Jenetia Marshall

Name: Jenetia Marshall

Age: 45

Party: Democratic

Current residence: 5th Subcircuit

Current position: Cook County assistant public guardian

Past legal experience: Cook County Public Guardian, 14 years; Law clerk, presiding judge in Markham, 1999-2000

Campaign funds available, July 1 to Dec. 31: $10,758

Campaign funds spent, July 1 to Dec. 31: $10,742.05

Law school: The John Marshall Law School, 2002

Campaign website: Marshall4Judge2018.com

Family: Single; two children, ages 11 and 20

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy spending time with family, arts and crafts, reading novels with my daughter and movies

Have you ever run for office before?

I have never run for office.

Why should voters support your candidacy?

Voters should support my candidacy because I would be a fair and compassionate judge. I know the law, how to interpret the law and apply it to facts to deliver a just and fair ruling. I understand the importance of protecting the public, along with judicial temperament and respect. I will afford every case before me the attention that it deserves.

Why do you want to be a judge?

I want to be a judge because I have devoted my entire life to public service, and becoming a member of the judiciary is the ultimate act of public service. I know that my background in social work, education and law would make me an outstanding judge.

What was the most interesting case you handled as a lawyer?

All of my cases are interesting. I have the opportunity to advocate for children and reunite families on a daily basis. I love to see the look on a parent or child’s face when they are able to reunite with one another. Every day and every case I have handled is interesting. There is no greater feeling.

What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is the selfless advocacy I provide to children and families on a daily basis. My greatest accomplishment in my career has been working with the tough cases where reunification seems impossible but we are able to accomplish it by working as a team and supporting the family.

What qualities do you plan to bring to the bench?

I have been an advocate in my community and I have come to know people from all walks of life. I have a background in education and social work. I know the law and how to interpret the law. I know how to issue spot and apply the facts to the law. I will ensure that everyone has their day in court, and are treated with fairness and respect.