Justice Lisa Holder White and the Illinois Supreme Court have announced the appointment of Fifteenth Circuit Associate Judge John D. Hay as Resident Circuit Judge of Jo Daviess County.
Judge Hay is being appointed to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Resident Circuit Judge Kevin J. Ward. The appointment of Judge Hay is effective September 2, 2025, and will conclude on December 7, 2026.
“Throughout his legal career, Judge Hay has demonstrated exceptional legal ability, a strong commitment toward the betterment of his community, and the temperament we expect of someone privileged to serve as a judge,” Justice Holder White said. “He is perfectly suited for this position.”
Judge Hay has been an Associate Judge in the Fifteenth Circuit since being appointed to that position in 2021. Prior to joining the bench, Judge Hay was the State’s Attorney of Jo Daviess County from 2012 to 2021 where he served as chief law enforcement officer in the county. From 2007 to 2012 he was an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Stephenson County State’s Attorney’s Office.
“It is an honor to be appointed to the position of Resident Circuit Judge of Jo Daviess County,” Judge Hay said. “It is a privilege and responsibility I do not take lightly. I promise to serve with hard work and integrity, ensuring each person is treated with fairness and respect. I want to thank Justice Holder White and the selection committee for their confidence in me and giving me this opportunity.”
Judge Hay earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Illinois University and earned his Juris Doctor from the Northern Illinois University College of Law.
His professional affiliations include the Jo Daviess County Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association, and the Illinois Judges Association.