Election Judge Information

Election Judge Information

What are Election Judges?

Judges of Elections are responsible for the administration of election procedures in the polling place on Election Day. They are in the position of ensuring that the election process is administered fairly and in accordance with the law. Election Judges help guarantee the rights of voters are protected on Election Day.

What are qualifications necessary to be an Election Judge in Effingham County?

  • Be a citizen of the United States;

  • Be a registered voter;

  • Be of good repute and character;

  • Be able to speak, read and write the English language;

  • Be skilled in the four fundamental rules of mathematics;  

  • Be of good understanding and capable;

  • Not be a candidate for any office in the election and not be an elected committeeman; and

  • Reside in the precinct from where judge is selected to serve.

   Election Judges are required to declare party affiliation.

How are Election Judges selected?

Election Judges are chosen by the County Clerk and by the Party Chairperson.  In each precinct the party which casts the highest average number of votes at the three most recent gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by three judges; the party which casts the second highest number of votes at the three most recent gubernatorial elections in the precinct shall be represented by two judges.

Do Election Judges receive training and compensation?

Training is offered for Election Judges before each election, no matter what type. The training course covers duties and responsibilities of election judges and includes an examination.

In Effingham County judges who work an election day with training will receive $195. Judges who work an election day without training will receive $150. Training is important.

Some duties of Judges of Election:

  • Open and close the polls;

  • Take responsibility for all election materials;

  • Ensure that only qualified electors are permitted to vote;

  • Be able to give instructions in the method of voting when requested by a voter;

  • Be able to give assistance to illiterate and physically disabled voters;

  • Maintain order in the polling place throughout the day of election;

  • Tally the vote after the polls close and certify the result in that precinct.

How may I become a Judge of Election?

Contact the County Clerk’s office by email countyclerk@effinghamcountyil.gov , by telephone 217-342-6535, or by mail at P O Box 628, Effingham, IL and express your interest in serving as a Judge of Election.

Election Judges are vital to the conduct of efficient and honest elections to which voters are entitled.

Click here for information on Effingham County Clerk’s High School Student Election Judge Program.