Choices for judge in sub-circuit 13

To the editor: There are two vacancies on the Feb. 5 Republican primary ballet for the Judicial 13th sub-circuit.

I make it a practice to carefully evaluate those candidates running for judge because once judges are elected they are usually seated forever. I especially look at those running in the 13th sub-circuit, the one that serves our local area with its courthouse located in Rolling Meadows. Here are my two choices to fill the two open vacancies:

Judge Margarita Hoffman is a sitting judge in Rolling Meadows having been selected by the Supreme Court. She has been overseeing cases at the Rolling Meadows courthouse for well over a year and a half. She is the only candidate with experience as a judge and is considered by trial lawyers from both sides (prosecution and defense) to be an outstanding judge. Judge Hoffman is very knowledgeable of the law, has a great demeanor, is highly experienced, and above all has a reputation as being fair to everyone that appears before her. All of the bar associations have approved her. The bottom line is that Judge Hoffman has earned her position and we need to keep her sitting in Rolling Meadows.

The other vacancy has several candidates, none of which has ever served as a judge. However, one candidate that stands out as having a tremendous amount of trial experience is Arlington Heights attorney Annie O'Donnell. Just this past week she was found to be "highly qualified" by the Northwest Suburban Bar Association.

Ms. O'Donnell is a long-time practicing trial attorney and served as a public defender in the criminal courts for a number of years before entering into private practice. She is well regarded by both judges and practicing trial attorneys from our area.

I am casting my votes for both Judge Margarita Hoffman and attorney Annie O' Donnell and I urge you to do the same.

Jack Wagner

Palatine