Process of Choosing Bennett Successor Already Beginning

Even as funeral services are being concluded for Judge Allen Bennett, the process of choosing his successor has begun.

The Windsor resident died Wednesday. His funeral will be held Saturday.

Chief 4th Circuit Judge Kimberly Koester said Friday she has been in touch with Illinois Supreme Court Justice Lloyd Karmeier about the selection process. Judge Koester said Judge Bennett's seat is up for retention in 2018. Justice Karmeier will certify the office is vacant on Tuesday. A special filing period will be put in place for December 18-26 for those who wish to file as a candidate for Judge Bennett's seat on the bench.

Since the position is for Resident Circuit Judge for Shelby County, those who file will need to be Shelby County residents.

Whoever files will be part of the regular primary election in March and the general election in November.

In the meantime, Judge Koester said she would handle administrative issues, such as working with the Shelby County Board, with the assistance of Associate Circuit Judge Allan Lolie, who is a Shelby County resident.