Judge since: 2006

Murphy began his legal career in private practice, specializing in personal injury, real estate, and workers’ compensation law. He then served four terms as alderman in Chicago’s 18th Ward, from 1991 to 2006. Murphy currently serves as the supervising judge of Bridgeview’s civil case courtrooms.

Bar Association ratings

This year: The CCL and CBA rated him qualified, and the ISBA recommended him for retention.

Past: The CCL, CBA, ISBA all rated Murphy “qualified” in 2012.

Notable: In 2001, as alderman, Murphy attempted to become the first white member of the City Council’s Black Caucus, citing his majority-Black constituency. Daley defended his bid, saying “everybody should be able to represent anyone and speak on their behalf.” Murphy was unsuccessful, stating that “The only reason I was given [for the lack of caucus support] was that I’m not an African-American elected official.”