Diana L. Kenworthy
Judge up for retention, on the Chicago ballot November 3, 2026. Incumbent.
Circuit Court of Cook County
Ratings
- Chicago Bar Association: Qualified
- Illinois State Bar Association: Yes
- Injustice Watch: Former public defender
Record
A Circuit Court judge since 2008, handling felony criminal trials at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse in Chicago; she previously served in the Domestic Violence Division and heard misdemeanor cases in the First Municipal District. Injustice Watch reports that in 2022 she acquitted Jimmy Jackson in the murder of Daisy Hayes, whose body was never found, citing a lack of physical evidence and reasonable doubt, and that Hayes' family has criticized her since. A judge stays on the bench with a yes from 60 percent of voters.
Background
Partner at a small family firm, circuit court arbitrator, and hearing officer for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (2000-2008); before that, a Cook County assistant public defender (1996-2000). Law degree from Ohio State University (1995).
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