As he humbly recounts his heroic accomplishments of cleaning up the traffic court, instituting night court for criminal drug cases in order to best use limited resources in the fairest manner, and presiding over the historical impeachment trial of former Governor Rod Blagojevich, Justice Fitzgerald repeatedly reminds lawyers that they are guardians or champions of the legal process.
Due to illness, Justice Fitzgerald ended his term as Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court early, on October 25, 2010. In our interactions he was candid about his physical condition; nonetheless, during the interview his eyes conveyed the strength of mind and character that permeated his professional career. I was reminded of the quote by Samual Richardson, “Where words are restrained, the eyes talk a great deal.” As you watch the video, see if you agree. Chief Justice Thomas R. Fitzgerald reflects on the themes of his career and shares his hard-earned wisdom and advice.