Linda Perez
Linda Perez

Name: Linda Perez

Age: 46

Current residence: Chicago

Current position: Cook County assistant public defender

Past legal experience: None

Law school: Northern Illinois University College of Law, 2000.

Campaign funds available, July 1 to Dec. 31: $54,550

Campaign funds spent, July 1 to Dec. 31: $30,987

Campaign website: lindaperezforjudge.com

Family: Single; youngest of four children raised by a single mother.

Hobbies/interests: Reading and travel

Have you ever run for office before? No.

Why should voters support your candidacy?

I have demonstrated a commitment to helping others through my service as a public defender. I have devoted my entire career to protecting the constitutional rights of indigent individuals and I know that I can have more of an impact on a greater number of people, if I am elected to the judiciary. It is important for all parties and the public to view the judiciary with reverence, but also to be able relate to the judiciary in order to increase the probability of effective communication, and in turn, compliance with court orders. While the vast majority of criminal defendants are black and Latino, that same diversity is not reflected in the legal profession, especially not in the judiciary of Cook County. I am a Latina who was born and raised in Chicago, and I am devoted to idea of a more diverse judiciary that is more reflective of the communities it serves.

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

A murder case where there was no physical evidence linking the defendant to the crime. The state’s entire case was built on circumstantial evidence. Our client refused to provide us with any information to help us with a theory of defense.

What would you consider your greatest career accomplishment?

The day I became an attorney with the Cook County Public Defender’s Office. I worked for the office before attending law school and dreamed of returning as an attorney.

What qualities do you plan to bring to the bench?

I have demonstrated my dedication to public service in Cook County throughout my career. I have taken advantage of the many assignment opportunities available to me as a public defender, both to grow as an attorney and to widen my base of experience. I have advocated for the use and expansion of detention alternative programs for juveniles and have also worked in the specialty/treatment courts, (Drug Court, Veteran’s Court and Mental Health Court) which has allowed me to serve as an advocate of restorative justice.