When you sit on the bench for the first time, you’re given a black robe and told to march up the steps. Everyone must stand and they aren’t allowed to sit until the bailiff gives permission. You’re protected by an officer with a firearm. People can’t chew gum, wear hats, look at their phones, talk, or even ask questions. Making matters worse, most people are in court for the first time and they don’t have legal representation. Some have their children with them or speak limited English, adding to their stress.

I noticed immediately how unnecessarily intimidating this situation is for people coming to court seeking justice. While I didn’t expect this to become my main priority, I resolved then and there that I would make it my highest priority to ensure equal access to justice for all because everyone deserves a fair trial.

Along with my fellow judges, I have been working to make our courts more accessible to everyone. In McHenry County we now have resources like a self-help center, an attorney help desk, and interpreters to assist those with questions or needing support in the court system. In my courtroom, I make sure to give instructions and explanations to start each day to help relieve stress. I explain as much as I can without giving legal advice and inform people that I will listen to them and answer their questions as much as I can. I am also working to get a child waiting area, as parents who have to bring their kids with them to court are often put at an unfair disadvantage in the courtroom. And in an effort to modernize the McHenry County court system, I am working on implementing and creating the policy for our electronic filing system.

I knew I wanted to work in the law after watching a trial at the old McHenry County courthouse while in grade school. Though unlike many of my peers, I didn’t want to be a big city lawyer; I wanted to be a small-town lawyer and now judge here in my own community.

This work is my passion because I love serving the people of McHenry County. McHenry County has been my home since I was 12 years old. I built my successful law practice here. I’ve represented three generations of families, even being named godfather for some of my clients’ children. I’ve even helped many local attorneys start up their own successful practices.

Becoming a judge has been the most humbling experience in my life, especially having to replace Judge Michael Caldwell, one of the most respected jurists in McHenry County history. It’s daunting knowing that I’m making decisions that affect lives, but I know that my experience helps me make the right decisions. As an attorney for over 35 years, I’ve tried cases in every courtroom in McHenry County, including rooms that are no longer even courts. And now as a judge for the last 2 years, I’ve presided over many different types of cases.

That depth and breadth of experience is necessary for judges to ensure fair legal decisions for all who seek justice. You can expect a fairer decision from me, an experienced judge, than someone who is inexperienced. My experience helps me make sound, thoughtful decisions, evidenced by the fact that I’ve never had a decision overturned. My experience ensures that everyone who steps into my courtroom is treated fairly.

Please vote for me for McHenry County Circuit Judge so I can continue to work to ensure equal access to justice for everyone in our county.

Judge David Gervais
McHenry County Circuit Court Judge