waist up photo of juan ponce de leon smiling, wearing a suit

About Juan

Juan Ponce de Leon has spent over 15 years on the front lines of the justice system, standing up for people and making sure the facts matter. As a Public Defender, he’s advocated for children, families, and individuals facing serious charges. Over his legal career, he has represented thousands of clients—first in child protection, then juvenile justice, and now in felony courtrooms across Cook County.

Juan has tried both bench and jury trials, handled complex felony cases, and fought to protect his clients’ constitutional rights at every stage of the process. He’s also served as second chair in multiple murder trials and has extensive experience with motions to suppress, bond hearings, and sentencing. Juan has been found Qualified and Recommended by almost a dozen Bar Associations—the professional organizations that evaluate attorneys and judges—based on his legal ability, integrity, and experience.

A courtroom veteran. A community advocate. A judge we can trust.

Juan and his wife, Adriana, are raising their two sons in Des Plaines — the community they proudly call home.

The son of an immigrant and a lifelong public servant, Juan is committed to justice, fairness, and community. He lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife Adriana, their two sons, and their German Shepherds, Athena and Hera.

Juan is an Eagle Scout, an active member of the Maine and Elk Grove Township Democrats, and serves on the board of a local charitable organization. When he’s not in court, you’ll find him coaching his son’s baseball team, volunteering, or practicing guitar.

  • Making the justice system more fair and accessible for everyone —  not just those with resources or influence.

  • Treating every person with dignity and respect in the courtroom, no matter their background.

  • Standing up for our rights and freedoms — and refusing to play politics with the law.

  • Bringing real experience to the bench after almost 20  years on the front lines as a Public Defender.

Juan is will fight for our community by: