Endorsements
Hear what others have to say about Judge Pratt
“Whenever Chris Pratt appeared in my courtroom, whether as a private attorney or public defender, he was prepared, effective, and persuasive. He demonstrated clear legal ability and fought for his clients while treating everyone with respect. These are necessary experience and qualifications to serve as a judge. Ultimately, however, the key quality that is essential for success on the bench is having the proper temperament. This is a quality which cannot be taught or learned and no judge is successful without it. Judge Pratt possesses the appropriate judicial temperament that will ensure his success and for that reason, I am happy to endorse him as Eighth Circuit Judge.”
— Hon. Diane Lagoski, Illinois Eighth Circuit Chief Judge (Retired.)
“During my time on the bench, I found Chris Pratt to be a determined and effective litigator with an excellent knowledge and understanding of both the law and court procedures. His varied experience in both civil law as a private attorney and criminal law as a public defender make him uniquely qualified for his position as circuit judge.”
— Hon. Scott Butler, Illinois Eighth Circuit Judge (Retired.)
“I heartily endorse and support Judge Christopher Pratt for election to a full term as Circuit Judge of the 8th Judicial Circuit--the same position that he holds right now and to which he was entrusted in June, 2024 by the Supreme Court of Illinois as recommended by the Republican Justice that serves our circuit. Judge Pratt is a man of faith, family and community and is a long time servant to our communities here in the 8th Circuit. His knowledge and actual experience in the law covers all aspects of the legal system and that record of accomplishment serves him well as a Judge. I have personally prosecuted criminal cases before Judge Pratt and his knowledge, fairness and devotion to duty are second to none. I am voting for Judge Christopher Pratt. He serves us well.”
— Walker R. Filbert, Pike County State's Attorney
“I have known Chris Pratt for decades. He appeared in front of me in a wide variety of cases when I was on the bench. He was always prepared, professional and ethical. He treated everyone, including opponents, with fairness. You cannot ask for anything more from a judge. With his deep roots in the community in roles such as lawyer, educator and community volunteer I have no doubt that he will serve the citizens of the Eighth Judicial Circuit well for years to come. I wholeheartedly urge the citizens of the Eighth Judicial Circuit to vote for Judge Pratt.”
— Hon. Mark Drummond, Illinois Eighth Circuit Judge and Presiding Judge of Adams County (Retired.)
“Judge Pratt demonstrated an excellent knowledge of the law as an attorney. Importantly, he connected with his clients and treated them and court personnel with respect. Those qualities are why the Illinois Supreme Court appointed him to the judiciary. We are fortunate to have Chris Pratt on the bench in our circuit.”
— Hon. Scott Walden, Illinois Eighth Circuit Judge and Adams County State’s Attorney (Retired.)
“Judge Pratt has dedicated his career to serving the citizens of Adams County AND the Eighth Judicial Circuit. He is a man who truly understands the unique needs, challenges and values of our community. His decisions reflect a deep awareness of the real world issues facing the people who come before his court—whether they are victims seeking protection, families in crisis, or individuals navigating the legal system without representation. He has consistently worked to ensure that the courtroom is a place every voice is heard, regardless of income, background, or status.”
— Drew Schnack, Attorney at Law
“Judge Chris Pratt is a person of intelligence, exemplary legal knowledge and integrity. His personal story has imbued him with a down-to-earth demeanor and common sense. He exhibits open-mindedness, curiosity, patience and humility; qualities which are essential to the exercise of sound judicial discretion and wisdom. I unequivocally endorse the Honorable Chris Pratt for Circuit Judge of the Eighth Judicial District”
— Hon. Thomas Ortbal, Illinois Eighth Circuit Judge (Retired.)