17th Circuit Selects Heidi E. Ruckman-Agustsson as New Associate Judge Marcia M. Meis, Director of the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts, and John S. Lowry, Chief Judge of the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court, are pleased to announce that the 17th Circuit Judges have selected attorney Heidi E. Ruckman-Agustsson as an associate judge. This vacancy is based on the upcoming retirement of Associate Judge Randy Wilt, effective April 15, 2024. Ms. Ruckman-Agustsson will take her oath of office on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. “Heidi Ruckman-Agustsson is a highly regarded attorney who is well suited for judicial office,” said Chief Judge John S. Lowry. “Her character, professionalism and legal ability will enhance the 17th Judicial Circuit.” Ms. Ruckman-Agustsson attended Northern Illinois University, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 1997 with a B.A. in Political Science. In 2000, she received her Juris Doctor Magna Cum Laude from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law. Attorney Ruckman-Agustsson has been of counsel with the Rockford office of Heyl Roster since 2006, and became a partner of the firm in 2012. She currently concentrates her legal practice on civil defense matters, including trucking defense, toxic tort, premises liability, legal malpractice, and workers’ compensation. Commenting on her selection, Ms. Ruckman-Agustsson stated, “It is my honor and privilege to be selected by the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit to serve as the next associate judge. I look forward to this exciting opportunity to serve this amazing community.” Attorney Ruckman-Agustsson is a member of the Winnebago County Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association, and American Bar Association. Her involvement with community and civic organizations includes leadership of the Chris and Jack Ruckman Memorial Music Scholarship Foundation, which provides scholarships to high school seniors and access to musical instruments, empowering children to nurture their passion for music without financial barriers. PDF of Press Release
