Separate from the Judicial Conference, the Education Conference would convene judges from throughout the state to discuss substantive and procedural law, judicial ethics and conduct, and other issues relevant to effective administration of justice. The court reported that 112 judges were trained and certified in October to serve as mentors for new judges. During his or her first year on the bench, each new judge will receive ethical guidance, skills demonstrations, and assistance in integrating judicial and private roles. Legislators were thanked for providing funds to form a statewide network of local family violence coordinating councils along judicial circuit boundaries. The Supreme Court also commended the General Assembly for funding renovation of the Waterways Building in Springfield as the new home of the Appellate Court, 4th District.
Construction is scheduled to begin next month.
The legislature was urged to act on a change in the Judicial Retirement System that was introduced during the last session. Future Midyear dates confirmed To secure firm dates of future ISBA Midyear Meetings and obtain assurance of minimum rate increases, the ISBA Board of Governors has authorized use of the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers as the meeting site through 2004. The state bar association and Illinois Judges Association have conducted joint meetings at the Sheraton each December since it opened in 1992, and have been satisfied with the facilities and services offered. A total of 1,616 lawyers and judges attended the 1998 Midyear Meeting, along with 182 spouses and guests. During seven years at the Sheraton, total attendance at the joint meetings has ranged from 1,614 to 2,356.