Announcement, In the News, Press Release |
CHICAGO – Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II today announced that Judge Diann Marsalek will transition from her role as Supervising Judge of the Traffic Section to serve as Supervising Judge of the Housing and Eviction Section, effective Aug. 3, 2026.
Judge Diann K. Marsalek has served the Circuit Court of Cook County with distinction for the past 15 years, most recently as Supervising Judge of the Traffic Section, where she successfully led one of the highest-volume dockets in the Circuit Court. Throughout her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional administrative leadership, ensuring the efficient operation of the Traffic Section while maintaining the highest standards of judicial professionalism and public service.
"I am grateful to Chief Judge Beach for his confidence in my abilities and for selecting me to serve in this leadership role overseeing the Housing and Eviction Sections of the Court,” Judge Marsalek said. “I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to the challenge of expanding my knowledge of these important court functions while working collaboratively to support the efficient administration of justice."
Judge Marsalek has been widely recognized for her dedication to judicial education and mentorship. She has played a pivotal role in training and mentoring newly appointed and newly elected judges, developing comprehensive educational programs and providing practical guidance that has helped countless jurists successfully transition to the bench. Her commitment to fostering judicial excellence has had a lasting impact on the Court and its newest members.
"Housing and Eviction Court demands leadership that is highly organized and adept at engaging with government bodies, self-represented litigants, and other complex challenges unique to that docket," Chief Judge Beach said. "Judge Marsalek is uniquely qualified and skilled in these areas, and I am confident she will elevate the section's operations and better serve the residents who rely on it."
In her new assignment, Judge Marsalek will continue to serve as a trusted mentor and educator, sharing her extensive experience and institutional knowledge to support judicial development and strengthen the administration of justice throughout the Circuit Court of Cook
County. Her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to be invaluable assets to the Court.
Judge Marsalek's transition reflects the Office of the Chief Judge's ongoing commitment to matching experienced judicial leadership with the Circuit Court's highest-priority sections. Judge James Murphy-Aguilú will transfer immediately from the Domestic Relations Division, to succeed Judge Marsalek as Traffic Section Supervising Judge.
Judge Murphy-Aguilu brings a uniquely well-rounded background to his new role. Prior to joining the bench, he served as an Assistant State's Attorney in the Traffic Division and later as Chief of Staff in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, giving him direct experience with the Traffic Section from both the prosecutorial and administrative sides. Judge Murphy- Aguilú has distinguished himself during his time on the bench through exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to judicial excellence. Prior to his recent assignment to the Domestic Relations Division, Judge Murphy- Aguilú served for two years in the Traffic Division, where he quickly earned the respect of his colleagues for his sound judgment, collaborative approach, and dedication to the administration of justice.
During his tenure in the Traffic Division, Judge Murphy- Aguilú demonstrated outstanding leadership abilities and a natural aptitude for mentoring and educating fellow judges. He played an integral role in developing and delivering judicial training programs, sharing his knowledge and practical experience with newly appointed judges and colleagues throughout the Circuit Court.
“Judge Murphy- Aguilú has consistently exhibited the qualities essential to effective judicial leadership: integrity, fairness, decisiveness, humility, and a commitment to continuous improvement.” Chief Judge Beach said. “He has embraced administrative responsibilities with professionalism and has earned the confidence of court leadership through his collaborative approach and dedication to enhancing court operations.”
These qualities, combined with his firsthand knowledge of the Traffic Section's operations, make Judge Murphy- Aguilú well-suited to serve as Supervising Judge of the Traffic Section. The Circuit Court is confident that Judge Murphy- Aguilú 's leadership, vision, and commitment to public service will further strengthen the Traffic Section and benefit the judiciary, court staff, members of the bar, and the public we serve.
About the Circuit Court of Cook County
The Circuit Court of Cook County is one of the largest unified court systems in the world, serving more than five million residents with more than 400 judges across eight divisions and six municipal districts. The Court remains committed to providing fair, efficient, and accessible justice for all residents of Cook County.
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Media Contact:
ocj.press@cookcountyil.gov
(312) 603-5414