Judge Robert D. Kuzas is an experienced and well-respected judge who was elected to the Circuit Court of Cook County in November 2014. He has served with distinction since December 1, 2014. Judge Kuzas has previously been found qualified and recommended to serve as a judge by all evaluating bar associations. He currently presides over felony preliminary hearings at Branch 44.
Legal Career
Before joining the bench and beginning in 1989, Judge Kuzas practiced law in the areas of criminal defense, labor, employment, and personal injury.
Education
Judge Kuzas earned his bachelor’s degree from Chicago State University, June 1984, and his law degree from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law (formerly John Marshall Law School), January 1988.
Judicial Conference and Committee Service
In December 2014, the Illinois Supreme Court appointed Judge Kuzas to the Judicial Conference of Illinois for a term beginning in January 2015 and ending in December 2017. He was reappointed for an additional term beginning in January 2018 and expiring in December 2018. The conference sunset in October 2018.
In December 2014, the Illinois Supreme Court also appointed Judge Kuzas to its Criminal Justice Committee. He was subsequently reappointed in December 2015, December 2016, and December 2017, with his final term beginning in January 2018 and expiring in December 2018.
Effective January 2017, the Illinois Supreme Court appointed Judge Kuzas to the Executive Committee of the Judicial Conference of Illinois for a term expiring in December 2019.
Programs, Recognition, and Community Service
• Fitness Diversion Program: In December 2018, while serving as Presiding Judge of misdemeanor criminal cases at Branch 43, Judge Kuzas participated in the voluntary Fitness Diversion Program, a pilot initiative program designed to identify individuals demonstrating mental health needs and connecting them with treatment. Retired Presiding Judge Sharon Sullivan supervised the program.
• COVID-19 recognition: In May 2020, Judge Kuzas received a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his diligence and dedication to the Circuit Court of Cook County during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Community service: Robert Kuzas served on the Board of Directors for the Jesse White Tumblers.
Memberships
The Alliance of Illinois Judges and the Illinois Judges Association.