The Illinois Judges Association recently hosted its In Schools Open House, giving members an opportunity to learn more about the many educational programs and resources available to support judicial outreach throughout Illinois. From Judges Go to School Day and Page It Forward to mock trials, classroom presentations, and civic education materials, the IJA offers a

Be a part of the IJA’s summer wellness initiative! Join our IGA group on the StepUp app to track your steps and stay more active, and meet us in Lincoln Park Aug. 13 for the 5K Race Judicata.

The Illinois Judges Association (IJA) proudly welcomes Honorable Patrice M. Ball-Reed as its President for the 2026–2027 year. A respected jurist, accomplished attorney, dedicated educator, and tireless community leader, Judge Ball-Reed brings decades of legal experience and public service to her new leadership role. Her presidential theme, “Judicial Excellence on the Bench and

The Illinois Judges Association is pleased to announce the Hon. Daniel L. Jasica as its newest officer, joining the IJA’s leadership team as Treasurer for the 2026–27 year. Judge Jasica brings to this role the experience, dedication, and integrity that have defined his distinguished career on the bench, and the

4-DAY Option – Sat. April 10th to Tue. April 13th, 2027 7-DAY Option – Sat. April 10th to Sat. April 18th, 2027

What happens when students sit down with judges to talk about justice, fairness, and democracy? Justice250 is helping inspire the next generation of civic leaders through meaningful conversations about the courts, the Constitution, and the people behind the judiciary. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, this statewide Illinois initiative is

Welcome to a commemorative edition of The Gavel, honoring 55 years of the Illinois Judges Asssociation! Inside you’ll find diligently researched articles that celebrate the legacy, leadership, and endearing mission of our organization. Thanks to our Gavel editor, Hon. Celia Gamrath, and Hon. Alfred Swanson (ret.) for their contributions to

Please join us for this timely and insightful program focused on empowering women in the legal profession through connection, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue. Participants will explore the importance of women’s representation on the Supreme Court, strategies for reclaiming confidence and reducing internal pressure, practical approaches to achieving work-life balance, and

The IJA Security Committee Welcomes Sergeant Eric Ellis from the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office to lead our February security seminar on Tues., Feb. 10, at noon. Via Zoom, Sgt. Ellis will share guidelines for preparing and responding to threats in and around the workplace. 

Join the IJA Wellness Committee as they Welcome Dr. Diana Uchiyama for an all-new presentation on “Managing Courtroom Stress”. This online session will be held on Wed., Feb. 4, at 12:15 pm.

You’re invited to join the The IJA Security Committee Meet and Greet with Cook County Security Administrator Jeffrey Pfotenhauer. He will talk about his vision for improving judicial security in Cook County and will be available to answer your questions and hear your concerns. The session will take place via

This Veterans Day, the Illinois Judges Association proudly recognizes and thanks all who have served in the United States Armed Forces — especially our IJA members whose dedication to both country and justice exemplifies true public service. Throughout the week of Veterans Day, we highlighted several of our members who

Dear IJA Members, This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of our nation — and to reflect on the invaluable lessons that military service can teach us, both in life and on the bench. We are proud to share

Mark your calendars throughout the month of November and take part in the expanded Illinois Judges Association’s Annual Day of Service. This statewide initiative is another way we’re Building Bridges — connecting judges with their communities through acts of service, compassion, and commitment. Whether you volunteer at a local organization, support a community project,

The Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, also known as 2Civity, has released a video profile on Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis. The interview, part of their Profiles in Professionalism video series, highlights distinguished Illinois judges and lawyers whose character, ethics, and contributions have shaped the legal

BINGO! This September, IJA members are putting wellness front and center with our Self-Care September BINGO challenge! From morning workouts to mindful moments, judges across the state are taking time to care for themselves and each other. The BINGO cards offer fun, simple ways to build healthy habits—whether it’s going

National Pro Bono week is October 19–25, and we’re teaming up with the Public Interest Law Initiative to discuss the ethics of pro bono work as an active or retired judge. Join IJA President Justice Elizabeth Rochford, Ray McKoski and PILI Executive Director Michael Bergman for this virtual event on

The IJA Wellness Committee invites you to STEP UP to the October walking challenge.  Step-Up is a very user-friendly app that you can install on your phone for free.  It encourages walking/movement at all levels, and we can get some friendly competitions going among us.  We’re asking members to accept

Are you up for retention? The IJA Retention Committee is holding a member’s only Zoom seminar on Judicial Evaluation Applications on Wed., Oct. 8 at 8 am. Guest speakers include: Sign up to receive the Zoom link via email.