Attorney Evans seeks judgeship in 20th Judicial Circuit
O’FALLON, Ill. — Paul J. Evans has announced his candidacy to run for circuit judge in the 20th Judicial Circuit, which is comprised of St. Clair, Monroe, Washington, Perry and Randolph counties.
“I am excited to announce that I am running for Judge in the 20th Circuit to be an independent voice focused solely on the cases, ruling only on the law and facts,” said Evans, who has been an attorney for the past 29 years and is owner of the Evans Law Firm, P.C. located in O’Fallon, Ill.
Evans is running for the seat being vacated by Vincent J. Lopinot. He cited the need for change from the status quo in the courthouse and the public’s frustration and concern about the headlines that have been coming out of the Belleville courthouse for several years.
“It’s time to put the people first in our courthouse,” said Evans. “When I am elected judge, I will treat every case fairly and equally. People will not have to be concerned about whether they have the right connection when appearing in court.”
Evans will take his many years of experience representing the individual citizen in a wide variety of legal matters across all spectrums with him to the bench. Evans previously served as an Illinois state representative in the 102 District where he worked to represent citizens from all backgrounds.
He is a lifelong resident of the region. Paul grew up a livestock farm in Randolph County, attending grade schools in both Red Bud and Steeleville, and then graduated from Gibault Catholic High School in Waterloo. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Economics at the age of 20 from SIU Carbondale and spent several years working for FS Farm Cooperatives. He returned to law school at SIU. After graduating law school in 1988, he settled in St. Clair County in 1990, and has had his own law firm in O’Fallon, Ill., since 1998.
“Over the years, I have private citizens and small and large businesses to help them navigate through our complex legal system as a lawyer and an arbitrator,” said Evans. “As judge, I will bring my experience to the bench to ensure all parties receive fair and honest treatment.”
Evans has been active in his community, including helping to establish nonprofits in addition to representing them. Much of his concerns have focused on the needs of children and of the disabled and elderly.
He currently serves as the president of the O’Fallon Shiloh Chamber of Commerce. He and Sandy have been married for over 30 years, and have three adult children.
“I look forward to meeting the people of the 20th Judicial circuit in the upcoming campaign,” said Evans.
