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1. Who are Judges of Election?

Judges of Election are responsible for the administration of election procedures in the polling place on Election Day.  They are in the position of ensuring that the election process is administered fairly and in accordance with the Illinois Election Code.

2. How are the judges selected?

Election Judges are chosen by the Precinct Committeemen and by the Party Chairperson of your political party. In each precinct, the party which cast the highest average number of votes at the most recent three gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by three judges; the party which casts the second highest number of votes at the most recent gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by two judges

3. What are the qualifications necessary to be an Election Judge?

• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Be a registered voter in LaSalle County.
• Be of good repute and character.
• Be able to speak, read and write the English language.
• Be of good understanding and capable of performing duties.
• Not be a candidate for any office in the election, and not be a  Precinct Committeeperson.
• Each Election Judge is required to declare their party preference so they can be assigned accordingly.

4. How are Election Judges trained?

Before each election, Judge Training Schools are held. This covers the duties and responsibilities of Election Judges. An examination that tests reading skills, ability to work with poll lists, ability to add, and knowledge of election laws governing the operation of polling places is given every two years. Judges who have attended the class and completed the test will receive $160 for their duties on Election Day. Election Judge pay is reduced for not attending the Training Class or completing the test.

5. What are some of the duties of the Judges of Election?

• To open and close the polls;
• To be responsible for all election materials;
• To ensure that only qualified voters are permitted to vote;
• To offer instructions in the operation of voting equipment to voters;
• To give assistance to illiterate and physically disabled voters, when requested by voters;
• To maintain order in the polling place throughout the day;
• To tally the vote after the polls are closed; and
• To certify the election results for that precinct to the election authority,  (County Clerk).

6. How may I become an Election Judge?

Contact the County Clerk's Office by phone; LaSalle County Clerk at 815-434-8201 or by email, and express your interest in serving as a Judge of Election; or print out, complete, and mail the Judge of Election Application (PDF).

LaSalle County Clerk
707 Etna Road
Ottawa, IL  61350