A recent court filing reveals a tumultuous legal battle involving allegations of judicial misconduct, bribery, and the violation of constitutional rights. Marissa Girard, acting as her own attorney, filed a complaint on January 6, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against several judges and court officials, including Judge Rossana P. Fernandez.
The case stems from ongoing custody proceedings initiated by Jane F. Girard in Cook County to strip custody from Kenton Girard, Marissa's husband. The plaintiff alleges that she was wrongfully named as a third-party respondent in these proceedings despite her severe mental and physical disabilities. Marissa claims this inclusion was a strategic move by Jane's legal team to exert pressure on Kenton by causing her undue stress and financial burden. She suffers from interstitial cystitis and PTSD, conditions exacerbated by stress, which she argues have been aggravated by the legal harassment she faces.
Marissa accuses various defendants of colluding with Jane's legal team to exploit her disabilities and violate her rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). She recounts being subjected to excessive legal motions aimed at intimidation and distress. Her attempts to participate in court proceedings via Zoom due to her medical conditions were denied without justification, allegedly violating ADA provisions requiring reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
The complaint also delves into broader accusations of corruption within the Cook County Domestic Relations Division. It references an ongoing "Bribery Lawsuit" that implicates several judges in accepting bribes for favorable rulings connected to Beermann LLP, a law firm representing Jane F. Girard. Specific allegations are made against Judge Gregory E. Ahern Jr., who is accused of receiving undeclared income from Beermann LLP as part of a bribery scheme.
Marissa seeks injunctive relief requiring Cook County courts to comply with ADA standards by allowing remote participation in court proceedings for individuals with disabilities like herself. She also demands accountability for what she describes as systemic corruption within the family court system that has compromised her rights and those of other litigants.
The case is overseen by Judge Andrea R. Wood with Magistrate Judge Maria Valdez assisting. Attorneys involved include Elena S. Demos JD and Vincent D. Waller JD among others implicated in the alleged misconduct within the Cook County judicial system. The case ID is: 125cv00136.