Michael Quinn (judge)

Michael Quinn is a former judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. He served in the Criminal Division, hearing felony cases. Quinn's judicial career was marked by controversy and scrutiny regarding his conduct, particularly related to racially insensitive remarks and disciplinary actions.

Quinn was initially appointed to the bench in 1995 and subsequently retained by voters. In 2014, he faced disciplinary proceedings before the Illinois Courts Commission due to comments he made while presiding over a case involving allegations of police misconduct. These comments were deemed to demonstrate racial bias and a lack of impartiality.

The Illinois Courts Commission suspended Quinn without pay for one month as a result of their findings. The suspension was considered a serious reprimand for a sitting judge.

Following the suspension, Quinn continued to serve on the bench until his retirement. His tenure remains a significant case study in judicial ethics and the responsibilities of judges to maintain impartiality and avoid the appearance of bias.