Illinois Constitution ARTICLE VI - THE JUDICIARY
Illinois Constitution – Article VI: The Judiciary – Summary
Article VI of the Illinois Constitution establishes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the judicial branch of the state government.
🔷 Key Sections and Provisions:
1. Courts
Establishes a unified court system consisting of:
Supreme Court (highest court)
Appellate Court (intermediate appeals)
Circuit Courts (trial level courts)
2. Supreme Court
Composed of 7 justices.
Has general administrative authority over all state courts.
Handles appeals, particularly constitutional questions, and has original jurisdiction in limited cases.
Selects its own Chief Justice.
3. Appellate Court
Reviews decisions from Circuit Courts.
Judges are elected or appointed and serve terms as provided by law.
4. Circuit Courts
The general trial courts with jurisdiction over most cases (civil and criminal).
Each circuit may have one or more judges.
5. Judicial Districts
The state is divided into judicial districts for electing justices and organizing courts.
6. Judicial Selection and Tenure
Judges are elected by voters or appointed to fill vacancies.
After initial election, judges must stand for retention elections (voters decide if they stay).
Judicial terms and qualifications are specified (e.g., U.S. citizen, licensed attorney, resident of the district).
7. Discipline and Retirement
Establishes procedures for the discipline, removal, or retirement of judges via:
Judicial Inquiry Board
Courts Commission
8. Rule-Making Authority
The Supreme Court has authority to make rules governing court procedures, administration, and conduct of judges and attorneys.
🔍 Purpose:
To ensure a fair, independent, and efficient judiciary.
Provides a checks and balances system with mechanisms for oversight and accountability.
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