Remembering Justice Freeman
Honoring Justice Charles E. Freeman
On June 14, 2018, Justice Charles E. Freeman, the first African-American to serve on the Supreme Court of Illinois, retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service. The Illinois Judicial Council proudly honors Justice Freeman as a distinguished member and began its 2018–2019 fiscal year with this Special Tribute in recognition of his dedication, public service, and generosity.
Early Life and Education
Justice Freeman was born in Richmond, Virginia. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Virginia Union University in 1954 and his Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School in Chicago in 1962. Early in his career, he served as an Illinois Assistant Attorney General, a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, and as attorney for the Illinois State Board of Elections.
Judicial and Public Service Career
In 1965, Illinois Governor Otto Kerner, Jr. appointed Justice Freeman as an arbitrator at the Illinois Industrial Commission, where he issued over 2,000 work-related injury decisions. In 1973, he was appointed to the Illinois Commerce Commission to oversee utility companies.
Elected as a Circuit Court Judge in 1976, he later swore in Harold L. Washington as Chicago’s first African-American mayor. In 1986, he became an Illinois Appellate Court Justice and was elected to the Supreme Court of Illinois in 1990, serving as Chief Justice from 1997 to 2000.
Judicial Contributions and Legacy
Justice Freeman authored 386 majority opinions, 96 special concurrences, and 106 dissents, earning praise for upholding defendants’ rights and advocating prosecutorial reforms. Notable decisions include Lee v. Chicago Transit Authority (1992) and People v. Rolando Cruz (1994). His rulings reflect a deep commitment to fairness, justice, and equal access to the courts.
Advancing Judicial Administration
As Chief Justice, Freeman improved court efficiency, oversaw the Family Violence Prevention program, established a judicial webpage, and reorganized appellate judge assignments. In 1996, he highlighted the court’s responsibilities in an article for the Chicago Defender, contributing to public understanding of Illinois’ legal system.
Championing Diversity and Opportunity
Justice Freeman broke barriers as the first African-American Supreme Court Justice in Illinois, inspiring generations of attorneys of color. He nominated over 36 African-American attorneys for judicial appointments, supported clerkship opportunities, and appointed numerous members of the African-American legal community to administrative commissions, committees, and boards. His efforts significantly expanded diversity and inclusion within the Illinois judiciary.
Enduring Impact
Justice Freeman’s legacy encompasses exceptional legal decisions, administrative leadership, mentorship, and a lifelong commitment to fairness, justice, and the advancement of African-American legal professionals. His influence continues to inspire and guide future generations of Illinois lawyers and judges.
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