Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Judge Jorge Ortiz

10/29/2024

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we're recognizing diverse voices in the judiciary. The following features Circuit Judge Jorge Ortiz of the 19^th Judicial Circuit and his thoughts on his career, diversity, and more.

What inspired you to pursue law, and eventually, become a judge?

When I was in 4th grade, my mother said I should become a lawyer. I might have been smarting off and trying to talk my way out of doing chores. She planted the notion in my mind. But seriously, having witnessed discrimination in various settings, I wanted to serve in a profession in which one could work to protect people's rights and uphold fairness and equality. Lawyers are uniquely positioned to do so. I also believe that being a judge is one of the highest forms of public service.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life and/or career.

Without question, my parents and eight brothers and sisters. My parents made many sacrifices migrating from Puerto Rico and, despite not having many resources, ensured that we received a quality education. My siblings paved the way for me. Being the youngest sometimes has its benefits.

I was also blessed to have some amazing teachers and coaches at St. Sylvester School in Chicago. Lena (Acciari) Matschke taught me in the 5th, 6th and 8th grades and instilled in me, at a very young age, the belief that I could achieve my goals in life. She was an outstanding teacher and is one of the kindest persons I have ever known. Patrick Szady was a great teacher, mentor and coach and was always there for advice and inspiration. Father Kevin Hays was also a great mentor and another big brother.

As a lawyer, one of my former law partners, Howard Teegen, had a major influence in my career. He is a throwback to the days when lawyers handled almost any type of matter. He excelled in civil litigation, appeals, municipal, commercial law and bankruptcy. That three judges (David Schwartz in DuPage County and Chris Morozin and I in Lake County) came from that small general practice in Western Lake County is due, to a great degree, to Howard's mentorship.

When you reflect on your career, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am very proud of becoming a judge and being the first Hispanic judge in Lake County and first Hispanic chief judge in Illinois state court history. When I first became a judge, I never imagined that I would someday have the honor and privilege of serving on the Illinois Judicial Conference and chairing the Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice and working with so many outstanding justices, judges, lawyers and folks at the AOIC to improve our courts and better serve the public. It is a tremendous honor to be able to help people resolve their disputes and to uphold the rule of law in our community.

Why is diversity important on the bench?

I truly believe that a judiciary, which is reflective of the community, builds trust and confidence in our courts. I'll never forget the day when I had been a judge for about a month serving in traffic court when a white gentleman said it was important to have someone like me on the bench. African American, Hispanic and Asian folks made similar comments to me thereafter.

What is one of your favorite traditions or customs of your culture? (Ex. Food, Special Event, etc.)

Enjoying pasteles during the holidays and arroz con gandules (Puerto Rican-style yellow rice with pigeon peas) and tostones (fried plantains) whenever possible.

Why do you think it's important to recognize Hispanic heritage, not just this month, but every day?

This country is such a melting pot, and Hispanics constitute a large percentage of the population. It's important for our youth to know the history of Hispanics in this country and, hopefully, find inspiration from those who have come before them.

Is there anything else you'd like to add on this topic?

It is important that we respect and recognize our heritage and cultural differences and remember that what binds us together is that we are Americans and must work to ensure that all may achieve the American Dream.

See More News Posts