705 ILCS 45/2.1

If the maximum number of associate judges authorized under Section 2 of this Act is appointed, and the chief judge of the circuit considers the number of associate judges inadequate, additional associate judges may be appointed as provided in this Section 2.1. The chief judge of the circuit in which it is desired to appoint one or more additional associate judges shall file in writing a petition with the Supreme Court listing the reasons such circuit needs the additional associate judge and detailing what use will be made of each such associate judge. The Supreme Court shall determine whether a clear need exists for the additional associate judges. The Supreme Court shall consider the following factors in making its determination: (1) case loads in the circuit; (2) the number of associate judges, resident circuit judges and circuit judges in the circuit; (3) the number and location in the circuit of major federal and state highways; (4) the location in the circuit of state police highway truck weighing stations; (5) the relationship of urban population to large metropolitan centers in the various counties of the circuit; (6) the location in the circuit of state institutions including, but not limited to, universities, mental health facilities and penitentiaries; (7) any other factor deemed relevant by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court shall either approve or disapprove the petition. If approved, the Supreme Court shall notify in writing the chief judge who filed the petition as to the number of additional associate judges who may be appointed in the circuit. If the Supreme Court disapproves, it need not state its reasons therefor. The maximum number of associate judges appointed under the provisions of this Section 2.1 shall not exceed 50 throughout the state. There is no limit within this maximum figure on the number of associate judges that may be appointed pursuant to this Section 2.1 in any particular circuit. (Source: P.A. 84-1395.)