In Domestic Violence Court, promising first day of bail reform as cases get closer review, judge works ‘few kinks out of the system’

A holding cell in the Domestic Violence Courthouse in 2005. There were 16 cases of misdemeanor domestic violence before Judge Michael Hogan on Monday. Prosecutors sought to detain people in 14 of them. (Rich Hein/Chicago Sun-Times file)

The first day of bail reform in Cook County’s Domestic Violence Court began an hour late Monday as even small cases now demanded more paperwork and closer review.

Advocates said they were encouraged by day’s end, saying court officials appeared to be giving more consideration to detaining people who are a threat.