Maureen Ward Kirby
Judge up for retention, on the Chicago ballot November 3, 2026. Incumbent.
Circuit Court of Cook County
Ratings
Record
Appointed to the Circuit Court in 2007 and elected in 2008; since 2023 the presiding judge of the County Division, where she has heard cases since 2009, after earlier hearing orders of protection in the Domestic Relations Division. Injustice Watch reports that she dismissed a 2024 lawsuit seeking to let Evanston hold ranked-choice voting; in 2025 the appellate court ordered the case reopened because the City of Evanston was not a party, and the refiled suit is before her again. A judge stays on the bench with a yes from 60 percent of voters.
Background
Associate and partner at a Chicago law firm, handling commercial litigation (1989-2008). Law degree from Loyola University Chicago (1989).
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