The Second Judicial Circuit is honored to recognize Franklin County Resident Circuit Judge Thomas J. Tedeschi in his retirement from the judiciary. Judge Tedeschi was elected by the voters of Franklin County to serve as their Resident Circuit Judge in 2008. He was retained circuit-wide for the position in 2014 and then again in 2020.

Judge Tedeschi received his Juris Doctorate Degree from Southern Illinois University School of Law. Prior to coming to the bench, he was employed as a Probation Officer, Franklin County State’s Attorney Investigator, Police Officer, and Deputy Sheriff in Franklin County. Judge Tedeschi also served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Franklin County, a position he held when he was elected Franklin County Resident Circuit Judge. Judge Tedeschi was elected Chief Judge of the Second Circuit and served in that capacity for eight years from 2014-2021.

Second Circuit Chief Judge Melissa Morgan commented on Judge Tedeschi’s retirement stating, “Judge Tedeschi has served the Second Circuit as Franklin County Resident Circuit Judge for 16 years, but his dedication to public service extends far beyond that. From his early work with our justice partners in law enforcement and as an Assistant to the State’s Attorney, to then serving as Franklin County Resident Circuit Judge and the Chief Judge of the Second Circuit, his service is a reflection of his unwavering commitment to the administration of justice. As he embarks on this next chapter of his life, the Judges of the Second Judicial Circuit congratulate him on his retirement.”

The Second Judicial Circuit is comprised of the counties of Crawford, Edwards, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jefferson, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, and White.