Illinois Army National Guard Lt. Colonel Now Judge

Attorney and soldier: Lt. Col. Smith reports for duty as associate judge 
News-Democrat
BY ELIZABETH DONALD
September 6, 2015

She also worked with the veterans court, helping veterans who end up in the court system: Often it is drug- or alcohol-related cases stemming from post-traumatic stress disorder, she said, with some domestic or anger and mood issues. The veterans court is designed to help veterans resolve legal issues stemming from their service with treatment and counseling rather than jail time.

It’s been a good year for Sarah D. Smith. Smith, 39, is an attorney and prosecutor in Madison County who serves in the Illinois Army National Guard.

Two weeks ago, she was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel. She and her husband are expecting their third child. And she’s just been named one of the newest associate judges in the 3rd Judicial Circuit. “It’s been a very good year,” Smith said, laughing. “It’s a little overwhelming.”

In the Army National Guard, Smith was in the motor pool, working as a light-vehicle mechanic. She served in Afghanistan and Kosovo and has been decorated with the Bronze Star. Her military benefits helped pay for law school, Smith said, and after she graduated, she was commissioned as an officer into the JAG Corps — Judge Advocate General. read more here