Illinois Supreme Court Justice Thomas L. Kilbride has announced an application process for appointment to an at large circuit judge vacancy in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit.

The vacancy will be created by Circuit Judge Daniel J. Rozak's retirement, effective at noon on January 16, 2017. The term of office is until December 3, 2018, when the position will be filled by the November 2018 election.

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

Notice of the vacancy has been posted at the Will County Courthouse. 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 Twelfth 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 January 18, 2017.

The successful applicant must be a resident of Will County. The applicant must also be admitted to practice law in Illinois 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.