prohibited from doing under the provisions
of this Canon;
(c) except to the extent permitted by subsection B (2), shall not authorize
or knowingly permit any other person to do for the candidate what the candidate
is prohibited from doing under the provisions of this Canon;
(d) shall not:
(i) make statements that commit or appear to commit the candidate with
respect to cases, controversies or issues within cases that are likely
to come before the court; or
(ii) knowingly misrepresent the identity, qualifications, present position
or other fact concerning the candidate or an opponent; and
(e) may respond to personal attacks or attacks on the candidate's record as long as the response does not violate subsection A (3)(d).
B. Authorized Activities for Judges and Candidates.
(1) A judge or candidate may, except as prohibited by law:
(a) at any time
(i) purchase tickets for and attend political gatherings;
(ii) identify himself or herself as a member of a political party; and
(iii) contribute to a political organization.
(b) when a candidate for public election
(i) speak to gatherings on his or her own behalf;
(ii) appear in newspaper, television and other media advertisements supporting
his or her candidacy;
(iii) distribute pamphlets and other promotional literature supporting
his or her candidacy; and
(iv) publicly endorse or publicly oppose other candidates in a public election
in which the judge or judicial candidate is running.
(2) A candidate shall not personally solicit or accept campaign contributions. A candidate may establish committees of responsible persons to conduct campaigns for the candidate through media advertisements, brochures, mailings, candidate forums and other means not prohibited by law. Such committees may solicit and accept reasonable campaign contributions, manage the expenditure of funds for the candidate's campaign and obtain public statements of support for his or her candidacy. Such committees are not prohibited from soliciting and accepting reasonable campaign contributions and public support from lawyers. A candidate's committees may solicit contributions and public support for the candidate's campaign no earlier than one year before an election and no later than 90 days after the last election in which the candidate participates during the election year. A candidate shall not use or permit the use of campaign contributions for the private benefit of the candidate or others.
(3) Except as prohibited by law, a candidate for judicial office in a public election may permit the candidate's name: (a) to be listed on election materials along with the names of other candidates for elective public office, and (b) to appear in promotions of the ticket.
C. Incumbent Judges.
A judge shall not engage in any political activity except (i) as authorized
under any other provision of this Code, (ii) on behalf of measures to improve
the law, the legal system or the administration of justice, or (iii) as
expressly authorized by law.
D. Applicability.
Canon 7 generally applies to all incumbent judges and judicial candidates.
A successful candidate, whether or not an incumbent, is subject to judicial
discipline for his or her campaign conduct; an unsuccessful candidate who
is a lawyer is subject to lawyer discipline for his or her campaign conduct.
A lawyer who is a candidate for judicial office is subject to Rule 8.2(b)
of the Rules of Professional Conduct. Adopted Dec. 2, 1986, eff. Jan. 1,
1987. Amended April 20, 1987, eff. Aug. 1, 1987; amended eff. Aug. 6, 1993;
March 24, 1994.
RULE 68 - Declaration of Economic Interests
A judge shall file annually with the Clerk of the Illinois Supreme
Court (the Clerk) a verified written statement of economic interests and
relationships of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family
(the statement).
As statements are filed in the Clerk's office, the Clerk shall cause the fact of that filing to be indicated on alphabetical listing of judges who are required to file such statements. Blank statement forms shall be furnished to the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (the Director).
Any person who files or has filed a statement under this rule shall receive from the Clerk a receipt indicating that the person has filed such a statement and the date of such filing.
All statements filed under this rule shall be available for examination by the public during business hours in the Clerk's office in Springfield or in the satellite office of the Clerk in Chicago. Original copies will be maintained only in Springfield, but requests for examination submitted in Chicago will be satisfied promptly. Each person requesting examination of a statement or portion thereof must first fill out a form prepared by the Director specifying the statement requested, identifying the examiner by name, occupation, address and telephone number, and listing the date of the request and the reason for such request. The Director shall supply such forms to the Clerk and replenish such forms upon request. Copies of statements or portions of statements will be supplied to persons ordering them upon payment of such reasonable fee per page as is required by the Clerk. Payment may be by check or money order in the exact amount due.
The Clerk shall promptly notify each judge required to file a statement under this rule of each instance of an examination of the statement by sending the judge a copy of the identification form filled out by the person examining the statement.
The contents of the statement required by this rule shall be as specified by administrative order of this court. Adopted eff. March 15, 1970; Amended April 1, 1986, eff. Aug. 1, 1986.
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF
THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
Order entered April 1, 1986:
The verified statements of economic interests and relationships referred to in our Rule 68, as amended effective August 1, 1986, shall be filed by all judges on or before April 30, 1987, and on or before April 30, annually thereafter. Such statements shall also be filed by every person who becomes a judge, within 45 days after assuming office. However, judges who assume office on or after December 1 and who file the statement before the following April 30 shall not be required to file the statement due on April 30. The form of such statements shall be as provided by the Administrative Director of the Illinois Courts, and they shall include all information required by Rule 68 and this order, including:
1. Current economic interests of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) whether in the form of stock, bond, dividend, interest, trust. realty, rent, certificate of deposit, deposit in any financial institution, pension plan, Keogh plan, Individual Retirement Account, equity or creditor interest in any corporation, proprietorship, partnership, instrument of indebtedness or otherwise. Every source of noninvestment income in the form of a fee, commission, compensation, compensation for personal service, royalty, pension, honorarium or otherwise must also be listed. No reimbursement of expenses by any unit of government and no interest to deferred compensation under a plan administered by the State of Illinois need be listed. No amounts or account numbers need be listed in response to this paragraph 1. Current economic interests shall be as of a date within 30 days proceeding the date of filing the statement.
2. Former economic interests of the type required to be disclosed in response to numbered paragraph 1 which were held by the judge or any member of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) during the year preceding the date of verification. Current economic interests listed in response to numbered paragraph 1 need not be listed. No amounts or account numbers need be listed in response to this paragraph 2.
3. The names of all creditors to whom amounts in excess of $500 are owed by the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) or were owed during the year proceeding the date of verification. For each such obligation there is to be listed the category for the amount owed as of the date of verification and the maximum category for the amount of each such obligation during the year preceding the date of verification of the statement. The categories for reporting the amount of each such obligation are as follows:
(a) not more than $5,000;
(b) greater than $5,000 but not more than $15,000;
(c) greater than $15,000 but not more than $50,000;
(d) greater than $50,000 but not more than $100,000;
(e) greater than $100,000 but not more than $250,000; and
(f) greater than $250,000.
Excluded from this requirement are obligations consisting of revolving charge accounts, with an outstanding liability equal to or less than $5,000.
4. The name of any individual personally known by the judge to be licensed to practice law in Illinois who is a co-owner with the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) of any of the economic interests disclosed in paragraphs 1 and 2, and the name of any person who has acted as a surety or guarantor of any of the obligations required to be disclosed in paragraph 3.
5. A list of every office, directorship and salaried employment of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge). Exclude unsalaried positions in religious, social or fraternal organizations, and honorary positions.
6. Pending cases in which the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) are parties in interest and, to the extent personally known to the judge, pending cases in which a party is an economic entity in which the judge or any member of the judge's immediate family has an interest. Cases in which a judge has been sued in the judge's official capacity shall not be included.
7. Any fiduciary position, including executorships and trusteeships of the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse or minor children residing with the judge).
8. The name of the donor and a brief description of any gifts received by the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge). Gifts of transportation, food, lodging or entertainment having a value in excess of $250 must be reported. All other gifts having a value in excess of $100 must be reported. Gifts between the judge and the judge's spouse, children or parents shall not be reported.
9. Any other economic interest or relationship of the judge or of members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) which could create a conflict of interest for the judge in the judge's judicial capacity, other than those listed in numbered paragraphs 1 to 8 hereof.
Prior to the first Monday in March of each year the Director shall inform each judge by letter of the requirements of this amended rule. The Director shall similarly inform by letter each person who becomes a judge of the requirements of the rule within 10 days of such person assuming office. The Director shall include with such letter instructions concerning the required statements, two sets of the statement forms and one mailing envelope preaddressed to the Clerk. The letter, instructions, and statements shall be in substantially the form set forth below:
(Letterhead of Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts)
________________________, 19
TO: MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
RE: Compliance with Supreme Court Rule 68
As a member of the judiciary, you are required to file an annual statement of economic interests pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 68. Enclosed are the necessary forms and envelopes to be used in complying with Rule 68 on or before ___________________, 19__.
In this packet are:
(A) One copy of "Instructions Concerning Required Statements for Members of the Judiciary of the State of Illinois."
(B) Two copies of the form entitled "Statement Required of Members of the Judiciary of the State of Illinois." [One copy to be filed with the Clerk of the Supreme Court, one copy to be retained for your records.]
(C) One 9 x 12 mailing envelope preaddressed to the Clerk of the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court requests you follow these instructions carefully and asks that you be certain to return the original of your statement in the mailing envelope furnished herewith preaddressed to the Clerk of the Supreme Court.
FORMS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC ACT 77-1806, "ILLINOIS GOVERNMENTAL ETHICS ACT," WILL BE MAILED TO YOU UNDER SEPARATE COVER AND MUST BE FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
Very truly yours,
Director
INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING REQUIRED STATEMENTS FOR MEMBERS OF
THE JUDICIARY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
On or before April 30, 1987, and on or before April 30, annually thereafter, every judge of the Supreme Court, the Appellate Court and every judge and associate judge of the Circuit Court shall file a verified written statement (the statement) of economic interests and relationships which may create conflicts of interest, with the Clerk of the Illinois Supreme Court. Such statements shall be filed by every person who becomes a judge or associate judge within 45 days after assuming office and on or before each April 30 thereafter. However, judges who assume office on or after December 1 and who file the statement before the following April 30 shall not be required to file the statement due on April 30.
The statements required shall include the following information which, except where noted, shall include information as of the date of verification of the statement.
1. Current economic interests of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) whether in the form of stock, bond, dividend, interest, trust, realty, rent, certificate of deposit, deposit in any financial institution, pension plan, Keogh plan, Individual Retirement Account, equity or creditor interest in any corporation, proprietorship, partnership, instrument of indebtedness or otherwise. Every source of noninvestment income in the form of a fee, commission, compensation, compensation for personal service, royalty, pension, honorarium or otherwise must also be listed. No reimbursement of expenses by any unit of government and no interest in deferred compensation under a plan administered by the State of Illinois need be listed. No amounts need be listed in response to this paragraph. Current economic interests shall be as of a date within 30 days preceding the date of filing the statement.
2. Former economic interests of the type required to be disclosed in response to numbered paragraph 1 which were held by the judge or any member of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) during the year preceding the date of verification. Current economic interests listed in response to numbered paragraph 1 need not be listed. No amounts need be listed in response to this paragraph 2.
3. The names of all creditors to whom amounts in excess of $500 are owed by the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) or were owed during the year preceding the date of verification. For each such obligation there is to be listed the category for the amount owed as of the date of verification and the maximum category for the amount of each such obligation during the year preceding the date of verification of the statement. The categories for reporting the amount of each such obligation are as follows:
(a) not more than $5,000;
(b) greater than $5,000 but not more than $15,000;
(c) greater than $15,000 but not more than $50,000;
(d) greater than $50,000 but not more than $100,000;
(e) greater than $100,000 but not more than $250,000; and
(f) greater than $250,000.
Excluded from this requirement are obligations consisting of revolving charge accounts, with an outstanding liability equal to or less than $5,000.
4. The name of any individual personally known by the judge to be licensed to practice law in Illinois who is a co-owner with the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) of any of the economic interests disclosed in paragraphs 1 and 2, and the name of any person who has acted as a surety or guarantor of any of the obligations required to be disclosed in paragraph 3.
5. A list of every office, directorship and salaried employment of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge). Exclude unsalaried positions in religious, social or fraternal organizations, and honorary positions.
6. Pending cases in which the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) are parties in interest, and, to the extent personally known to the judge, pending cases in which a party is an economic entity in which the judge or any member of the judge's immediate family has an interest. Cases in which a judge has been sued in the judge's official capacity shall not be included.
7. Any fiduciary position, including executorships and trusteeships of the judge and members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and any minor child residing with the judge).
8. The name of the donor and a brief description of any gifts received by the judge or members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge). Gifts of transportation, food, lodging or entertainment having a value in excess of $250 must be reported. All other gifts having a value in excess of $100 must be reported. Gifts between the judge and the judge's spouse, children or parents shall not be reported.
9. Any other economic interest or relationship of the judge or of members of the judge's immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with the judge) which could create a conflict of interest for the judge in the judge's judicial capacity other than those listed in numbered paragraphs 1 to 8 hereof.
The Statements required herein shall be in substantially the form titled
"STATEMENT REQUIRED OF MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS,"
which is attached hereto as Exhibit A.
(SAMPLE)
EXHIBIT A
STATEMENT REQUIRED OF MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
1. My current economic interests and the current economic interests of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) are as follows:
(Here list current economic interests specified in numbered paragraph 1 of the instructions setting forth the date (within 30 days of the date of filing) as of which said interests are being reported.)
2. My former economic interests and the former economic interests of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) held during the year preceding the date of verification.
(Here list former economic interests specified in numbered paragraph 2 of the instructions.)
3. Creditors to whom amounts in excess of $500 are owed as of the date of verification or were owed during the year preceding the date of verification by me or members of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me), exclusive of revolving charge accounts with an outstanding liability equal to or less than $5,000, the amount of each such obligation outstanding as of the date of verification and the maximum amount of each such obligation during such preceding year within the categories set forth in paragraph numbered 3 of the instructions.
(Here list in accordance with numbered paragraph 3 of the instructions.)
4. The name of any individual personally known by me to be licensed to practice law in Illinois who is a co-owner with me or members of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) of any of the economic interests disclosed in paragraphs 1 and 2, and the name of any person who has acted as a surety or guarantor of any of the obligations required to be disclosed in paragraph 3.
(Here list in accordance with numbered paragraph 4 of the instructions.)
5. My offices, directorships, and salaried employments and the offices, directorships and salaried employments of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) are as follows:
(Here list in accordance with numbered paragraph 5 of the instructions.)
6. Pending cases in which I or members of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) have an interest are as follows:
(Here list pending cases in which you or members of your immediate family are parties in interest, or an economic entity to which you or they have an interest is a party, in accordance with numbered paragraph 6 of the instructions.)
7. My fiduciary positions, including executorships and directorships, and the fiduciary positions of the members of my immediate family (my spouse and minor children residing with me) are as follows:
(Here list fiduciary positions in accordance with numbered paragraph 7 of the instructions.)
8. The name of the donor of gifts received by me or members of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me) during the year preceding the date of verification, are as follows:
(Here list gifts in accordance with numbered paragraph 8 of the instructions.)
9. My economic interests and relationships and those of my immediate family (spouse and minor children residing with me), other than those listed in numbered paragraphs 1 to 8 hereof, which could create conflicts of interest for me in my judicial capacity are as follows:
(Here insert any economic interest or relationship which might or could create a substantial conflict of interest.)
VERIFICATION
Pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 68, I declare that this statement of economic
interest, including any accompanying schedules and statements, as it relates
to me and members of my immediate family, has been examined by me and to
the best of my knowledge and belief is true, correct and complete.
_____________________
Judge's Signature
_____________________
Date
Order adopted April 1, 1986. Order amended April 20 1987, effective August 1, 1987; order amended December 30, 1993, effective January 1, 1994; order amended December 1, 1995.
RULE 69-70 - Reserved.
RULE 71 - Violation of Rules.
A judge who violates Rules 61 through 68 may be subject to discipline
by the Illinois Courts Commission.
Adopted Jan. 30, 1970, eff. March 15, 1970. Amended eff. October 1, 1971; July 15, 1976; amended December 2, 1986, eff. January 1, 1987.
RULES 72 to 75 - Reserved.
RULE 76 - Military Service of Judges.
A judge or associate judge may serve on active duty in the State militia
or the armed forces of the United States for a period not to exceed 30
days in each year without loss of pay or vacation privileges and for a
period not to exceed six months in any 24-month period without being disqualified
from serving as a judge or associate judge.
Adopted June 25, 1971, eff. July 1, 1971.
RULES 77 to 85 - Reserved.
Appendix A
BIOGRAPHIES
PRESENT BOARD MEMBERS
Sandra R. Otaka, Esq., Chair and legal member of the Board, was born in California. She received her B.A. from University of California in 1983 and her Juris Doctorate from UCLA School of Law in 1987. Sandra was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1987. She is the Section Chief of the Office of Regional Counsel, United States Environmental Protection Agency and a former associate with the Law Firm of Sidley & Austin - 1987-1990. She served as a member of the Special Commission for the Administration of Justice ("Solovy Commission") from 1992-1994 and Chair of the Asian American Advisory Committee to Senator Paul Simon from 1991-1994. Currently, Sandra is Vice President of the Japanese American Service Committee, Vice- Chair of the Cook County Human Rights Commission and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Asian American Bar Association. She also serves as a member of the Committee on Character and Fitness for the Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar. She resides in Chicago with her son Jeffrey. Sandra was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in April 1992.
Milton H. Gray, Esq., Vice Chair and a legal member of the Board, received his B.A. from Northwestern University in 1931 and his Juris Doctorate from Northwestern University School of Law in 1934. He is the Senior Partner in the Law Firm of Altheimer & Gray, a member of the Order of Coif and since 1968 on the National Executive Board and Advisory Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Throughout his career Milton has served in the following capacities: President, the Chicago Bar Association from1971-1972; Commissioner, Supreme Court of Illinois from 1957-1973; Special Master, U.S. District Court, City Savings Association from 1973-1977 and Milwaukee R.R. Reorganization from 1979-1985; Legal Advisory Committee, Board of Directors, New York Stock Exchange from 1984-1988; Lecturer and author on Corporate finances and Corporate officer and director. Milton was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in April 1992.
Judge Lester D. Foreman is a judicial member of the Board. In 1990, he was elected Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County and currently presides in the Chancery Division; he previously served for 3 years as an Associate Judge. He is the immediate past Chairman of the Illinois Judicial Conference Committee on Discovery, the committee responsible for the development of several Supreme Court Rules effecting discovery revision and improvement. He served as Chairman of the Illinois Supreme Court Special Joint Committee on Discovery Procedure, comprised of members of the Supreme Court's Rules Committee and Judicial Conference Committee. He is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association's Civil Practice Section and a former member of the Tort Law Section; for several years he co-authorized that section's publication "Tort Trends". In addition, Judge Foreman is a member of the Executive Committee of the Chicago Bar Association's Civil Practice Committee and serves on the Association's Circuit Court and Judicial Committees. He was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in May 1997.
Sharon Gist Gilliam, a public member of the Board, was born in Chicago, Illinois. She received her B.A. from Mundelein College in 1965. She is currently a Partner in Unison Consulting Group, Inc. She is the former City of Chicago Budget Director, 1983 - 1987 and Chief Operating Officer, 1988 - 1989. She is a Board member of the Illinois State Board of Education, Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), Northwestern Memorial Corporation and Chicago Historical Society. Sharon resides in Chicago, Illinois with her husband Russell. She was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in April 1992.
Rodney R. Gholson, a public member of the Board, was born in Illinois on September 9, 1966. He received his Associate of Applied Science in Law Enforcement from Southern Illinois University in 1987 and his B.A. in Political Science in 1989. Rodney began his career in the insurance business after graduating from college. In 1996, he became co-owner of Heartland Financial Services located in Vienna, Illinois. He was appointed Johnson County Treasurer and Collector from 1992-1994. He is currently Chairman of the American Cancer Society for Johnson County. Rodney resides in Vienna, Illinois. He was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in June 1998.
Gloria C. Morningstar, a public member of the Board, spent her formative years in Iowa. She has been a resident of the Chicagoland area since the 1960's. Gloria received her B.S. from Morningside College and is a Graduate of the University of South Dakota. She is President of Capitol Events, Inc., Chair of the Private Industry Council of Cook County SDA 7, Chair of the Multicultural Diversity Board of South Suburban College, Treasurer of the City of Harvey, Member of Governor's State University College of Business and Public Administration Advisory Board, Director of the Abby Foundation, President of the Creative Woman Foundation, Director of the Board of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, Director of the Board of the Chicago Southland Chamber, Charter member of the National Museum of the American Indian and a member of the Archaeological Society of America. Gloria was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in June 1996.
Judge John W. Rapp, Jr., a judicial member of the Board, was born in Oak Park, Illinois on December 12, 1940. He received his A.B. from Loyola University of Chicago in 1962 and his Juris Doctorate in 1965. From 1965 - 1970 Judge Rapp was engaged in the general practice of law with the firm of Eaton, Leemon & Rapp located in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. He currently holds the positions of Resident Circuit Judge of Carroll County - elected in 1970, Chief Judge of the 15th Judicial Circuit- elected in 1982 and Chairman of Conference of Chief Judges - elected in 1987. He is also a member of the Education Committee of the Illinois Judicial Conference. Judge Rapp and his wife Mary have 3 sons and 1 grandchild. He was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in March 1997.
William ("Tony") A. Sunderman, Esq., a legal member of the Board, was born in Charleston, Illinois on January 24, 1946. He received his B.S. in Business form Eastern Illinois University in1968 and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Illinois in 1972. Tony is a Graduate of the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. He is currently engaged in the general practice of law with the Brainard Law Offices located in Charleston, Illinois as a senior partner; his practice is limited to litigation matters. He resides in Charleston, Illinois with his wife, Judith and their two children. Tony was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in May 1998.
Vincent J. Trosino, a public member of the Board, was born in Upland, Pennsylvania. He received his B.S. from Villanova University and his M.S. from Illinois State University. Vincent joined State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co, in 1962 and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Board, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the State Farm Automobile Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL. He is a member of the boards of directors and executive committees of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance, State Farm Fire and Casualty, State Farm General Insurance, State Farm Lloyds, Inc. and State Farm Life and Accident Assurance companies. Vincent was past chairman of the Illinois State University Foundation Board of Directors and serves on the Board of the American Judicature Society's Center for Judicial Conduct Organizations. In 1996 he was elected to the Brookings Institution Board of Trustees and as Vice Chairman of the American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters. In addition, Vincent is chairman of the advisory board of the Children's Foundation of McLean County, IL. He and his wife, Patricia, have three children and reside in Bloomington, IL. He was appointed to the Judicial Inquiry Board in April 1992.
Kathy D. Twine was appointed by the Judicial Inquiry Board as its Executive Director and General Counsel in January 1998. She received her B.B.A. in Accounting from Loyola University of Chicago in 1985 and her Juris Doctorate from Loyola University of Chicago School of Law in 1991. She was admitted to practice law in the State of Illinois in May 1991, United States District Court, C.D., IL. and United States District Court, N.D., IL. in 1992. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Deputy Director of Elections for the Cook County Clerk's Office from 1993 - 1998. Kathy also worked for the Office of the Illinois Attorney General, General Law Section, as an Assistant Attorney General in 1992-1993 and as an associate attorney in a private law office. She is a member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, a Board member of the Proviso West Chapter - NAACP and a member of the Summit Community Task Force.
Name Term of Office Replaced by
Judge Walter P. Dahl 07/15/71-07/15/79 Judge Philip A. Fleischman
Judge John T. Reardon 07/15/71-12/06/76 Judge Lloyd A. VanDeusen
Richard T. Dunn, Esq.* 09/21/71-09/21/75 C. George Niebank, Esq.
Frank Greenberg, Esq. 09/21/71-09/23/79 Prof. Jon R. Waltz, Esq.
Dr. Charles Hurst 09/21/71-09/21/75 Ernest T. Collins
Gordon F. Moore, M.D. 09/21/71-09/21/75 Willard C. Scrivner M.D.
Harold B. Steele 09/21/71-09/10/77 Carl L. Sadler
Wayne W. Whalen, Esq. 09/21/71-09/21/75 Prof. Rubin G. Cohn, Esq.
Anne Willer 09/21/71-01/04/75 Renee Hansen
Prof. Rubin G. Cohn, Esq. 09/23/75-09/23/79 Robert P. Cummins, Esq.
Ernest T. Collins 09/23/75-09/23/79 Ronald Williams
C. George Niebank, Jr., Esq.* 09/23/75-09/23/79 Darrell McGowen, Esq.
Willard C. Scrivner, M.D. 09/23/75-09/23/79 Donald M. Carlson
Judge Lloyd A. VanDeusen 01/08/77-07/22/80 Judge Philip B. Benefiel
Carl L. Sadler 02/02/78-06/15/79 William J. Kuhfuss
Judge Philip A. Fleischman 07/15/79-11/26/80 Judge Robert C. Buckley
Donald M. Carlson 12/27/79-01/22/80 Helen S. Harshbarger
Judge Robert C. Buckley 11/26/80-11/24/82 Judge Edward H. Marsalek
Renee Hansen 03/04/75-04/13/83 Mary Sue Hub
Helen S. Harshbarger 04/08/81-04/08/85 Patrick K. Mudron
Ronald Williams 11/09/79-12/11/85 Frances K. Zemans
Robert P. Cummins, Esq.* 11/09/79-12/14/87 William A. O'Connor, Esq.
William J. Kuhfuss 11/09/79-12/14/87 Joel D. Gingiss
Darrell McGowen, Esq. 11/09/79-12/14/87 Tyrone C. Fahner, Esq.
Prof. Jon R. Waltz, Esq. 12/29/79-12/27/87 Joyce E. Moran, Esq.
Judge Philip B. Benefiel 07/22/80-07/22/88 Judge Harold L. Jensen
Judge Edward H. Marsalek 11/26/82-11/24/90 Judge Edward G. Finnegan
Joyce E. Moran, Esq. 12/15/87-12/15/91 Milton H. Gray, Esq.
Mary Sue Hub 02/23/84-02/23/92 Nancy Sage
Frances K. Zemans 01/28/88-01/28/92 Vincent J. Trosino
William A. O'Connor, Esq. 01/22/88-01/22/92 William F. Conlon, Esq.
Joel D. Gingiss 01/22/88-01/22/92 Sharon Gist Gilliam
Tyrone C. Fahner, Esq.* 01/13/88-01/13/92 Sandra R. Otaka, Esq.*
Patrick F. Mudron 07/05/85-07/08/93 Fred Randazzo
Judge Harold Jensen 07/22/88-07/22/96 Judge Fred S. Carr
Judge Edward G. Finnegan 11/00/90-03/14/97 Judge Lester D. Foreman
Judge Fred S. Carr 07/22/96-02/06/97 Judge John W. Rapp, Jr.
William F. Conlon* 04/06/92-06/17/97 William A. Sunderman, Esq.
Fred V. Randazzo 03/14/94-03/15/98 Rodney R. Gholson
*Board Chairman
Appendix C
COMPLAINT ALLEGATIONS
FISCAL YEARS 1996, 1997 AND 1998
STATE FISCAL YEAR: JULY 1ST through JUNE 30TH
TYPE | FY 1996 | FY 1997 | FY 1998 |
Administrative Misconduct | 0 | 9 | 8 |
Alcohol/Drugs | 1 | 4 | 2 |
Bias, Prejudice, Partiality | 56 | 55 | 23 |
Bribe | 1 | 3 | 1 |
Delay in scheduling or deciding a matter | 12 | 12 | 10 |
Demeanor/Injudicious temperament (i.e. impatient, rude, conduct that is intimidating and inappropriate language/commentary | 42 | 53 | 39 |
Ex parte-Communication (one-sided) | 12 | 16 | 10 |
Failure to recuse/disqualify/conflict of interest | 6 | 14 | 5 |
Illegal Activity | 3 | 2 | 2 |
Judicial decision/discretion (i.e. dissatisfaction with court procedures or rulings, use or nonuse of evidence, criminal sentences, custody, general outcome of the case) | 187 | 196 | 130 |
Mental incapacity | 1 | 1 | 0 |
Physical incapacity | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Inappropriate political activity (i.e. publicly endorse or oppose a candidate for public office, personal solicitation of funds, make speeches on behalf of a political organization, misrepresentation of qualifications) | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Sex/Racel/National Origin Discrimination | 7 | 8 | 6 |
Sexual Misconduct | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Inappropriate conduct off the bench (i.e. prohibited charitable, business or personal conduct) | 5 | 14 | 4 |
Misconduct while an attorney | 1 | 2 | 2 |
Violation of Constitutional rights | 8 | 3 | 1 |
Misconduct by a candidate | 1 | 2 | 0 |
Prejudgment of a case | 3 | 1 | 0 |
Other | 12 | 8 | 12 |
Estimated Pending Requests for Investigation (Have not been before the Board for initial review as of 6/30/98) | 0 | 0 | 182 |
TOTAL | 358 | 403 | 441 |
Appendix D
SUMMARIES OF
COMPLAINTS FILED WITH THE ILLINOIS COURTS COMMISSION
1. 72 CC-1 Filed 12/15/72
Paul R. Durr, Circuit Judge, 8th Circuit, Calhoun County
The Complaint alleged he owned and operated an abstract company; practiced
law, filed false statement of economic interest; did not advise litigants
or attorneys that opposing counsel was a business partner.
Order of 8/1/73: One-year suspension without pay. Respondent then resigned from office.
2. 73 CC-1 Filed 3/9/73
John J. McDonnell, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he: 1) Threatened man and wife with handgun;
2) Struck another man and pushed his wife; 3) Interfered with Board investigation.
Order of 6/29/73: 1) Suspended for four months without pay; 2) Dismissed; 3) Dismissed.
3. 73 CC-2 Filed 3/16/73
Francis T. McCurrie, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged mental and physical disability.
Order of 4/10/73: Complaint dismissed upon resignation of judicial office.
4. 73 CC-3 Filed 7/20/73
Franklin I. Kral, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he: 1) Accepted favors from attorney who appeared
before him; 2) Made cash transaction in chambers.
Order of 12/18/73: 1) Suspended for two months without pay; 2) This count inherent in first count: dismissed.
5. 73 CC- 4 Filed 10/5/73
Robert J. Sulski, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he found three defendants in two criminal cases
guilty before the defense was fully presented.
Order of 2/19/74: Reprimanded.
6. 73 CC-5 Filed 11/19/73 and
7. 74 CC-4 Filed 5/9/74
George Kaye, Circuit Judge, 11th Circuit, Ford County
The Complaints alleged he: 1) Interfered with attorney-client relationship;
2) Refused to sign decrees; 3) Usurped authority of Chief Judge; 4) Abused
attorneys and litigants; 5) Received money to convene special jury; 6)
Filed false application for judgeship.
Order of 7/12/74: 1) Dismissed; 2) Dismissed; 3) No jurisdiction; 4) Dismissed; 5) Censured; 6) No jurisdiction.
Board Motion to Reconsider re Count 6 denied 9/4/74.
8. 73 CC-6 Filed 11/19/73
Robert D. Law, Circuit Judge, 15th Circuit, Stephenson County
The Complaint alleged three incidents involving driving while intoxicated.
Order of 2/21/74: Censured.
9. 74 CC-1 Filed 1/28/74
Randall S. Quindry, Circuit Judge, 2nd Circuit, Wayne County
The Complaint alleged he attempted altering of absentee ballots; consistently
engaged in partisan politics; adjudicated cases in which his nephew was
counsel.
Order of 4/11/74: Removed from office.
10. 74 CC-2 Filed 4/17/74
William A. Ginos, Circuit Judge, 4th Circuit, Montgomery County
The Complaint alleged he pressured jail inmates to be his informants;
raised bond because inmate would not be informant; released inmate on personal
recognizance who then fled; appointed his brother guardian ad litem and
acting probation officer.
Order of 7/12/74: Censured.
11. 74 CC-3 Filed 5/3/74
George H. Bunge, Circuit Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged he used judicial process for the collection of
civil judgments.
Order of 7/24/74: Complaint dismissed.
12. 74 CC-5 Filed 6/18/74
John P. Shonkwiler, Circuit Judge, 6th Circuit, Piatt County
The Complaint alleged he used judicial process for the collection of
civil judgments.
Order of 7/24/74: Reprimanded.
13. 74 CC-6 Filed 8/14/74
Keith Sanderson, Associate Judge, 9th Circuit, Henderson County
The Complaint alleged he assessed court costs against defendants after
charges were dismissed or findings of not guilty, knowing he was without
authority.
Order of 10/15/74: Suspended for one month without pay.
14. 74 CC-7 Filed 9/17/74
Charles J. Durham, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he dismissed criminal charges upon defendants
giving civil releases to arresting police officers.
Order of 12/11/74: Reprimanded.
15. 75 CC-1 Filed 3/7/75
James L. Oakey, Jr., Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he assumed an active role in the management of
a business and received compensation therefor in 1971 and 1972, and attempted
to conceal the receipt of this compensation in his 1972 Federal income
tax return.
Order of 7/16/75: Removed from office.
16. 75 CC-2 Filed 7/24/75
Philip F. Locke, Circuit Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged he failed to disqualify himself in presiding
over litigation where one of the parties was a close friend and with whom
he had a business interest.
Order of 10/21/75: Six months suspension.
17. 75 CC-3 Filed 8/21/75
Robert A. Sweeney, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he drove while intoxicated, interfered with police
investigation, resisted arrest and lawful police processing.
Order of 10/30/75: Reprimanded.
18. 75 CC-4 Filed 9/19/75
James Maher, Jr., Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he made improper statements to a woman in chambers.
Order of 1/16/76: Complaint dismissed upon resignation of judicial office.
19. 76 CC-1 Filed 3/22/76
William D. Vanderwater, Associate Judge, 16th Circuit, Kane
County
The Complaint alleged he detained a former tenant with the aid of a
hand gun, had him arrested and charged with theft, procured a guilty plea
and jury waiver, conducted a midnight proceeding in the police station
and sentenced the tenant to 8 months in jail.
Order of 4/26/76: Removed from office.
20. 76 CC-2 Filed 5/27/76
David Cerda, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he improperly employed the bail system as a means
of punishing defendants in prostitution-loitering cases and had a prejudiced
attitude towards such defendants and their attorneys, as evidenced by his
setting excessive bail, continuing motions to reduce bail until the case
was set for trial and excluding a defense attorney from his courtroom.
Order of 9/13/76: Suspended for one month without pay.
21. 76 CC-3 Filed 7/30/76
Samuel G. Harrod, III, Circuit Judge, 11th Circuit, Woodford
County
The Complaint alleged he ordered male defendants to have their hair
cut short as his and additionally ordered those who were probationers to
surrender their driver's license to the court to be issued in lieu thereof
a card identifying them as probationers; committed a defendant to jail
without bail on a bailable offense; directed defendants charged with alcohol
violations to pick up cans and bottles beside the road.
Order of 12/3/76: Sustained as to haircuts and drivers' licenses. Dismissed as to bail and bottles and cans. Suspended for one month without pay.
Suspension vacated by Illinois Supreme Court on appeal 11/30/77. Board Motion to reconsider denied 1/26/78. (See 69 Ill.2d 445; 372 N.E. 2d 53).
22. 76 CC-4 Filed 9/14/76
Angelo F. Pistilli, Circuit Judge, 12th Circuit, Will County
The Complaint alleged he embarrassed and ridiculed a young attorney
and misrepresented to the Judicial Inquiry Board that there had been two
sidebar conversations with the young attorney prior to the alleged embarrassment
and ridicule.
Order of 3/11/77: Complaint dismissed.
23. 77 CC-1 Filed 3/17/77
Paul F. Elward, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he published advertisements for his retention
prior to a retention election which advertisements materially misrepresented
a bar association recommendation that he not be retained, giving the impression
that he had been recommended for retention.
Order of 6/23/77: Complaint dismissed.
Board Motion for Reconsideration denied 8/31/77.
24. 77 CC-2 Filed 6/1/77
James A. Condon, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he caused two traffic tickets that were not assigned
to him for adjudication to be nonsuited without compliance with the regular
processes of law.
Order of 8/25/78: Reprimanded.
25. 78 CC-1 Filed 3/8/78
Dexter A. Knowlton, Associate Judge, 15th Circuit, Stephenson
County
The Complaint alleged he found a spectator in his courtroom guilty
of criminal contempt for wearing a T-shirt with the words "Bitch Bitch
Bitch," without affording her an effective hearing and without her
being represented by counsel or having an adequate opportunity to defend
herself, and sentenced her to three days in jail, which she served.
Order of 8/13/79: Complaint dismissed.
26. 78 CC-2 Filed 8/21/78
L. Keith Hubbard, Circuit Judge, 7th Circuit, Greene County
The Complaint alleged that contrary to settled and established law
of Illinois he refused to grant motions duly made and timely filed for
change of venue or substitution of judge, required the attorneys presenting
the motions to appear in person and argue the motions, attempted to inquire
into the motives behind the motions and denied the motions but granted
a change of venue or substitution of judge on his own motion. By such procedure
he prevented effective review of his actions as evidenced by an unsuccessful
mandamus action.
Order of 9/17/79: Complaint dismissed.
Board Motion to Reconsider denied 11/17/79
27. 79 CC-1 Filed 3/27/79
Eugene R. Ward, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged he directed and permitted a court clerk to conduct
part or all of the court calls on two days and enter orders disposing of
matters on the calls; failed and refused to consider relevant evidence;
acknowledged that procedures he followed and substantive legal principles
he applied were contrary to determined law; gave judgments for plaintiffs
where defendants were not present and where a careful examination would
dictate otherwise; gave judgments for plaintiffs who presented no evidence;
granted judgment for plaintiff in a case that had been settled; by not
explaining a ruling he misled parties.
Order of 7/10/80: Complaint dismissed.
Board Motion to Reconsider denied 8/26/80.
28. 79 CC-2 Filed 9/21/79
Keith E. Campbell, Circuit Judge, 11th Circuit, McLean County
The Complaint alleged he expelled two reporters from his courtroom
when one began sketching a witness, when they were not disrupting the proceedings
or interfering with the conduct of a trial in progress; was intemperate,
sarcastic and rude in so doing; ordered the courtroom doors locked for
the remainder of the trial without motion or consent of the defendant,
prosecution or any witness; without a hearing excluded all members of the
public from the courtroom for the remainder of the trial, refusing to allow
even a paralegal assistant of the defendant's attorney to enter the courtroom.
Order of 7/15/80: Complaint dismissed.
29. 80 CC-1 Filed 4/28/80
John W. Nielsen, Associate Judge, 17th Circuit, Winnebago County
The Complaint alleged that three pro se defendants filed written demands
for jury trials. When they did not produce written jury instructions, Respondent
ordered them to sign jury waiver forms. When they objected to signing because
a printed statement on the form stated they were voluntarily waiving a
jury, he induced their signatures under threat of a court order and then
announced in open court that all present were witnesses that the signatures
were voluntary. He later told the Chief Judge that he had talked the defendants
into signing the forms. He further said the defendants had not filed jury
demands which statement he knew was false when he made it.
Order of 12/29/80: Complaint dismissed.
Board Motion for Reconsideration denied 2/13/81.
Board Mandamus Petition to Illinois Supreme Court to direct Courts Commission to act, denied 4/16/82. (See 91 Ill.2d 130; 435 N.E. 2d 486.)
Board Motion to Reconsider denied 5/27/82.
30. 80 CC-2 Filed 6/10/80
Samuel G. Harrod, III, Circuit Judge, 11th Circuit, Woodford
County
The Complaint alleged he used the U.S. mails and other means to cause
unauthorized, sham and bogus subscriptions to periodicals, reports and
other publications, to be sent to Judicial
Inquiry Board members and counsel and a Courts Commission member who
had taken action against him in 76 CC-3, and to the state's attorney who
in 76 CC-3 had advised him against issuing haircut orders and who had refused
to file a brief in support thereof. Sent anonymous letters to the attorney
for the wife of this same state's attorney in a divorce action, suggesting
ways to discover the state's attorney's assets and informing him of a newly
enacted divorce law. Mailed an anonymous letter to a candidate for state's
attorney, charging him with corruption and threatening to cause an investigation
unless he withdrew his candidacy. Engaged in the practice of law on behalf
of his father, an attorney. Mailed will forms, admonishments on the selection
of attorney, memoranda, newsclips, press releases, sympathy cards, etc.,
to persons unknown to him and who were unreceptive to receipt of such items,
using the County postage machine for franking. Had printed at public expense
the sympathy cards and admonishments on the selection of attorneys. Made
regular press releases on his activities, one of which concerned a minor
he had sentenced and which matter by statute was confidential. Employed
press releases, public commentary and "wooden nickels" to convey
the impression of a "law and order" judge without regard to a
reasonable standard of individualized punishment. Attempted to intervene
with prosecutors on behalf of certain defendants. Was not prompt in attending
to judicial duties but fined and jailed attorneys who were late in matters
before him, irrespective of the justification they offered. By all of this
conduct he demonstrated an incapacity and mental inability to perform his
duties.
Order of 6/23/80: Complaint dismissed upon resignation of judicial office.
Board Motion to modify Order Re: Mootness, denied 8/26/80.
31. 80 CC-3 Filed 7/11/80
Charles A. Alfano, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that on September 5, 1977, in the presence of
a group of third party witnesses, who knew that Respondent was a judicial
officer, he sought to and did interfere with the performance and fulfillment
of a police officer's duties and responsibilities. Having unsuccessfully
sought to dissuade the officer from performing certain duties involving
the issuance of traffic citations to two youths (one youth being his son),
he became angry and thereafter verbally abused and physically assaulted
the officer in the presence of such third party witnesses. Following these
occurrences all relevant parties assembled at a police facility. At that
location and based on apologies, assertions of professional embarrassment
and indications of the likelihood of sanctions being imposed on him should
criminal charges be filed against him for his misconduct, he sought to
compromise the filing of such charges. Despite such efforts, he was criminally
charged and later acquitted of such charges.
(During criminal proceedings, Illinois Supreme Court affirmed confidentiality of Board records 7/14/78. See 72 Ill.2d 225; 380 N.E. 2nd 801.)
Order of 7/16/81: Complaint dismissed.
Board Motion for Reconsideration denied 6/8/82.
32. 80 CC-4 Filed 7/11/80
John M. Karns, Jr., Appellate Judge, 5th Appellate District
The Complaint alleged that on the night of September 21, 1978, he was
stopped and arrested by an officer of the Caseyville, Illinois police department
for driving under the influence of alcohol and weaving from lane to lane.
At the time of his arrest and during his subsequent processing, Respondent,
after advising the arresting officer that he was a judicial officer, cursed
and orally abused the arresting police officer and other police personnel
and refused to cooperate with police personnel who were processing him.
He further made threats to fight and challenged one or more of the police
personnel to engage in such fighting. The following day he aided and abetted
violations of Illinois law and participated in the circumvention, frustration
and obstruction of the appropriate legal and judicial process whereby the
charges would otherwise have been legally and properly adjudicated. As
but one aspect of such misconduct, he and his counsel took custody of all
pertinent records of his arrest; such records are no longer available and
he has never been prosecuted for the charges placed against him on the
night of September 21, 1978.
Order of 12/17/82: Reprimanded.
Respondent Petition for Rehearing denied 2/25/83.
33. 82 CC-1 Filed 2/1/82
Thomas M. Daley, Associate Judge, 20th Circuit, St. Clair County
The Complaint alleged that from 11/13/79 to 12/11/79 he failed to devote
full time to his judicial duties and received nonjudicial compensation
while employed as a watchman. He falsified judicial duty reports to the
Administrative Office of the Courts showing he was performing judicial
duties during the time of his employment as a watchman. His verified Statement
of Economic Interests filed with the State for 1979 falsely failed to show
this employment and income.
Order of 8/3/83: Suspended for two months without pay.
34. 82 CC-2 Filed 3/10/82
John J. Teschner, Circuit Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged that from December, 1975 to March, 1981 in the
course of his judicial duties he regularly used intemperate and injudicious
remarks, addressing defendants in vile, obscene, insulting and demeaning
language.
Order of 8/3/83: Complaint Dismissed.
35. 84 CC-1 Filed 4/27/84
Francis P. Butler, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that he conducted a hearing while intoxicated
and made intemperate and injudicious sexual remarks which were insulting
and demeaning to a 17-year-old girl and her parents.
Order of 1/29/85: Suspended for one month without pay.
36. 84 CC-2 Filed 8/20/84
Bruce R. Fawell, Circuit Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged that he retained fees for solemnizing marriages
outside of the regular session of the court's marriage division.
Order of 4/12/85: Complaint dismissed upon respondent's termination of office.
37. 84CC-3 Filed 8/20/84
Lewis V. Morgan, Jr., Associate Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage
County
The Complaint alleged that he retained fees for solemnizing marriages
outside of the regular session of the court's marriage division.
Order of 6/25/85: Reprimanded.
38. 84 CC-4 Filed 8/20/84
Duane G. Walter, Associate Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged that he retained fees for solemnizing marriages
outside of the regular session of the court's marriage division.
Order of 6/25/85: Reprimanded.
39. 84 CC-5 Filed 10/19/84
John G. Laurie, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that he failed to report offers of bribes he
received from attorneys and engaged in ex parte discussions with attorneys
concerning the merits of cases pending before him.
Order of 5/15/85: Suspended for one month without pay.
40. 86 CC-1 Filed 6/30/87
Robert J. Dempsey, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that he maintained a fee-splitting arrangement
with an attorney, presided in court cases involving property in which he
had a financial interest, purchased property with four attorneys from whose
cases he did not recuse himself when they appeared before him (nor did
he disclose the relationship), and failed to report income from his real
estate investments to the IRS or state revenue department or make full
disclosure on his financial disclosure statements. (Respondent submitted
his resignation during the investigation. The Board petitioned the Supreme
Court that it not accept the resignation. The Court ruled that the resignation
was effectuated upon submission.)
Order of 1/28/87: Complaint dismissed because respondent resigned his office. Charges stand admitted by respondent by his failure to deny. They are not moot because he could be reassigned as a retired judge and can perform marriages. The Courts Commission strongly suggests to the Supreme Court that respondent not be recalled or reassigned to judicial duties.
Board Mandamus Petition to Illinois Supreme Court to direct Courts Commission to assume jurisdiction, denied 3/26/87. (Supreme Court #64945).
41. 87 CC-1 Filed 1/21/87
Duane G. Walter, Associate Judge, 18th Circuit, DuPage County
The Complaint alleged that he made racially disparaging remarks to
a black youth and his parents during a juvenile proceeding, and made rude
and injudicious comments to a pregnant woman and her mother during a judicial
proceeding.
Order of 8/10/87: Complaint dismissed after respondent lost his retention election and was no longer in office.
42. 87 CC-2 Filed 1/21/87
Arthur J. Cieslik, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged intemperate, rude and sexist remarks to women
attorneys during official proceedings
Order of 7/30/87: Stipulation of the parties on the facts accepted and respondent reprimanded.
43. 87 CC-3 Filed 11/6/87
Keith E. Campbell, Circuit Judge, 11th Circuit, McLean County
The Complaint alleged 1) that he maintained a long-standing personal,
romantic and sexual relationship with his judicial secretary and terminated
her employment when she discontinued that relationship, 2) that he impaneled
a jury in the absence of the parties and counsel for the parties and 3)
that he failed to cooperate during the investigation into these allegations.
Order of 8/17/88: Sustained all three charges. Suspended without pay for six months.
44. 87 CC-4 Filed 11/24/87
Robert L. Sklodowski, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that to obtain a mortgage loan in Florida he
executed and caused to be delivered to a bank certain documents which falsely
claimed the existence of a $15,000 down payment, and to which offense he
pled guilty to a criminal information in Florida and was convicted, sentenced
and required to pay investigative costs.
Order of 4/15/88: Respondent reprimanded.
45. 88 CC-1 Filed 3/8/88
R. Eugene Pincham, Appellate Judge, 1st Appellate District,
Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that he engaged in political activity when he
was not himself a candidate for judicial retention or election in violation
of Supreme Court Rules 67(A)(2).
The Respondent brought a civil rights action in the Federal courts to enjoin the disciplinary proceedings brought against him. The Illinois Judicial Inquiry Board then brought a motion to dismiss with leave to reinstate its Complaint and the Respondent brought his motion to dismiss for want of prosecution.
The Courts Commission made no decision as to the merits of any aspect of the controversy because the Respondent resigned from judicial service.
Order of 1/28/92: Complaint dismissed upon resignation of judicial office.
46. 89 CC-1 Filed 6/22/89
James E. Murphy, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that Respondent received free use of cars from
an attorney's car rental client while attorney's law firm was appearing
before the Respondent in pending litigation.
Order of 2/9/90: Respondent suspended for two months without pay.
47. 89 CC-2 Filed 6/22/89
Glynn J. Elliott, Jr., Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that while high school students were observing
courtroom proceedings as part of a tour, Respondent singled out and called
one of the students before the bench. The student was castigated for creating
a disturbance even though no disturbance had occurred. The student was
ordered into custody and held in Respondent's chambers by handcuffing to
a chair. When the student was brought a second time before the bench, the
student was castigated again for the manner in which he approached the
bench. The student was again ordered into custody and handcuffed to a chair
in chambers. The student was required to apologize in open court before
being released.
Order of 12/7/89: Respondent censured.
48. 90 CC-1 Filed 8/16/90
George H. Ray, Associate Judge, 7th Circuit, Sangamon County
The Complaint alleged that the judge was arrested for driving under
the influence of alcohol and refusing to cooperate with the deputy sheriff.
The Respondent stipulated to the facts; as a result, the Courts Commission
found Respondent had engaged in conduct bringing the judicial office into
disrepute.
Order of 10/30/91: Respondent reprimanded.
49. 90 CC-2 Filed 9/25/90
John P. Tully, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that the Respondent, while a candidate for the
nomination to the office of Appellate Court judge in the 1990 primary election,
authorized and approved improper campaign advertisements and failed to
properly oversee his campaign finances.
Order of 10/25/91: Respondent reprimanded.
50. 91 CC-1 Filed 4/18/91
Robert C. Buckley, Justice, Appellate Court, 1st Judicial District
The Complaint alleged that Respondent approved and used campaign literature
during his campaign for election to the Supreme Court which cast doubt
upon his capacity to impartially decide issues that may come before him.
Order of 10/25/91: Dismissed, but rule violation established.
51. 92 CC-1 Filed 10/13/92
Roger M. Scrivner, Circuit Judge, 20th Clair County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent directed his court clerk to give
jurors credit for days they did not perform jury service and to issue work
affidavits for employers certifying that jurors were on jury service when
they were not.
Order of 7/29/93: Dismissed.
52. 92 CC-2 Filed 10/16/92
Arthur Rosenblum, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that Respondent embarked on a course of conduct
which exploited his judicial position, improperly used the prestige of
his judicial office to advance his private interests and improperly assumed
an active role in the management of one of his investments.
Order of 7/29/93: Dismissed.
53. 93 CC-1 Filed 6/10/93
John R. Keith, Associate Judge, 7th Circuit, Sangamon County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent sent some defendants to jail
without due process, improperly jailed others for contempt and failed to
treat litigants and others in his courtroom with patience, dignity and
courtesy.
Order of 1/14/94: Removed from office.
54. 93 CC-2 Filed 6/10/93
Michael C. Close, Circuit Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that Respondent made derogatory and demeaning
ethnic and nationality-based statements about defendants and witnesses
who appeared before him.
Order of 1/31/94: Dismissed.
55. 95 CC-1 Filed 4/14/95
Michael O'Brien, Circuit Judge, 16th Circuit, Kane County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent created and allowed others to
maintain the false impression that he is a recipient of the Congressional
Medal of Honor. Order of 7/24/95: Censured.
56. 96 CC-1 Filed 9/11/96
Steven Vecchio, Associate Judge, 17th Circuit, Winnebago County
The Complaint alleged that respondent engaged in a pattern of conduct
whereby he intervened in a number of matters involving police action on
behalf of his personal friends and acquaintances, using his position or
status as judge to affect or influence police conduct in matters not before
him
Order of 2/19/98: Dismissed.
57. 96 CC-2 Filed 10/17/96
Frank D. Edwards, Associate Judge, Cook County Circuit
The Complaint alleged that Respondent engaged in conduct where he possessed
a controlled drug, namely, 4.9 grams of marijuana, while travelling through
Phillip Golden International Airport, Ladyville, Belize. In addition, the
Complaint alleged that Respondent refused to appear before the Board in
response to its request for his testimony under Rule 4 (d) of the Board's
Rules of Procedures.
Order of 1/17/97: Complaint dismissed for lack of jurisdiction (Respondent withdrew from election and resigned from office).
58. 97 CC-1 Filed 1/23/97
James D. Heiple, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois
The Complaint alleged that Respondent failed to cooperate with and
disobeyed law enforcement officials who were investigating him for violations
of local traffic laws. In addition, Respondent volunteered information
that he was a member of the judiciary after being detained by police officers
who suspected that he had violated traffic laws. The Complaint alleged
in doing so, Respondent knew or should have known that communicating such
information was likely to influence the officers who were investigating
him and would be perceived by them as an effort to use his judicial office
to keep from being charged with a traffic violation.
Order of 4/30/97: Censured.
59 & 60. 97 CC-2 Filed 9/12/97
Judges Harry R. Buoscio and Paul Sheridan, Associate Judges, Circuit Court
of Cook County
The Complaint alleged that Judge Buoscio approached Judge Sheridan
and discussed with him an overweight truck citation that had been issued
to an individual for driving an overweight truck; Judge Buoscio showed
Judge Sheridan a copy of the citation and provided Judge Sheridan with
written information about the citation. It is also alleged that Judge Sheridan
acknowledged to Judge Buoscio that the overweight truck citation was scheduled
to be heard in his courtroom. Prior to the court proceeding and dismissal
of the citation, it is alleged that Judge Sheridan had ex parte conversation
with the Assistant State's Attorney ("ASA") assigned to prosecute
the case. It is alleged that during that ex parte conversation, Judge Sheridan
provided the ASA with the written information about the case that had been
provided to him by Judge Buoscio, asked the ASA to dispose of and dismiss
the case, and told the ASA that he was making the request based upon a
request that he had received from another judge.
