KANE COUNTY—The Illinois Supreme Court announced on April 12 that a new commission would be established to oversee ways in which state courts can better serve the needs of those in advancing years.
The Commission on Elder Law hopes to tackle the legal problems facing senior citizens not only by examining the role courts play in terms of guardianship cases but also in the Judicial Branch’s obligation to protect the legal rights of the most vulnerable populations.
Following the state supreme court’s announcement, on April 25, it was revealed that Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser had been appointed to serve on the Commission on Elder Law.
“Your reputation and expertise in issues associated with elder law [are] well respected and highly regarded by your peers and by the Supreme Court,” wrote Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Anne M. Burke in a letter to Mosser.
Chicago Attorney Kerry R. Peck has been selected to serve as the first Chair of the Commission on Elder Law. Peck is currently the managing partner of Peck Ritchey, LLC.
Additionally, Court Justice Robert L. Carter has been appointed to serve as the Supreme Court Liaison to the commission.
“The aging of the baby boom generation has made Elder Law one of the fastest-growing areas for state courts,” stated Burke. “We look forward to hearing from this commission on how to best serve the needs of our more senior court users.”
Nathan Jensen and Scott Block, two employees from the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts, have been selected to serve as staff for the commission.
In response to her appointment on the commission, Mosser said, “Protecting the most vulnerable individuals among us has always been a priority for me. It is important that our laws and practices remain up to date so our vulnerable citizens are not exploited. My thanks to the Illinois Supreme Court for this appointment, and to Attorney Kerry Peck in advocating for me to be amongst these dedicated individuals to help protect the elderly.”
The commission will further address a variety of legal issues confronted by seniors in Illinois and across the nation. It will include in its scope the collection of experiential information regarding attempts to defraud seniors in Illinois and making recommendations for Judicial Branch policies, procedures, and Supreme Court rules.
“Older adults are vulnerable, require protection, and are exposed to a unique set of circumstances,” said Peck. “This commission will evaluate the risks older adults face and propose solutions to the Supreme Court. I am honored to be appointed as Chair by the Supreme Court and thank the court for their support.”
Mosser’s term on the commission will expire on Dec. 31, 2024.
McHenry County isn’t left out from assisting on the new Commission on Elder Law, as 22nd Judicial McHenry County Circuit Court Judge Michael Chmiel has also been appointed as a member, with his term expiring in 2025.
