Harry D. Leinenweber (from the October, 1991 evaluation)

Judge Leinenweber, 54, was appointed by President Reagan in 1986, on the recommendation of Representative Michel. He graduated from the University of Chicago Law School in 1962. Judge Leinenweber practiced in two Joliet firms from 1962 to 1985. He acted as an attorney for various governmental bodies while in private practice. He served as a Republican representative in the Illinois House from 1973 to 1982. He was chairman of the House Judiciary I Committee in 1981-82.

Judge Leinenweber's performance is viewed as good by most lawyers. He works hard, and is diligent. Lawyers give him high marks for his temperament. While he tries to manage his cases well, some lawyers perceive a reluctance on his part to make decisions. His written opinions are workmanlike.

Judge Leinenweber is reported to conduct trials in an adequate manner. He treats the lawyers who appear before him with courtesy. Lawyers report one major area of concern about Judge Leinenweber. Many lawyers question his ability to handle complex legal questions, although some lawyers report that he handles such matters satisfactorily. It appears to many attorneys that he handles routine legal questions well.

While Judge Leinenweber has proved to be a good federal judge, lawyers hope that with increased exposure to federal law, his performance on complex legal matters will improve.