A longtime Lake County Judge and former high-level prosecutor from the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office has officially retired.
Lake County Associate Judge George D. Strickland retired from the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Lake County Friday after over 19 years of dedicated service to the people of Lake County, officials said.
“Saying goodbye to such a good friend is not easy; it brings both sadness and pride due to his distinguished career,” said Lake County Circuit Court Judge Victoria A. Rossetti. “His career is marked by a dedication to the law, hard work, dignity, respect, humility, humor, and friendship towards all of us at the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit. George understood the significance of his black robe and title, and he never misused them.”
Strickland earned an undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University and his Juris Doctor in 1983 from John Marshall Law School, officials said.
He was admitted to practice in Illinois in 1983 and joined the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office in 1984.
He served as an Assistant State’s Attorney for approximately 22 years, during which he climbed the ranks until being named Chief of the Criminal Division.
Strickland was appointed to the position of Associate Judge in 2006.
“George approached the bench with humility and respect for the enormous responsibility the role carried,” said Lake County Chief Judge Daniel B. Shanes. “He understood that every case represented real people and real consequences; he listened, really listened. And while George could be tough when the law required it, he also had a deep appreciation for the people and the stories behind their cases.”
While serving as a judge, Strickland handled a wide array of cases, including presiding over traffic, family, misdemeanor criminal, domestic violence, bond court, and felony cases.
He was also an active member of multiple Court Committees, contributing to initiatives in technology, community outreach, judicial education, and security, officials said.
“To all my fellow judges, the young lawyers, and our justice partners, I want you to remember the significance of what you do each day, even when it may seem trivial,” Strickland said. “You are touching people’s lives, and that is a great honor. Each of you is making a difference in our community. I feel incredibly blessed to have had this opportunity; thank you.”