About Honorable James Murphy Aguilú

Cook County Circuit Court Judge

Judge James Murphy Aguilú has over 20 years of experience practicing law, working in public leadership, and volunteering in the community. As a Circuit Court Judge, he has dedicated himself to being fair, professional, accountable and providing all parties with respect when they come into the courtroom.

Since being elected by the voters of Cook County to be their judge, Judge Murphy Aguilú is now serving in this position after many years of hard work. Through judicial leadership based on integrity, compassion and equity in the delivery of justice, he continues his life long mission of serving the public.

Career in Public Service Prior to Being Elected as Judge

Murphy Aguilú had a successful and accomplished legal and public service career prior to becoming a judge. That career included time as a prosecutor, court administrator, inspector general and auditor for government agencies, ethics and accountability officer for the Cook County Clerk's Office and Private Practitioner. The broad scope of experience provides him with a one-of-a-kind understanding of the justice system from both sides of the courtroom.

As he progressed through each level of his career, he continued to seek ways to enhance public institutions; build confidence in those institutions and ensure fairness in the legal system.

Leadership in the Field of Law and Accountability

Prior to becoming a judge, Judge Murphy Aguilú was the Chief of Staff to the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. While in that position, he collaborated with local courts, legal organizations and other community stakeholders to create stronger court systems and improve citizen access to those systems.

He also served as Inspector General for the Clerk's Office. During that time, he led investigative efforts on issues such as ethics, transparency, accountability and institutional integrity. Those efforts resulted in the Inspector General's Office being accredited by the National Association of Inspectors General which reflects his commitment to professionalism and responsible public service.

In addition to his work at the Clerk's Office, Judge Murphy Aguilú held various administrative positions at the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), including Deputy Chief Administrator and Supervising Investigator. In those capacities, he assisted in overseeing investigations regarding civilian-police interaction while supporting accountability and reform efforts in a historically significant period in Chicago's history.

Legal/Court Room Experience

Judge Murphy Aguilú started his legal career as an Assistant State's Attorney in the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. There he received substantial courtroom experience as well as trial experience as a representative of the People of Cook County. Following his tenure as an Assistant State's Attorney, Judge Murphy Aguilú went into private practice as Murphy-Aguilu Law, Ltd. and then joined forces with O'Brien & Murphy-Aguilu where he engaged in litigation, advocacy and client representation.

His broad-based legal experience includes; Criminal Law, Civil Litigation, Government Oversight, Ethics/Compliance, Court Administration and Community-Focused Legal Advocacy. The breadth of his professional experience shapes the thoughtful, objective and disciplined manner in which he approaches cases today as a judge.

Support Hon. James Murphy Aguilu

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/JudgeMurphyAguilu/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jmaforjudge/

Linkdin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-s-murphy-aguil%C3%BA-33460324/

HLAI:
https://dev.hlai.org/members/james-murphy-aguilu/profile/

cookcountycourtil.gov
https://www.cookcountycourtil.gov/judge/murphy-aguilu-james#ocj--zoom-information-

Youtube Interview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5itRotsxBg

illinoiscourts.gov
https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/News/1253/Illinois-Supreme-Court-appoints-James-MurphyAguilu-as-Circuit-Judge-in-10th-Subcircuit-of-Cook-County/news-detail/

Education & Professional Development

Judge Murphy Aguilu obtained his B.A. in Behavioral Science and Law from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After completing undergraduate studies, he pursued his J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School. Beyond his work as a lawyer and in public service, Judge Murphy Aguilu has taught law students as an assistant professor and adjunct professor as part of several programs to mentor future legal professionals and provide support to emerging leaders.

Judge Murphy Aguilu maintains active involvement in a variety of bar associations and professional organizations including but not limited to; the Chicago Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, Puerto Rican Bar Association, Women's Bar Association and North Suburban Bar Association.

Community Values & Personal Life

Outside of his duties as a judge, Judge Murphy Aguilu is a devoted husband and father and a strong supporter of youth development programs; civic engagement opportunities; community initiatives across Cook County; and mentoring young adults.

His personal life continues to influence how respectfully; objectively; and compassionately he approaches each case that comes before him. Serving as a judge is not just a profession for Judge Murphy Aguilu it is a lifetime commitment to justice; public trust; and service to the people and communities of Cook County.