Gerardo Tristan, Jr.
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 prosecutor
- Injustice Watch: Notable controversy
Record
Appointed to the Circuit Court in January 2019 and elected in 2020; hears civil jury cases, including evictions, personal injury, and small claims, in the First Municipal District. Injustice Watch reports that in 2023 his parents' caregiver sued him and a brother, alleging she was not paid $240 for her last three days of work and that he stopped her from leaving the home; the suit settled in May 2024 for an undisclosed amount. His brother told a 911 operator that day that he seemed intoxicated, and the police report says officers saw no signs of intoxication; he told Injustice Watch he was angry but denied stopping her from leaving or being intoxicated. A judge stays on the bench with a yes from 60 percent of voters.
Background
Cook County assistant state's attorney prosecuting felony and juvenile delinquency cases (2003-2019); attorney at his brother's law firm, incorporating businesses and defending employers in labor lawsuits (2002-2003). Law degree from DePaul University (2002).
Compiled from public sources: