Jeanne Peterson appointed county attorney

The Cook County Board of Commissioners named Jeanne Peterson as the next county attorney on Nov. 26. Peterson currently serves as assistant county attorney, and will assume her new role when County Attorney Molly Hicken leaves the county in January.

County attorney is an elected role in Cook County, and Peterson was appointed to finish the last two years of Hicken’s term. At the end of the term Peterson will have the option to run for election for the position. During the Nov. 26 meeting, Peterson stated that it was her intention to seek election at that time.

Peterson has been a part of the county attorney’s office for some time. She worked as assistant county attorney from 2013 to 2017, then returned to the role in 2021. Before the board appointed her on Nov. 26, Peterson addressed the board. She talked about what made her qualified, as well as her attitude going into the role. She said, “I have the experience to be an effective and proficient public servant in this position, yet I am also humble enough to be excited to grow into this role.”

After her appointment Peterson also shared a statement with WTIP. The statement read:

Since joining the Cook County Attorney’s Office, Peterson has prosecuted petty, misdemeanor and felony offenses. She has partnered with county or other agencies in adult care or child protection matters. She has also on occasion worked with other jurisdictions toward global case resolution. Peterson has at times been called on to advise the Board or departments on a temporary basis at the request of the County Attorney.

Peterson states she finds meaning in her work and is excited to grow into this role. Her time away from the office, she says, solidified her commitment to the office of County Attorney, and the unique opportunity it offers to promote public safety while increasing individual health and accountability. A former graduate of Cook County High School, she returned to the area in 2009 and is grateful to raise her two active children in this community.

Peterson’s complete statement to the board can be heard below.

Kirsten Wisniewski November 28, 2024