Finalists Announced for 2026 Associate Judge Positions

A closer look at the diverse backgrounds and qualifications of the Short List candidates

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:54pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic interior of a courthouse or law library, with sunlight streaming through windows and casting long shadows across the space, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of the judicial process.The selection of associate judges shapes the future of Illinois' judicial system, with the finalists bringing a range of legal expertise and community perspectives.Bridgeview Today

In Part 2 of this two-part series, FWIW continues its examination of the individual finalists for the 2026 associate judge positions in Illinois. The candidates come from a range of legal backgrounds, including private practice, public service, and the judiciary, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to the selection process.

Why it matters

The selection of associate judges is a critical process that shapes the future of the state's judicial system. These finalists represent a cross-section of the legal community, and their appointments could have far-reaching impacts on issues of access to justice, legal interpretation, and the overall administration of the courts.

The details

The finalists include Mona Naser, a partner at Carlson Dash with expertise in commercial litigation and real estate; Ginger L. Odom, a former director of the Expungement Unit in the Office of the State Appellate Defender; Nickolas G. Pappas, a sole practitioner with experience in the Cook County State's Attorney's Office; Julia B. Ramirez, a Cook County Assistant State's Attorney; Anthony Ruffin, a career Cook County Assistant Public Defender; Linda Sackey, a former judicial clerk to Illinois Supreme Court Justice Mary Jane Theis; and Smith Spencer, an attorney with Michael D. Gallo & Associates who previously served as an Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago.

  • The finalists were announced in early April 2026.
  • The appointments are expected to be made in the coming months.

The players

Mona Naser

A partner at Carlson Dash, specializing in commercial litigation, real estate, and general corporate law. She has been licensed to practice in Illinois since 2002 and is also licensed in Wisconsin and Arizona.

Ginger L. Odom

One of the two appointed judges on the Short List, she was previously the Director of the Expungement Unit in the Office of the State Appellate Defender. She has been licensed in Illinois since 2003.

Nickolas G. Pappas

A sole practitioner with an office on South Michigan Avenue, he has been licensed to practice in Illinois since 1995. Before law school, he worked as an analyst at Montgomery Ward's corporate headquarters.

Julia B. Ramirez

A Cook County Assistant State's Attorney who has been licensed to practice in Illinois since 2008.

Anthony Ruffin

A career Cook County Assistant Public Defender, practicing in the Child Protection Division, Juvenile Justice Division, and Felony Trial Division. He has been licensed to practice in Illinois since 1994.

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What they’re saying

“These finalists represent the diversity and depth of talent within the Illinois legal community. Their appointments will be crucial in shaping the future of our state's judiciary.”

— Jack Leyhane, Author

What’s next

The Illinois Supreme Court is expected to make the final selections from the Short List in the coming months.

The takeaway

The 2026 associate judge selection process highlights the importance of a diverse and experienced judiciary that can effectively address the complex legal challenges facing Illinois communities. The finalists' backgrounds and qualifications suggest a strong pool of candidates who could make valuable contributions to the state's judicial system.