The Illinois Supreme Court has announced the creation of the Supreme Court Executive Committee on the Practice of Law (Executive Committee). This new committee is charged with making recommendations on issues impacting the practice of law and unmet legal needs.

“There are many things affecting the practice of law for this committee to evaluate. One key area is the gap between those who can afford legal services and those who cannot continues to grow,” Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis said. “This is unacceptable and we must explore all options to close that gap. The Court looks forward to reviewing the committee’s recommendations.”

The Executive Committee will consist of 13 members appointed by the Supreme Court. Attorney Tim Eaton, a partner in the Taft Law Firm, will serve as Chair. Mr. Eaton has a distinguished career in commercial and appellate litigation and has served as President of the Appellate Lawyers Association, Chicago Bar Association, and the Illinois State Bar Association. Retired attorney Timothy L. Bertschy, Chair of the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission, will serve as Vice Chair. He is the former Managing Partner of Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen, P.C., is a past President of the Illinois State Bar Association and served in the American Bar Association House of Delegates for over 15 years.

“I am grateful to the Court for the opportunity to work with such talented lawyers in a multidisciplinary approach to issues relating to the practice of law and unmet legal needs,” Eaton said.

The Committee’s recommendations are not limited to accepting or rejecting the specific proposals or issues referred to it and may include sharing notice of proposed recommendations with bar associations and providing an opportunity to submit feedback.

Additional members of the Committee include: Linda R. Crane, Chicago; John K. Kim, Bloomington; Allison L. Wood, Chicago, Joseph Torres, Chicago; Patrick B. Mathis, Belleville; Wesley A. Gozia, Carlyle; Larry R. Rogers, Jr., Chicago; Melodi D. Green, Peoria; Patricia C. Bobb, Chicago; Jennifer J. Howe, Lake Forest; David M. Baron, Kankakee.

Terms will run for three years with a term limit of three full consecutive terms, consistent with the Supreme Court Committee Guidelines. Initial terms will be staggered to ensure continuity.

The Executive Committee will meet quarterly or as needed, and at least one meeting per year will be held outside of Chicago. A two-thirds majority vote is required for adoption of recommendations.