By: Ashmar Mandou
Increasing the presence of Latinos in judicial roles is vital for ensuring fairness and impartiality, while also reflecting the diversity of the population within Illinois and while strides have been taken, according to the Latino Judges Association, Latinos remain underrepresented in judicial roles. For two Latino candidates, Julian Sanchez Crozier and Jessica Velez, determination is key to forge a pathway to the bench. Born and raised in the Southwest Side of Chicago, Julian Sanchez Crozier and first generation Ecuadorian-American Jessica Velez are each running for Judge of the 16th Subcircuit Court of Cook County. With strong community ties, a wealth of experience, and endorsements from Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García, 22nd Ward Alderperson Michael Rodriguez, State Senator Celina Villanueva, and Cook County Commissioner Alma E. Anaya, among others, Sanchez Crozier and Velez are ready to bring valuable perspective to the bench and equality for all who will enter their courtroom. Lawndale Bilingual News conducted a written interview with Sanchez Crozier and Velez who shared their experiences working in Law, how they embody important qualities for judgeship, and why residents within the 16th Judicial Subcircuit Court should vote for them.
Candidate Julian Sanchez Crozier for 16th Judicial Subcircuit Court of Cook County
Lawndale News: You have garnered a wealth of experience from working in the private sector as a partner at Ciesielski, Soukaras, and Crozier Law, LLC, to being a prosecutor at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. How do you believe those experiences will help you as you prepare for judgeship?
Julian Sanchez Crozier: I believe that my experience as a prosecutor and in private practice has not only given me the requisite experience to be a judge, as I have worked in State courtrooms essentially every day of my legal career, but I have gained an important perspective by working on cases that involve people from differing backgrounds that have been involved in these cases. I believe that having this experience as both a prosecutor and as an attorney in private practice prepares me for having to evaluate cases being litigated by attorneys on opposing sides while understanding the impact my decisions will have on the people involved in the cases before me.
LN: What do you consider to be the most important qualities for a judge? How do you embody those qualities?
JSC: The most important qualities for a judge are being knowledgeable, open-minded, respectful, and fair. In regard to being knowledgeable, I have a passion for legal research and continue to work on staying up-to-date on the current state of the law and not just relying on my past experience. However, just because I work on staying current on the law, I remain open-minded to new concepts and ideas. In my current role, I embody this by discussing legal issues with fellow attorneys or even when litigating issues with opposing counsel. If I were to be elected judge, it would be important to keep an open mind to arguments made by attorneys, including arguments that I had not considered before.
LN: If elected, how you will work to ensure equality for people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic situations who enter your courtroom?
JSC: If elected, I will apply the law to the facts of each individual case and make rulings without regard to someone’s background or socioeconomic status. However, I would strive to ensure that all court participants are aware of their legal rights and remain sensitive to cultural diversity and differences. For example, I would ensure that participants are aware of their right to language access and or accommodations based on disability.
LN: For those who reside in the 16th Subcircuit, what message do you have for them as to why they should vote for you?
JSC: A: I was born and raised in Chicagoland’s Southwest Side, which encompasses much of the 16th Judicial Subcircuit, where I continue to live and raise my family. My legal experience along with my background provide me with a valuable perspective that I could bring to the judiciary of Cook County. As a judge, I will ensure that the rule of law is upheld, while treating all people in a fair, respectful, and transparent manner.
Candidate Jessica Velez for 16th Judicial Subcircuit Court of Cook County
Lawndale News: You have garnered a wealth of experience from working in the private sector as a civil litigator for Johnson and Bell to currently serving as Deputy General Counsel for the Illinois Office of the Comptroller. How do you believe those experiences help you as you prepare for judgeship?
Jessica Velez: Throughout my legal career, I have had the privilege of being mentored by experienced and insightful attorneys who helped shape my development as an attorney. During my time in private practice as a litigator, I managed cases from beginning to end, including trial preparation, settlement conferences, and courtroom advocacy. Just three years after graduating from law school, I successfully conducted my first solo civil litigation trial, securing a favorable verdict for my client. In my current role, I have broadened my expertise by working on matters involving the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), labor and employment issues, and provided legal counsel to various departments within the office. This has included advising on policy changes, legislative matters, and compliance initiatives. My experience across both the private and public sectors has strengthened a wide range of professional skills to help serve on the bench, including attention to detail, adaptability, initiative, emotional intelligence, patience, and a commitment to respectful and effective communication.
LN: What do you consider to be the most important qualities for a judge? How do you embody those qualities?
JV: One of the most important qualities of a judge is the ability to foster and maintain public trust in the legal system. This trust is earned through a consistent commitment to integrity, impartiality, and patience. I strive to embody these principles in every aspect of my work. In approaching cases and legal issues, I consider all perspectives carefully and thoughtfully. I remain patient in communicating my reasoning and ensuring that all parties understand the legal basis for my decisions, while always upholding the rule of law.
LN: If elected, how you will work to safeguard equality for people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic situations who enter your courtroom?
JV: If elected, I am committed to upholding the judicial canons with integrity and professionalism. I will apply the law impartially, drawing upon my life experiences and perspective where appropriate to inform thoughtful and balanced decision-making. I am dedicated to ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all who appear before the court. In addition, I will try incorporate the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into my judicial approach, remaining mindful of implicit bias and committed to fostering a courtroom environment that is respectful and inclusive.
LN: For those who reside in the 16th District, what message do you have for them as to why they should vote for you?
JV: As a proud Latina, born and raised in Chicago, I bring a perspective to the bench that reflects the strength, diversity, and resilience of our communities. I have over a decade of experience as an attorney in both the private and public sector and I have dedicated my career to upholding the law with integrity and fairness. I’m running to ensure that our courts deliver decisions that protect public safety, promote justice, and guarantee equal access for all.
Currently, both candidates are seeking signatures to be placed on the ballot this Fall. If you would like to learn more about the candidates, donate, or volunteer, visit www.jscforjudge.com and www.jessicavelezforjudge.com.
Photo Caption 1) Julian Sanchez Crozier-candidate for the 16th Judicial Subcircuit Court of Cook County
Photo Caption 2) Jessica Velez-candidate for the 16th Judicial Subcircuit Court of Cook County
