Madison County Circuit Court

07/01/2026

Madison County Circuit Court Judges distributed pocket-sized copies of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution to members of the public today at the Madison County Courthouse and the Criminal Justice Center. Chief Judge Chris Threlkeld, Circuit Judge Patrick King, Associate Judge Emily Nielsen, and Associate Judge John Hackett presented copies to litigants, lawyers, and others throughout the day at both buildings in honor of the Fourth of July holiday. Thanks to the Illinois Judges Association Media Committee for providing the copies and selecting Madison County to assist with distribution.

06/30/2026

Congratulations to Third Judicial Circuit Trial Court Administrator Ryan Anderson, Circuit Clerk Patrick McRae, and Deputy Circuit Clerk Missy Bickmore for their hard work in earning certification by the Supreme Court of Illinois as Certified Court Managers. This training consists of six 16.25-hour courses and takes over a year to complete. Course topics included Purposes and Responsibilities of Courts, Accountability and Court Performance, Caseflow and Workflow Management, Budget and Fiscal Management, Project Management for the Courts, & Workforce Management. Great job!

https://www.riverbender.com/news/details/madison-county-trio-completes-certified-court-manager-training-94709.cfm?

Madison County court leaders earn Certified Court Manager credentials through Illinois Judicial College and NCSC training, strengthening courthouse leadership in Edwards?

06/19/2026

The Madison County Circuit Court will be closed tomorrow (June 19) in honor of Juneteenth Independence Day.

05/26/2026

The Madison County Child Advocacy Center would like to thank Honorable Judge Motil for taking the time to visit with us and learn more about the important work we do every day to support children and families in our community.

Honorable Judge Motil’s passion for understanding the child welfare system and his commitment to ensuring every child is heard, supported, and connected throughout their time in his courtroom is truly inspiring.

We are grateful for his dedication and partnership in being a strong voice for children. 💙

05/22/2026

Yesterday, the Madison County Bar Association hosted the annual Bar Memorial Service at the Madison County Courthouse, honoring the three local attorneys who passed away in 2025, including Appellate Court Justice Thomas Welch, Robert Ryan, and Mark Levy. Judge Patrick King and Judge Andrew Carruthers organized this year’s event. A full courtroom of judges, lawyers, families and friends were present to remember and honor these fine attorneys. Former IL State Bar Association President Dennis Orsey served as the master of ceremonies. Thanks to President Leigh Perica and the Madison County Bar Association for holding another great ceremony.

05/07/2026

On May 2, Madison County Circuit Judge Sarah Smith, also Colonel Smith serving as the Illinois Army National Guard Chief of Staff, was awarded the Legion of Merit in recognition for her exceptionally meritorious service and transformative leadership as the State Judge Advocate. The Legion of Merit is one of the United States military’s most prestigious decorations, ranking high in the order of precedence and just below the Silver Star. Congrats to Judge Smith on receiving this high honor!

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/printable/564451

04/03/2026