Pending.
61. 97 CC-3 Filed 12/2/97
Judge James M. Radcliffe, Associate Judge, 20th Circuit, St.
Clair County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent presided over a hearing for a
preliminary injunction in which a Special Agent for the Illinois Liquor
Control Commission was forced to reveal publicly that the FBI was investigating
the attorney's client who sought the injunction. It is alleged that the
Special Agent learned of the hearing only 15 minutes prior to the hearing,
was not served with process or any other notice of the nature of the proceedings
before being called as a party-witness, and was not allowed the opportunity
to present any defense whatsoever. In addition, it is alleged that Respondent
denied the Special Agent's requests for time to obtain a lawyer or to make
a telephone call. The Complaint further alleged that Respondent issued
the preliminary injunction with no expiration date, without bond and without
setting forth any specific findings of fact.
Pending.
62. 98 CC-1 Filed 5/12/98
Jdge Oliver Spurlock, Associate Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent engaged in a pattern of sexually
intimidating and inappropriate conduct, made a variety of sexually intimidating
and inappropriate comments, and engaged in sexually intimidating and inappropriate
physical conduct toward female attorneys who appeared before him in his
capacity as an Associate Judge. In addition, it is alleged that the Respondent
failed to recuse himself from cases handled by a victim's assistance coordinator
with whom he had a romantic relationship, he improperly used his judicial
chambers to engage in sexual acts with a court reporter, and that he refused
to answer any questions by the Judicial
Inquiry Board concerning the proposed charges.
Pending.
63. 98 CC-2 Filed 6/22/98
Judge John R. Goshgarian, Circuit Judge, 19th Circuit, Lake
County
The Complaint alleged that Respondent berated in a loud voice a juror
for the jury's verdict in a criminal matter calling the jury "stupid"
and "gutless" for its verdict of "not guilty" on one
of the offenses, and stated that the verdict was the "worst"
verdict Respondent had seen in years. In addition, it is alleged that Respondent
raised his voice and said to an Assistant State's Attorney from the bench
in open court, "_ _ _ _ you and your office." Respondent is also
alleged to have refused to sign a court reporters voucher for payment of
services in retaliation against her for signing a petition against Respondent
concerning his disregard for following the ordinary selection process in
selecting his permanent courtroom court reporter. It is alleged that when
respondent eventually signed the voucher and returned it to the court reporter
it stated, "Maybe you better think before signing petitions."
The Complaint also alleged that on at least five occasions, Respondent
referred to a female judge in a derogatory manner in or around his chambers
or courthouse with various Assistant State's Attorneys whose cases were
pending before him. Pending.
Appendix E
State of Illinois
Judicial Inquiry Board
REQUEST FOR INVESTIGATION
OF A JUDGE OR ASSOCIATE JUDGE
Your Name:
(Please print in ink or type)
Address:
Telephone: Daytime: ( )
Evening: ( )
I have information of possible willful misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform his or her duties, or other conduct that is prejudicial to the administration of justice or that brings the judicial office into disrepute on the part of ________________________ of the Court in
(First & Last Name of Judge) (City), (County), Illinois, or to charge
that Judge or Associate Judge is physically or mentally unable to perform
his or her duties.
STATEMENT OF FACT
1. When and where did this happen?
Date(s): Time:
Location:
2. If your information arises out of a court case, please answer these questions:
(a) What is the name and number of the case?
Case Name:
Case Number:
(b) What kind of case is it? (Please check one below)
Criminal ______ Probate_____
Domestic ______ Relations Civil_____
Small Claims ______ Juvenile_____
Other (specify)
(c) What is your relationship to the case?
Plaintiff/Petitioner
Defendant/Respondent
Attorney for:
Witness for:
Other (specify):
(d) If you were represented by an attorney in this matter at the time of the conduct of the Judge, please identify the attorney:
Name:
Address:
Telephone Number: ( )
(e) Identify any other attorney(s) who represented you or any person involved in the case:
Name of attorney:
Address of attorney:
Telephone No.:
Attorney represented:
3. List documents that help support your information that the Judge has engaged in misconduct or has a disability, noting which ones you have attached:
4. Identify, if you can, any other witnesses to the conduct of the Judge:
Name:
Address:
Tel. No.:
5. Specify below the details of what the Judge did that you think constitutes misconduct or indicates disability:
(Please type or print legibly - attach additional paper if necessary).
* * *
Your Signature:
Date:
1. I believe a judge of the State of Illinois has committed misconduct, where do I send a request for an investigation?
You may register a written request with the
100 W. Randolph Street
Suite 14-500
Chicago, Illinois 60601
2. What is the JUDICIAL
INQUIRY BOARD?
It is a Constitutional agency created in 1971 to investigate and prosecute
allegations of judicial misconduct or incapacity.
It is composed of four public members, three lawyers and two judges who review all requests and determine what investigation is appropriate and which matters will be prosecuted before the Courts Commission.
3. How do I file a request?
You may write to the above address or call (312) 814-5554 to request
that a form be sent to you. Answer the questions on the form and return
to the above address
or
You may write a letter concisely stating the name of the Illinois State judge, the misconduct and the facts supporting your belief that misconduct occurred.
4.What is judicial misconduct?
Judicial misconduct is any violation of the prevailing standards of
judicial conduct which includes impropriety and the appearance of impropriety.
5. Do all requests result in an investigation?
All requests that allege judicial misconduct are investigated. Requests
that seek intervention in ongoing litigation or the review of judicial
decisions are beyond the authority of the Board to investigate.
6. Is my request confidential?
Your request remains confidential until the Board, after an extensive
investigation, publicly charges the judge with misconduct. In that event,
all documents filed with the Courts Commission become public as would your
testimony if you were to be a witness at the public hearing.
The rule of confidentiality also prohibits the Board from giving you status reports and the specifics of any investigation. Also, it should be noted that judges are not routinely informed when a request has been filed.
Judges are not contacted about an investigation unless and until it becomes necessary to the investigation.
7. What role do I play in the investigation and prosecution?
Once you make a request for an investigation and the Board determines
it has jurisdiction to do so, you may be contacted for further information.
In the event formal charges are brought against the judge, you may be called as one of the witnesses during the prosecution phase.
Formal charges are brought against a judge in the name of the Board and not in your name. You will only act as a witness.
8. If the Board does not take action on my request, what happens
to it?
Your written request is retained in the files of the Board for future
reference should other persons make subsequent allegations of the same
nature against the same judge. Your investigation file might then be reopened
to determine if a pattern of misconduct is developing.
9. Who decides whether or not a judge has committed misconduct?
The Illinois Courts Commission hears the evidence at a public hearing
and decides whether charges against a judge have been proven, and if so,
whether the sanction should be reprimand, censure, suspension without pay
or removal from office.
The Courts Commission is not part of the JUDICIAL INQUIRY BOARD, but is a separate Constitutionally created body consisting of five judges.
10. Have any Illinois judges been disciplined?
The four types of punishment noted in Paragraph 9 have been repeatedly
imposed in Illinois. Additionally, judges have resigned from office during
investigations and before any public hearings.
11. How long does it take to resolve an investigation of judicial
misconduct?
It may take many months for ultimate disposition of a case depending
upon the complexity of the matter.
12. Can I get a judge off my case if I file a request for an investigation?
No. There are statutory provisions for litigants to seek a substitution
of judge or a change of venue. The judicial misconduct investigation system
is not a substitute for those provisions.
13. Should I delay my appeal until the investigation of judicial
misconduct is disposed of?
No. You must proceed with whatever remedy is available to you within
the court system to correct any judicial errors you believe were committed
in your case.
The investigation of judicial misconduct is a matter totally independent of your litigation and is not a substitute for the appellate process.
State of Illinois
Judicial Inquiry Board
100 West Randolph Street
Suite 14-500
Chicago, Illinois 60601