Kane County State's Attorney eyes judgeship

The Kane County Board would be responsible for naming an interim state's attorney if John Barsanti leaves office before his term ends, officials said Wednesday.

Barsanti said he is seeking appointment by the Illinois Supreme Court to a seat on the bench currently held by 16th Judicial Circuit Judge Michael J. Colwell, who is retiring Nov. 30.

Ken Shepro, a special assistant state's attorney to the county board, said the potential vacancy would be up the board to fill. He said Chairman Karen McConnaughay would recommend a candidate, who would then need the support of the full board.

"The appointed candidate could then be a candidate or not a candidate in the next election," Shepro said.

According to election law, a successor to Barsanti would have to be from the same party, Republican. But there would be no need for a special election because Barsanti would be leaving less than 28 months before his term ends in December 2012.

Barsanti said he would recommend an attorney from his office for the post if he is selected to become judge. He declined to say who that might be.

"I don't want to count my eggs before they're hatched," Barsanti said.

Joseph Tybor, press secretary for the Illinois Supreme Court, said any circuit judge vacancy must be filled with the consent of the full court. He said the decision would be made with a recommendation from Justice Robert Thomas, who lives in the 2nd Judicial District of Illinois, which includes the 16th Judicial Circuit in Kane, Kendall and DeKalb counties.

Shepro said any potential candidates for state's attorney would have to be a licensed attorney in good standing who lives in Kane County.