| Judge Sheryl Ann Pethers Education: Judge Pethers graduated from Kearsley High School in Flint, Mich., in 1975. She received a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Anderson College, in Anderson, Ind., in 1982, and worked as a newspaper reporter for several years. She was awarded a master’s degree in journalism and political science from Indiana University in 1986. She earned her juris doctor degree, with high honors, from the IIT/Chicago-Kent School of Law in 1991. Legal Experience: Before being elected to the bench, Judge Pethers was a partner at Swanson, Martin & Bell, where she handled medical malpractice, legal malpractice, product liability and premises liability cases. After law school and before joining the law firm, she clerked for Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Ben K Miller. Judicial Experience: Judge Pethers was first elected to the bench in 2004. She was initially assigned to traffic court and served as a “floating judge” for about a year, covering jury rooms and filling in as needed. She was then assigned to a forcible entry & detainer (eviction) courtroom for three years. She now presides over civil, non-jury cases in the Municipal Division, hearing contract disputes and claims of negligence. Bar Ratings: Judge Pethers has been found highly qualified, recommended or qualified by all bar associations. Memberships: The Illinois Judicial Association, The Alliance of Illinois Judges, The Lesbian & Gay Bar Association of Chicago, The National Organization for Women, The Sierra Club and The National Wildlife Federation. Birthplace: Judge Pethers was born in Bardstown, Ky, but grew up in Flint, Michigan. Hobbies: Fishing, gardening for wildlife, and learning to play the fiddle. Personal: Judge Pethers and her partner of 15 years live in Rogers Park with a Schipperke puppy named Aldo. |
