17th Judicial Circuit Selects Next Chief Judge The 17th Judicial Circuit has unanimously selected Judge John S. Lowry to serve as its next chief judge starting January 1, 2022. “The Circuit has made an excellent selection,” said current Chief Judge Eugene Doherty. “Judge Lowry has the experience and skills to be successful as chief judge, and he will have the strong support of all of his colleagues.” Judge Lowry stated, “I am honored to be selected by my colleagues for this position. I look forward to the opportunity to continue the 17th Circuit’s tradition of excellence.” The chief judge of a judicial circuit is a position created under the Illinois constitution. The chief judge has “general administrative authority” over the court, including the assignment of cases. PDF of Press Release
