Jack Hagerty

Name: Jack Hagerty

Age: 59

Party: Democratic

Current residence: Glenview

Current position: Partner, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP (formerly Shefsky & Froelich Ltd.), August 1994-present

Past legal experience: Associate, Phelan, Pope and John, Ltd., 1990-94

Campaign funds available, July 1 to Dec. 31: $303,499.73

Campaign funds spent, July 1 to Dec. 31: $172,123.47

Law school: IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, 1990, J.D., with high honors, Order of the Coif, Graduated 14th out of 266

Campaign website: jackforjudge.com

Family: Married with three children

Hobbies/interests: I am extremely active in a variety of community groups. The balance of my time is spent with family and friends.

Have you ever run for office before?

I began a run for the MWRD in 2006 but pulled out before the primary.

Why should voters support your candidacy?

I have been an attorney for 27 years. I have represented public and privately-held corporations and various units of government in a wide array of complex litigation in both state and federal court. I was recognized as a leading criminal defense lawyer in 2012 and 2013. I served as outside general counsel to Streetwise from 1992 to 1994 and I was the lead counsel for the city of Chicago in a constitutional challenge to the city’s Minority Women Business Enterprise Ordinance. I believe my legal experience has more than prepared me to be an effective and good judge for the Circuit Court of Cook County. I have been found “Highly Qualified” by The Chicago Bar Association, “Qualified” by the Illinois State Bar Association and “Qualified” by the Women’s Bar Association. My other bar ratings are pending. In addition, I also believe I bring a unique perspective to the job. I would be remiss not to mention my physical disability. About two years ago I was stricken near-paralyzed by a hematoma that hit my spinal cord. I was given little chance of a full recovery, but I am here now with the help of many. This has provided me with a unique perspective to bring to the bench. What happened to me and to my family will inform my decision-making from the bench. I believe this experience has made me more compassionate and aware.

Why do you want to be a judge?

I aspire to be a judge because it is important we elect the best qualified and experienced judges to the bench. Judges make a difference. I feel I have the legal experience and the life experience to be a judge who will run an efficient courtroom, rule on the law and evidence, and always conduct myself with fairness, honesty and compassion.

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

The most interesting case I ever handled was for the city of Chicago involving a constitutional challenge to their Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Ordinance in construction. The case presented the most complex expert issues that I have ever confronted.

What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?

I was lead counsel on the constitutional challenge to the city’s Minority/Women’s Business Enterprise Ordinance in construction. The trial resulted in one of the first wins for a municipality in this type of case.

What qualities do you plan to bring to the bench?

I bring a strong work ethic, knowledge of the law, life experience, and a reputation for honesty and decency.