Beyond the Bench

7/30/2024

Beyond the Bench is a monthly feature to get to know more about judges and justices in the Illinois Courts, beyond their legal duties.

Name: Sharmila Manak

Title: Circuit Judge

Circuit or Judicial District: Nineteenth Circuit

Do you play Wordle, the New York Times game? What's your strategy?

Yes, I started playing a few months ago. My strategy is if I am stuck I ask my husband for help.

What is your favorite trip or vacation you've been on?

Although, it was too short, Lisbon. Everything about it was beautiful: the sights, the people, the food.

What is your favorite board game? Would your friends and family call you competitive?

I don't have a favorite board game, but I do love UNO and Speed. Competitive at both of those games. Does anyone even play Speed anymore? It challenges your ability to count forwards and backwards and requires hand/eye coordination.

What is your biggest fear?

Doing the Edge Walk at the CN Tower in Toronto. The thought of walking 116 stories above Toronto with only a harness makes my knees weak. No thank you!!!

If you could change one thing about the legal profession, what would it be?

That we are kinder to each other and ourselves. Recognizing when we are having a bad day and when others may be having one. Responding with grace and space. This can be hard to do but it can make a big difference in how things play out.

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