The Illinois court system will get a new leader next week. Friday Tom Kilbride concluded his 3-year term as chief justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, and on Monday Justice Rita Garman will take over.
Kilbride is probably best known for his efforts to allow cameras and microphones in trial courts, and it's now allowed in 35 counties and 13 judicial circuits. But he's also proud of some other accomplishments, starting with educating legislators about the needs of the court system. Kilbride was successful in getting 16 million dollars for probation services after many years of reductions. Last year, he also organized the "Illinois Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission" - to help the growing number of Illinois residents who don't speak English.
As an associate justice, Kilbride will pass on his administrative duties to the new chief, and will now focus most of his attention on cases and opinions. Kilbride was first elected to the Illinois Supreme Court in 2000, and survived a well-funded attempt in 2010 to block his retention.
