To celebrate Polish Heritage Month, we're highlighting diverse voices in the judiciary. The following features Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Alon Stein and his thoughts on his career, diversity, and more.
What motivated you to pursue a career in the legal profession?
Both my parents are immigrants. My initial plan was to pursue a career as an immigration attorney to help others seeking to legally immigrate to the United States, as they did.
While I was in law school, the 9/11 terrorist attack occurred, and immigration was limited. Instead, I became a litigation attorney representing small business owners who needed affordable quality legal services, many of whom were immigrants or first-generation Americans. I did that for 22 years before becoming a judge with the Circuit Court of Cook County.
What have been the most rewarding and most challenging moments of your career?
As a judge, I am rewarded every day with the opportunity to serve the people of Cook County.
As an attorney, the most rewarding and challenging moments of my career were making arguments to the Wisconsin and Indiana Supreme Courts.
What is one of your favorite traditions or customs of your culture? (Ex. food, special event, etc.)
At all of our Jewish holidays growing up, I would enjoy drinking Kompot, which is a drink made out of dried fruit, as well as eating blintzes.
How has your heritage shaped who you are today?
I am aware of history and am appreciative of the fact that the Polish people historically provided refuge to Jewish people expelled from Spain, England, and other countries. Polish and Jewish culture in Poland were intertwined. During World War II, my grandmother was hidden and saved by the Polish church, and I would not be here if not for that.
Why is diversity important on the bench?
Diversity on the bench enhances public trust and ensures that a broader range of life experiences and perspectives are represented in the justice system.