2025 Judge of the Year
The Illinois Chapter of American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) recognized Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Patricia O’Brien Sheahan as its 2025 Judge of the Year.
Judge Sheahan was honored during ABOTA Illinois’ fall luncheon on November 19th at the Union League Club. ABOTA Illinois chapter members, Judge Sheahan’s fellow Circuit Court of Cook County judges, and special guests attended the luncheon. Judge O’Brien received a special framed War of 1812 American flag, following an introduction by ABOTA Illinois member and Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Christopher Lawler (retired).
ABOTA Illinois President Kevin J. Golden of Dudley & Lake emceed the luncheon. Past President Jill M. Webb of Law Offices of Jill M. Webb, who served as ABOTA National Secretary, updated attendees on ABOTA National activities. Membership Chair Scott C. Bentivenga of Lewis Brisbois also welcomed three new ABOTA members – Sara Davis of Cogan & Power, Peter Hoste of Gill Ports Hoste, and Kingshuk Roy of Freeman Mathis & Gary.
ABOTA dedicates itself to the preservation and promotion of the Seventh Amendment, which guarantees the right to civil jury trials. ABOTA also promotes the independence of the judiciary and professionalism among trial lawyers. Membership in this group of plaintiff and defense lawyers is by invitation only. Approximately 7,500 lawyers and judges are involved in ABOTA chapters in all 50 states.
From left: Circuit Court of Cook County Christopher Lawler (retired), Circuit Court of Cook County Judge and 2025 Judge of the Year honoree Patricia O’Brien Sheahan, and ABOTA Illinois President Kevin J. Golden of Dudley & Lake.