Ieshia Gray

Name: Ieshia Gray

Party: Democratic

Age: 40

Current residence: Homewood

Current position: Cook County assistant public defender

Past legal experience: Cook County Public Defender’s Office, 14 years; Cook County judicial clerk, one year

Campaign funds available, July 1 to Dec. 31: $16,547.27

Campaign funds spent, July 1 to Dec. 31: $12,831.48

Law school: Washington University School of Law, 2002

Campaign website: ieshiagrayforjudge.com

Family: Married with four children

Hobbies/interests: listening to music, reading and traveling

Have you ever run for office before?

No.

Why should voters support your candidacy?

Growing up in a working-class union home, I learned to value hard work and work ethic. It is why I have a deep connection to the poor and working class in our communities. As the oldest child of my family, I was the first in my family to graduate from a four-year college and to attend law school. I am humbled to think that the product of such humble beginnings is now in the run for judge and thank all of the voters for their support.

Why do you want to be a judge?

I am running for judge because I believe that justice in our legal system should include everyone, no matter where you live, what neighborhood you are from or how you look. I have spent the last 15 years inside the courtroom fighting for the rights of the voiceless. That courtroom experience coupled with my commitment to the community gives me a unique understanding of how our legal system impacts everyone, including families and the communities those families call home. As a judge, I promise to treat everyone that enters my courtroom with dignity, respect, and fairness.

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

I value the fact that each individual client’s case that I handle is of utmost importance not only to my client but to my client’s family. Accordingly, each individual client’s case is important, and I represent that client’s interests with vigor to reflect that value.

What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?

One of my proudest moments in my career was the day I announced my run for judge. I thank each voter for their support.

What qualities do you plan to bring to the bench?

Licensed for over 15 years, I have been assigned to the Felony Trial Division of my office for over a decade. As a result, I have acquired extensive court room experiences, litigating the most complex cases in front of juries and judges. These cases require a wide knowledge of the law and an ability to analyze legal issues instantly and competently. I plan to bring all of these skills and knowledge to the bench.