Laura Ayala-Gonzalez
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 judge since 2020; hears criminal cases at the George Leighton Criminal Courthouse in Chicago after handling traffic and eviction cases. Injustice Watch reports that in 2024 she presided over the trial of former Chicago high school basketball player Raekwon Drake, convicted of second-degree murder for killing a man who stole his French bulldog, and sentenced him to 14 years in prison. A judge stays on the bench with a yes from 60 percent of voters.
Background
Cook County assistant state's attorney who prosecuted serious crimes, including murder, and supervised felony trial attorneys (2003-2020). Law degree from UIC Law (formerly John Marshall Law School) (2002).
Compiled from public sources: