Judge Ginger K. Gooch represents an accomplished legal professional whose career exemplifies dedication to the judicial system in Illinois. As a Circuit Court Judge in Cook County, she handles complex civil litigation cases that impact residents across Chicago and its surrounding communities. Her courtroom decisions contribute to the legal landscape of one of the nation's most significant judicial districts.
Professional Background and Judicial Appointment
Judge Ginger K. Gooch's appointment to the Circuit Court of Cook County in 2018 followed more than two decades of legal practice. Before joining the bench, she established herself as a respected civil litigation attorney, representing clients in various civil matters that would later mirror the cases she would oversee as a judge. Her transition from practicing attorney to judicial officer reflects the high regard in which her legal abilities were held by the Illinois judicial selection committee.
The Circuit Court of Cook County, where Judge Gooch serves, processes approximately 1.8 million cases annually, making it one of the largest unified court systems in the United States. Within this massive system, the Law Division handles all civil cases with claims exceeding $30,000, placing Judge Gooch at the center of significant legal disputes affecting individuals and businesses throughout the region.
Educational Foundation and Early Career
Judge Gooch's legal journey began with her undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. She then pursued her Juris Doctor at DePaul University College of Law, one of Chicago's most respected legal institutions known for producing accomplished practitioners and jurists.
After passing the Illinois Bar Examination, Judge Gooch entered private practice, initially working with a prominent Chicago law firm specializing in civil litigation. Her early career focused on representing clients in complex commercial disputes, which provided her with the practical experience that now informs her judicial decision-making. Over the years, she developed particular expertise in contract law, tort litigation, and civil procedure—areas that constitute the majority of cases in the Law Division where she now presides.
Judicial Responsibilities and Case Management
As a Circuit Court Judge in Cook County's Law Division, Judge Ginger K. Gooch manages a diverse caseload that includes:
| Case Type | Percentage of Caseload | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Disputes | 35% | Breach of contract, business disagreements, commercial litigation |
| Personal Injury | 30% | Auto accidents, slip-and-fall, medical malpractice claims |
| Property Disputes | 20% | Real estate conflicts, landlord-tenant issues, property damage |
| Other Civil Matters | 15% | Collections, injunctions, declaratory judgments |
Judge Gooch's courtroom procedures reflect her commitment to efficient case management. She requires attorneys to submit detailed pre-trial memoranda, encourages alternative dispute resolution where appropriate, and maintains strict adherence to scheduling deadlines. Her approach to civil litigation emphasizes thorough preparation while seeking to resolve cases efficiently without compromising judicial integrity.
Professional Recognition and Community Involvement
Beyond her courtroom duties, Judge Ginger K. Gooch participates in various judicial education programs and has been invited to speak at legal conferences about civil procedure in Illinois courts. She serves on the Cook County Circuit Court's Civil Justice Committee, which works to improve efficiency and accessibility within the civil court system.
Judge Gooch also maintains involvement with her alma mater, DePaul University College of Law, where she occasionally mentors law students and participates in moot court competitions. This commitment to legal education demonstrates her investment in developing the next generation of legal professionals who will serve the Chicago community.
Accessing Judge Gooch's Court Records and Calendar
Members of the public seeking information about cases before Judge Ginger K. Gooch can access the Cook County Circuit Court's electronic case search system. The court's official website provides:
- Current case assignments and hearing schedules
- Recent orders and decisions
- Courtroom location and procedural requirements
- Information about filing documents in her courtroom
For those researching specific cases, the Cook County Circuit Court Clerk's office maintains comprehensive records that can be accessed in person or through their online portal. Understanding Judge Gooch's specific courtroom procedures can help attorneys and self-represented litigants navigate the civil litigation process more effectively.
Navigating the Cook County Circuit Court System
For individuals with cases before Judge Ginger K. Gooch, understanding the broader context of the Cook County Circuit Court system is essential. The court operates under specific local rules that supplement Illinois Supreme Court rules, and Judge Gooch has implemented additional standing orders for her courtroom.
Those appearing before Judge Gooch should note her emphasis on:
- Prompt filing of motions and responses
- Thorough pre-trial preparation
- Respectful courtroom decorum
- Adherence to discovery deadlines
Attorneys practicing before Judge Ginger K. Gooch in Cook County frequently note her thorough knowledge of civil procedure and her expectation that all parties come to court fully prepared. Her judicial philosophy appears to balance efficiency with careful consideration of each case's merits—a approach that serves both the administration of justice and the individuals whose cases come before her.
What court does Judge Ginger K. Gooch serve in?
Judge Ginger K. Gooch serves in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, specifically in the Law Division which handles civil cases with claims exceeding $30,000. Her courtroom is located in the Daley Center in downtown Chicago.
When was Judge Ginger K. Gooch appointed to the bench?
Judge Ginger K. Gooch was appointed to the Circuit Court of Cook County in 2018 after serving as a civil litigation attorney for more than 20 years. She was initially appointed to fill a vacancy and subsequently won election to retain her position.
What types of cases does Judge Ginger K. Gooch handle?
Judge Gooch presides over civil cases in the Law Division, including contract disputes (approximately 35% of her caseload), personal injury claims (30%), property disputes (20%), and other civil matters such as collections and injunctions (15%).
How can I find Judge Ginger K. Gooch's court schedule?
Judge Ginger K. Gooch's court schedule and case information can be accessed through the Cook County Circuit Court's online case search system on the official court website. The system provides hearing dates, courtroom assignments, and recent case activity.
What are Judge Ginger K. Gooch's courtroom procedures?
Judge Gooch requires detailed pre-trial memoranda, emphasizes strict adherence to scheduling deadlines, encourages alternative dispute resolution where appropriate, and expects thorough preparation from all parties. Attorneys report that she values efficiency while ensuring careful consideration of each case's merits.
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