Chicago, IL – The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit is inviting public and attorney comments on whether United States Bankruptcy Judge Timothy A. Barnes should be reappointed to a new 14-year term, with his current term set to expire May 15, 2026.
According to a Nov. 3, 2025 press release, written comments will be accepted through Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, and will be kept confidential. Submissions should be directed to David E. Hollar, Circuit Executive, Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit, 219 S. Dearborn St., Room 2780, Chicago, IL 60604, or by email to ca07_circuit_executive@ca7.uscourts.gov.
Judge Barnes serves in the Northern District of Illinois (Cook County/Chicago metro). Bankruptcy judges are judicial officers of the U.S. District Courts, exercising the courts’ authority in bankruptcy proceedings under Title 28, with the position governed by 28 U.S.C. § 151. The Seventh Circuit’s notice underscores routine reappointment review, which includes a period for stakeholder feedback before a final decision.
The Seventh Circuit covers Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, but the comment request specifically concerns Judge Barnes’ service in the Northern District of Illinois. Members of the public and the bar may weigh in on professional competence, integrity, and judicial temperament. The court did not announce a hearing date; comments are accepted in writing only.
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