Illinois Supreme Court Justice Lloyd A. Karmeier announced Thursday that an application process has begun for a Circuit Court vacancy in the 20th Judicial Circuit. The at-large Circuit vacancy is being created by the announced resignation of Circuit Judge Michael O’Malley, effective Aug. 1, 2010. Under the Illinois Constitution, the Supreme Court holds the authority to fill interim judicial vacancies. Justice Karmeier uses an application, evaluation and interview process to make recommendations to the Court for vacancies in the Fifth Judicial District. Notice of the vacancy will be posted in courthouses throughout the 20th Judicial Circuit. Applicants must submit a cover letter with the Requested Information of an Applicant Form to:

• Justice Lloyd A. Karmeier
• Supreme Court of Illinois
• P.O. Box 266
• Nashville, IL 62263

The form may be obtained from the office of Chief Judge John Baricevic of the 20th Judicial Circuit; the presiding judges or circuit clerks of the counties within the 20th Circuit or from Justice Karmeier. Applicants' cover letter and completed form must be received in Justice Karmeier's office no later than Friday, July 2, 2010. The person appointed to fill the vacancy will serve until the position is  filled through the November, 2012 general election. The appointment will terminate December 3, 2012. To be eligible for appointment, a person must be a resident of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit at the time of the appointment. The 20th Judicial Circuit is comprised of five counties in southwestern Illinois: Monroe, Perry, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington.