James S. Murphy-Aguilú Cook County Circuit Court

Judge James Murphy-Aguilú was unanimously appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court and sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Joy Cunningham. Judge Murphy-Aguilú was well regarded for the diversity of his legal practice. Judge Murphy-Aguilú spent most of his legal career litigating criminal and civil rights cases in both state and federal court. Judge Murphy-Aguilú transitioned into government oversight first reviewing incidents of police misconduct including use of force, officer involved shootings and in custody deaths with the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Judge Murphy-Aguilú served as a Deputy Chief when he was asked to lead a team of investigators created to investigate civilian and police encounters in the days following the murder of George Floyd.

Judge Murphy-Aguilú took a position as the Inspector General for the Clerk of the Circuit Court in January of 2021 where he transformed the office through accreditation from the National Association of Inspectors General. Prior to his appointment, Judge Murphy-Aguilú served as the Chief of Staff for the Clerk of the Circuit Court where he worked hand in hand with stakeholders like the office of the Cook County Board president, Cook County State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Sheriff and Chief Judges office along with the legal aid community to improve court services.

Judge Murphy-Aguilú lives in Chicago with his wife Melissa and two kids. Judge Murphy-Aguilú is a lifelong learner who is passionate about working with and uplifting youth. Judge Murphy-Aguilú is currently coaching mite and squirt hockey teams at Chicago Park district McFetridge Ice Arena. Judge Murphy-Aguilú serves on the auxiliary board for the Puerto Rican Ice Hockey Association (PRIHA), the governing body for Olympic Ice Hockey in Puerto Rico. In addition to his volunteer work in hockey, Judge Murphy-Aguilú also serves on the Illinois State Bar Association’s committee on Racial and Ethnic Diversity and the Law.

Judge Murphy-Aguilú was recommended and qualified by every bar association. The Chicago Bar Association found Judge Murphy-Aguilú was “well-regarded for his legal experience, diligence and calm demeanor.”