Amendment to Supreme Court Rule 39 takes effect Sept. 1, 2015

The Illinois Supreme Court has announced a rule change that will allow associate judge applicants to submit their documents electronically.

The change does not require applicants to electronically submit their applications and supporting documents. The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC) will continue to accept paper copies of applications.

“Allowing electronic applications for those seeking associate judgeships is the latest step in the Court’s continuing effort to utilize technology to make the entire judicial process more efficient and accessible," Chief Justice Rita B. Garman said.

"Recent applicants for vacant judgeships have told us that the current paper-based application system is cumbersome and costly, and this amendment to Rule 39 is responsive to their input. In addition, the electronic application process will benefit not only those individuals who apply for associate judgeships, but also the judges who review the applications.”

Prior to the amendment, those seeking to apply for appointment to an associate judge vacancy in Illinois had to go the Supreme Court's website, download a 16-page PDF application, fill in the blanks, sign it, print it and then mail or hand-deliver two signed, original applications to the AOIC.

Starting on Sept. 1, applicants will be able to electronically sign their applications and securely email them to the AOIC.

"By allowing an application to be electronically completed and emailed to the Administrative Office, it will streamline and improve the process for applicants; and in turn will greatly reduce the amount of paper used," AOIC Director Michael J. Tardy said.

The electronic signature technology that will be used allows applicants to "e-sign" by typing their name to create a generic signature, or by drawing a signature with a computer mouse, stylus or finger.

Applicants will be required to provide an email address and acknowledge receipt of an automated email before the electronic signature can be applied to their application.

Those who electronically apply for associate judgeships will be sent an email acknowledging receipt of a timely filed application and notified when an application is untimely. Following a successful submission, applicants will also automatically receive a copy of their completed application.

The AOIC will use a secure shared email address to receive the electronically signed applications. Only select staff will have access to the shared email address.