All Events
February 2026 Back to Top
JUDGES JOKE
Where the only thing overruled… is silence.
Lawyers may argue. Jurors may deliberate.
But for one night, judges deliver the punchlines.
Join us for Judges Joke, an evening of stand-up comedy, musical surprises, and unexpected legal levity—all in support of the Illinois Judges Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing benevolent and educational initiatives benefiting the judiciary and the Illinois Judges Association.
The Court is Now in Session
Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
Time:
• 5:30 p.m. — Doors Open
• 6:00 p.m. — Show Begins
Location:
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake Street
Chicago, IL 60607
Tickets: $100 Purchase tickets
(Includes admission, food, two drink tickets, and unlimited judicial side-eye)
RSVP by: February 17, 2026 RSVP
ON THE DOCKET: LAUGHTER
IJF’s continuing foray into stand-up comedy features judges trading robes for punchlines. Expect sharp wit, surprising talents, and jokes that definitely won’t be sustained on appeal.
No objections. No motions. Just laughter—for a great cause.
Calling All Judges: Take the Stand (Up)
Sitting and retired judges with an active funny bone are hereby summoned to apply to perform and compete for bragging rights at our annual Judges Joke Night.
The Rules (Few and Flexible):
Performance length: 5 minutes
• Format: Your choice—stand-up, monologue, skit, musical performance, or other creative argument
• Goal: Beat the other judges and win eternal bragging rights
Robes optional. Timing encouraged.
Laughter is the best remedy—and every laugh supports a great cause.
Interested in performing?
Contact Michael Bender, mbender@caesarbender.law.com
Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Interested in Sponsoring?
Sponsors receive recognition in all event marketing, on-site acknowledgment, and two tickets to Judges Joke.
Sponsorship details available here
