Member Login
Search

The Illinois Judges Association consists of over 1300 current and retired judges. The Association supports judicial excellence and professional development and judicial education, fosters public confidence in an independent judiciary, works to preserve the independence of the judiciary by educating the public and students, and promotes a diverse judiciary that administers justice in a fair and impartial court system. 

IJA President Justice Elizabeth Rochford discusses the May 2025 Mental Health Summit and IJA Running Club with IJA Board Member Hon. John Fairman.

 

 

July 2025 Gavel IJA Summer Newsletter: Bridging the Courthouse and Community

We’re proud to introduce the refreshed edition of The Gavel, the Illinois Judges Association’s semiannual newsletter — now with a new look, enhanced content, and more ways to stay connected.

In each issue, you’ll find updates on IJA initiatives, spotlights on our members, highlights from committee work, and opportunities to engage with colleagues across the state. As part of our ongoing commitment to clear communication and community-building, The Gavel is your go-to source for all things IJA.

From judicial milestones to public service, wellness tips to upcoming events — we invite you to explore, share, and get involved.

Click below to see the whole newsletter: 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

PRO BONO SPOTLIGHT: The Hon. Toya Harvey

 

 

 

“For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required.” Luke 12:48. This is the life principle of Judge Toya T. Harvey, the IJA Pro Bono Committee’s spotlighted judge of the month. 

Judge Harvey is a Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, currently assigned to the Law Division, Jury Trial Section in the Richard M. Daley Center.  Since her appointment to the bench, she has been active in the work to improve access to justice, continuing education for judges and building trust and confidence in our judiciary.  Judge Harvey serves, not only as a member of the Illinois Supreme Court Judicial Education Conference, but also as a member of the faculty, as well as a course supervisor and co-chairman for the Professional Responsibility training track.  She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Illinois Judges Association and additionally serves as the Co-Chairman of the Chicago Bar Foundation Pro Se Advisory Committee. 

Judge Harvey is not merely a public servant.  She is a proven leader who works diligently to forge the paths of leadership for others in her community.  She is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and also a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Various boards in the Greater Chicago Area continue to reap the benefits of her resolve and leadership abilities, such as the Family Christian Healthcare Center, where she serves as the board’s vice chairman, FQHC, and also Life Choices We Make, a juvenile diversion organization, for which she serves as an executive board member. To read more click here: Pro bono spotlight Harvey