Judith C. Rice
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
Record
A Circuit Court judge since 2014 and presiding judge of the Domestic Violence Division since 2021; she previously heard divorce, domestic abuse, and eviction cases. Injustice Watch reports that she is also running unopposed for an Illinois Appellate Court seat in this election and will resign her Circuit Court seat if she wins it. A judge stays on the bench with a yes from 60 percent of voters.
Background
Senior vice president at BMO Harris Bank, overseeing community development and serving as its Community Reinvestment Act officer (2007-2014); before that, deputy chief of staff to Mayor Richard M. Daley (2006-2007), elected Chicago city treasurer (2000-2006), commissioner of the Chicago Departments of Transportation (1999-2000) and Water (1996-1999), city law and revenue roles (1989-1996), and a Cook County assistant state's attorney (1988-1989). Law degree from UIC Law (formerly John Marshall Law School) (1988).
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