Lake County Chief Judge Daniel B. Shanes has announced that the circuit judges have selected Eric J. Kalata as Lake County’s newest associate judge.

This opening is the result of the retirement of Associate Judge George D. Strickland, effective on Oct. 31. Kalata was selected from a group of 18 outstanding individuals who applied for the vacancy.

Kalata most recently served as chief of the training division of the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, where he was responsible for developing and mentoring prosecutors. He joined the office in 1997 and has handled a broad range of prosecutions, earning a reputation for fairness, professionalism and integrity. An experienced trial attorney, he has tried hundreds of cases to verdict.

“Eric Kalata has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice, Chief Judge Shanes said in a news release. “His extensive experience forms a cornerstone of his respected career in public service. His thoughtful approach to complex issues and commitment to public service make him an outstanding addition to our judiciary.”

Kalata received his Bachelor of Arts from Lake Forest College in 1992. He earned his Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1996 and was admitted to practice law in Illinois that year. Kalata is a member of the Jefferson Inn-American Inns of Court and the Lake County Bar Association.

“I am honored by this opportunity to continue serving the people of Lake County in a new capacity,” Kalata said in the release. “I remain deeply committed to upholding the law and promoting fairness and integrity in every proceeding.”

Chief Judge Shanes will administer the formal oath of office to Kalata in November, followed by an investiture ceremony at a later date.

Lake County sits in the 19th Judicial Circuit and is the third-largest circuit court in Illinois. The court is composed of 41 judges: 16 circuit judges and 25 associate judges.