On March 24, 2015, the Association gathered at the Union League Club in Chicago to honor the Justices of the Illinois Appellate Court, First District. The event, which allowed ALA members and guests to sit at a table with a Justice, also included a tribute to Justice Calvin Campbell, who served on the Appellate Court for 30 years.
ALA President Steven F. Pflaum opened the program by welcoming the Justices and the ALA members and guests. Thereafter, President Pflaum introduced Justice Shelvin Louise Marie Hall, who gave moving remarks on the passing of retired Justice Calvin Campbell. Justice Hall noted that Justice Campbell was elected to the First District in 1978, the fourth African American jurist to be elected to that court. Justice Hall recounted that Justice Campbell's "life was a lesson." He had a "genuinely courteous exterior," but would also exhibit a sharp elbow when necessary to defend his position. Justice Campbell was typically the first justice to welcome new members to the court, and he would often go out of his way to take a new justice to lunch. A veteran of World War II and an avid golfer, Justice Campbell was a passionate jurist who "left a mark of excellence."
Following Justice Hall's comments, President Pflaum encouraged attendees to continue their conversations with the Justices. To help facilitate the conversation, the Association provided a list of suggested questions related to appellate practice and procedure. The questions covered a range of topics, including how to approach seeking a certified question for interlocutory review and tips for oral arguments.
The Association thanks the Justices of the Illinois Appellate Court, First District for another enjoyable roundtable luncheon.
