Jill Rose Quinn

Name: Jill Rose Quinn

Age: 63

Party: Democratic

Current residence: Chicago

Current position: Self-employed, solo legal practice

Past legal experience: I would briefly describe it as 14 years working for small law firms and almost 21 years running my own firm.

Campaign funds available, Oct. 4 to Dec. 31: $1,274.99

Campaign funds spent, Oct. 4 to Dec. 31: $86.81

Law school: The John Marshall Law School, 1983

Campaign website: votejillrosequinn.com

Family: Engaged, one daughter, two cats, one dog

Hobbies/interests: Running, fitness, hiking, softball, popular culture, cooking, reading

Have you ever run for office before?

I have never even considered running for office before.

Why should voters support your candidacy?

I have worked for the people of the 10th Judicial Subcircuit for the past 21 years as a general practitioner, and my entire career has been devoted to solving the problems of individuals and families. My practice is broadly based; I have handled cases in the areas of family law, probate, criminal defense, LGBTQ rights, corporate matters, bankruptcy and civil litigation. I have served as an arbitrator in Cook County for 20 years.

Why do you want to be a judge?

The judiciary is the first line in the defense of individual rights, and of reason in government. The courts exist to ensure that people are governed by law, not by parties or individuals or ideologies. I want to serve the same people I have represented as their voice in the administration of justice.

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

I have handled many interesting cases because people are fascinating and continue to surprise me with every initial consultation. Recently, I represented a client who was terminally ill and temporarily residing in a nursing home. During her hospitalization and long illness preceding it, she had allowed her mortgage to go unpaid and I was retained two weeks before the sheriff’s sale of her home. It was of paramount importance to her to get back to her home for her final days. I was able to help collect her assets, obtain her pension, pay down the arrearage, negotiate her repayment plan and get her back into her own home where she was able to remain until she died.

What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?

I’m proud of the fact that I have been a successful sole practitioner for 21 years. I have provided quality legal services to my community without compromising my integrity and I have supported my family, community and profession through my service. I have always believed that it is a privilege to serve others as their counsel and advocate.

What qualities do you plan to bring to the bench?

I treat everyone I meet fairly and with respect. I’m skilled at analyzing and solving legal problems. As the only openly transgender judge to serve on the bench in the state of Illinois, I would bring diversity and a fresh perspective to the judiciary. The Chicago Bar Association, in finding me “Qualified” to serve as circuit judge, wrote “Ms. Quinn has extensive practice experience and is well regarded for her knowledge of the law, legal ability, integrity and outstanding demeanor and temperament.”