Judge Joseph D. Panarese

Judge Joseph D. Panarese was appointed as a Judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County in 2006 and became an Associate Judge in 2007. In his present assignment, he hears both civil and criminal matters throughout Cook County and has presided over 200 + juries to verdict.

Judge Panarese began his legal career at Panarese & Panarese in Chicago. He then spent over 10 years as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, where he worked his way up to the Felony trial division. He returned to Panarese & Panarese until becoming a judge in 2006.

He is a regular speaker and volunteer with various legal, civil, and educational groups throughout the county. He is also a second-level dog trainer at PAWS Animal Shelter.

Judge Panarese was appointed to the Commission on Professionalism in 2026.