CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Federal judges in Chicago are reflecting on the justice system as the courts in Illinois celebrate their bicentennial.
Congress established the federal courts on March 3, 1819. In marking the 200th anniversary, Chief Judge Ruben Castillo recalled how then-US Attorney Jim Thompson informed federal Judge Otto Kerner he was being charged with corruption for crimes committed while he was governor.
Castillo said he wishes every politician knew that story.
Several judges gathered in the lobby of the Dirksen Federal Building for celebration that included a giant cheesecake with a gavel.
"There have been mistakes over the years; it is a human process," Pallmayer said.
A museum opened last May in the building displaying history from the courts, judges, famous cases and interactive videos to celebrate the two centuries of work.
