Illinois Supreme Court Justice Thomas L. Kilbride has announced an application process for appointment to an upcoming Circuit Court vacancy in the Ninth Judicial Circuit.

The vacancy will be created by Circuit Judge Steven R. Bordner's retirement, which takes effect August 20, 2015. Judge Bordner has been a judge since 1995 and has served in each of the six counties of the Ninth Circuit. He is currently assigned to the Fulton County Courthouse in Lewistown.

Under the Illinois Constitution, judicial vacancies are filled by Supreme Court appointment. Justice Kilbride will make a recommendation to the Court after applicants undergo an evaluation and screening process.

Notice of the vacancy has been posted at courthouses within the Ninth Judicial Circuit, which includes Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, Knox, McDonough and Warren counties. The application form and instructions may be obtained by visiting the Supreme Court’s website at www.illinoiscourts.gov and following the instructions on the “Latest News” scroller announcing the Ninth Judicial Circuit vacancy.

Applicants must submit one original and the requisite number of copies of the application and other documents as instructed in the application packet. To be considered, all documents must be received in Justice Kilbride’s office no later than 11:30 a.m. on Monday, August 8, 2015.

An applicant must be admitted to practice law in Illinois, live in the Ninth Judicial Circuit and be in good standing with the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission or any other respective disciplinary bodies. Other qualities an applicant must possess include: a demonstrated reputation for integrity and good character; a demonstrated commitment to equal justice under law; outstanding legal ability and competence; and the appropriate demeanor, character and temperament.

The person appointed to fill the vacancy will serve until December 5, 2016 or otherwise ordered by the Supreme Court.