Legal Luminary: Tracie Porter’s Judicial Role
Assuming office on November 12, 2021, Judge Tracie Porter has been a stalwart guardian of justice in the Traffic Division. Specializing in minor traffic violations and Class A Misdemeanor matters, she navigates the complexities of legal proceedings with finesse and commitment.
Community Champion: Tracie Porter Beyond the Bench
Beyond her judicial duties, Tracie Porter is a community advocate, dedicating her time and resources to fostering unity among people from diverse backgrounds. Her involvement in legal associations such as the Illinois Judges Association (IJA), the Illinois Judicial Council (IJC), and the International Association of Women Judges underscores her commitment to the legal community.
Legal Decision Making: Trump’s Ballot Removal
In a recent and high-profile legal decision, Judge Tracie Porter ordered the removal of Donald Trump’s name from the Republican primary ballot for March 19th. This ruling, prompted by objections from Illinois voters, alleges that Trump’s actions during the January 6 Capitol riot violate the 14th Amendment.
However, the ruling is not final as Judge Porter has put it on hold until Friday, allowing time for an appeal process. Trump’s campaign has expressed its intention to appeal, asserting that the decision is unconstitutional.
Tracie Porter’s Journey: From Englewood to Judicial Pinnacle
Born in Illinois in 1968, Tracie Porter’s journey to becoming a respected judge began in the Englewood neighborhood on Chicago’s south side. Her academic excellence at Whitney M. Young High School set the stage for a remarkable trajectory.
Continuing her education at Cornell College, Porter earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Business. In 1991, she embarked on her legal journey at Drake University Law School, obtaining her Juris Doctorate Degree in 1994.
A Diverse Legal Career: From Lawyer to Judge
Before her appointment as a judge, Tracie Porter ran her own law firm, handling a spectrum of legal matters from business contracts to real estate. Her licenses to practice law in both Illinois and New York showcased her wide legal expertise.
As a Tenured Professor of Law, Judge Porter’s influence extends beyond the courtroom. She has addressed international conferences and focused on critical topics such as the 2007 mortgage crisis, the school-to-prison pipeline, voter rights, and mortgage short sales.
Contributions Beyond Borders: International Engagements
Judge Porter’s contributions extend internationally, with her speaking engagements at conferences like the Magna Carta, the 800th Year conference in London, England. Her influential law review articles, notably “The Quagmire of Mortgage Short Sale Transactions Under Current Homeownership Tax Policy in a Time of Crisis,” published in the Akron Law Review, have not only showcased her scholarly prowess but have also impacted legal decisions.
In conclusion, Judge Tracie Porter embodies a harmonious blend of legal acumen, community engagement, and a commitment to justice. As her judicial career continues to unfold, her impact on both the legal profession and the community remains indelible.
