The Illinois Supreme Court has named ISBA Past President Terrence J. Lavin to fill an interim vacancy on the 1st District Appellate Court, effective Feb. 1, 2010. The vacancy will be created by the retirement of Justice John P. Tully on Dec. 31. "I'm obviously delighted," Lavin said. "It's something I've always wanted and never thought would present itself." Lavin earned a degree in journalism in 1977 from the University of Illinois and his law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1983. He clerked at Corboy & Demetrio during law school and started his own practice in 1992 - which he has with some regret begun to wind down. "I just had a meeting with a client and had to tell her she'll need to find another lawyer," he said. "I will miss not being there to fight for her and for the others I represent." Lavin's appointment runs through Dec. 3, 2012. "I look forward to having the opportunity to learn more about the law," Lavin said. "We practice in such specialized areas and I have practiced in such a specialized area. This will keep the brain exercised. I look forward to putting on the robe and going to the other side of the bench."