Judges
There are more than 400 circuit court judges in Cook County. Their decisions on the bench touch many aspects of life, from traffic tickets to orders of protection, civil lawsuits to criminal cases, and evictions to estates. Our reporting focuses on how judges are chosen and the power they have over people’s lives.
Posted in2026 Retention
What can you tell us about these Cook County judges running for retention?
We’re researching the Cook County judges running for another term in November for our judicial election guide. Have something to share? Let us know.
Posted in2026 Primary
Judicial election results: Three appointed judges rejected by voters in Cook County judicial primaries
Voters had no choice in more than half the races, which were uncontested. Several candidates won despite negative ratings from local bar groups.
Posted in2026 Primary
Live results: March 2026 Cook County judicial primary election
Live election results for the March 2026 Cook County judicial primary elections.
Posted in2026 Primary
What makes these judicial races on Chicago’s South Side unique?
This year, fewer judicial candidates are running overall, either countywide or in a subcircuit. But voters in the South Loop, Hyde Park, South Shore and Roseland neighborhoods are choosing from an unusually crowded field for two open seats.
Posted in2026 Primary
Where to find a copy of Injustice Watch’s judicial election guide for the 2026 primary
We printed 170,000 copies of our judicial election guide for the March 17 primary elections and distributed them across Cook County. Here’s where you can find them.
Posted in2026 Primary
No contest: Cook County judicial primary elections draw dwindling field of candidates
For the second straight primary season, more than half the races for Cook County circuit judge on the March 17 ballot are uncontested, with just 45 candidates vying for 28 open seats.
Posted in2026 Primary
March 2026 Cook County judicial election guide
Injustice Watch’s guide to the March 2026 Cook County judicial primary elections.
Posted inJudicial Conduct
Illinois Supreme Court removes reinstated judge following rebuke of conspiracy-filled blog post
Weeks after two lawyer groups urged his removal over a blog post on a conservative opinion site, the state high court vacated retired Judge James R. Brown’s temporary assignment to the Cook County Circuit Court.
Posted inJudicial Conduct
‘Blatantly disrespectful’: Lawyer groups push for removal of reinstated judge
The Illinois Supreme Court brought Judge James R. Brown back to Cook County to address a judge shortage — but two bar groups say his recent comments in a conservative blog should disqualify him.