Name: John Andrew O’Meara
Age: 52
Current residence: Riverside
Current position: Cook County circuit judge, appointed Nov. 18, 2016
Past legal experience: Curcio Law Offices, 2002-16; Broderick Steiger & Maisel 2000-02; Parillo, Weiss & O’Halloran, 1995-2000
Law school: The John Marshall Law School, 1995
Campaign website: votejudgeomeara.com
Family: Married, four children
Hobbies/interests: Reading true crime novels, fishing
Have you ever run for office before?
No.
Why should voters support your candidacy?
In November 2016 the Illinois Supreme Court appointed me to the bench. I have been sitting as a judge for nearly 15 months. I oversee the management of over 5,200 civil cases in my courtroom. I have proven experience for the position I seek. Prior to becoming a judge, I was a civil litigator for over 22 years with over 75 jury trials. I have been found “Highly Qualified,” “Recommended” or “Qualified” by all reviewing bar organizations. I am the most qualified and highest rated candidate in my race.
Why do you want to be a judge?
The most satisfying aspect of being a lawyer was helping people and making a positive impact on people’s lives. As a judge, I am honored to have an even greater opportunity to help people and make a positive impact on the lives of people who are seeking justice. Every day, in every decision I make, I strive to apply the law to the facts as fairly as I am able. In my opinion, being a judge is the highest calling in the legal profession.
What was the most interesting case handled as a lawyer?
Handling a medical-malpractice case involving the death of a young wife and mother of three. The wife died of a methadone overdose three days after being admitted to a hospital. Initially the doctor/hospital insinuated the wife secreted the drugs into the hospital. We were able to discredit that theory and obtain a multimillion-dollar settlement for the young family. We were also able to restore the wife’s good name.
What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?
Being appointed as a judge by the Supreme Court is my greatest career accomplishment.
What qualities do you bring to the bench?
A great work ethic, patience, courtesy, compassion, and humility are the qualities I bring to the bench.