About Judge Ieshia Gray

Elected in 2018, Judge Ieshia Gray is a proud advocate for justice and fairness in Cook County. Hailing from a working-class union family, Judge Gray understands the value of hard work and perseverance. She attended Augustana College on scholarship and graduated with a dual-degree in Economics and Public Administration.  As the first in her family to attend a four-year college and become an attorney, she is dedicated to ensuring justice is accessible to all.

A Commitment to Service

While attending Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri, Judge Gray taught in the St. Louis public school system, demonstrating her commitment to community service early. After moving to Chicago, she built a career representing economically disadvantaged clients and serving diverse communities in the Cook County Public Defender’s Office. Alongside her husband, a major crimes detective, they raise their children with strong values of community and service.

Judicial Experience

Judge Gray began her judicial career in the Cook County Fourth Municipal District in Maywood, Illinois. There, she presided over a variety of civil cases, including personal injury, contract, tort, evictions, small claims, and administrative reviews. Notably, she oversaw the largest pretrial personal injury settlement in Illinois history, highlighting her expertise and commitment to justice.

Community Engagement

Judge Gray is deeply involved in community outreach. She currently presides over the Restorative Justice Community Court in the South Suburbs of Chicago.  She also participates in the 'Robes in the Classroom' program, speaking to school children about the justice system, and engages in panels on domestic violence awareness, the role of women in the judiciary, and the meaning of justice today.

Educator and Leader

As an instructor at the Illinois Judicial College, Judge Gray developed and teaches a course on collaborative case management. She is also a respected member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, and the Illinois Judicial Council. Additionally, she contributes articles to God’s Phenomenal Woman magazine and serves her church as an elder.

A Legacy of Justice

Judge Gray is committed to ensuring that everyone in her courtroom is treated with respect and dignity. Her dedication to public service is unwavering. She believes in leaving a lasting legacy of justice and often says, “In this life, let me be a conduit of justice so that it flows like a mighty stream.”

“Justice is about people.”

A copy of our report is (or will be filed) with the State Board of Elections and is available for review on the Board's official website or for purchase from the Board.