Dear Voter,

I respectfully solicit your support and vote in the forthcoming Democratic Primary election, scheduled for March 19, 2024. I am honored to be a candidate for Judge of the Circuit Court, 13th Sub Circuit, Betar Vacancy. The Illinois Supreme Court appointed me a judge in February 2024. I'm currently in traffic court.

My career spanned 45 years, marked by extensive involvement in both civil and criminal cases at trial and appellate levels. This extensive period in law has seen me actively engage in over 1,000 cases, with nearly 130 jury trials. This is in addition to my participation in hundreds of bench trials and contested motions. My appellate practice included my role in the landmark search and seizure case of Illinois v. Cabellas before the U.S. Supreme Court. I have also presented cases before the Supreme Courts of Illinois and Kentucky. In times when the death penalty was enforced, I was specifically chosen by the Illinois Supreme Court to serve as lead counsel in capital cases. As a member of the Federal Defender Program, I have been appointed by federal judges to represent indigent defendants in both trial and appellate matters. My professional excellence has been recognized by my peers, earning me the designation of a Leading Lawyer in Illinois—a recognition bestowed upon the top 5% of lawyers in the state. My expertise in cross-examination has been recognized to the extent that transcripts of my cross-examinations have been utilized as teaching materials in law schools and for the continuing education of judges within Illinois.

My qualifications have been noted as Highly Recommended or Highly Qualified by the Illinois State Bar Association, Cook County Bar Association, Lesbian and Gay Bar Association, and the Decalogue Society of Lawyers, with all other bar associations finding me qualified or recommended.

I urge you to participate in the early voting, which commences on March 4, 2024, and concludes on March 18, 2024. The pivotal election day is set for Tuesday, March 19, 2024. For information on your polling location, please visit https://www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/elections/your-voter-information

I humbly request your vote. Kindly cast your ballot for #161.

I extend my sincere gratitude for your consideration.

Respectfully,

Ralph Meczyk