Justice Amy Sholar received her undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, her law degree from St. Louis University School of Law, and was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2002. Prior to being appointed as a Circuit Judge in Madison County in 2021 (and elected to the position in 2022), Justice Sholar worked for the Madison County State’s Attorney office, for the City of Alton, and in private practice. In 2024, Justice Sholar was assigned to the Fifth District Appellate Court. Justice Sholar was a member of the Board of Trustees SIU System, and volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of Alton, Clayton and Virginia Williams Foundation, and P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization). The committee investigated Justice Sholar’s credentials in litigation experience, professional experience, health and age, legal knowledge and ability, integrity, sensitivity to diversity and bias, judicial temperament, diligence, punctuality, impartiality, professional conduct, and character. Using the criteria and process above, the ISBA finds that Justice Amy Sholar is highly recommended for the position of Fifth District Appellate Court Justice. Attorneys described Justice Sholar as fair, well-prepared, and thoughtful. They further noted her even temperament and professionalism.