Lunchtime FOIA Series

Attend one or all of this four-part series that gives you an in-depth overview of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act!

Overview and Compliance Tips
Live Webcast | Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:05pm
1 hour MCLE credit

Part 1 of this four-part series gives you an overview of the Freedom of Information Act and tips for staying in compliance. Topics include: the presumption concerning openness and why agencies are obligated to provide records to requesters; the burden of proof that must be met when asserting requested information is exempt from disclosure; the most commonly used FOIA exemptions; the required response time for FOIA requests; how to handle vague or burdensome requests; and more. Register here.

Freedom of Information Act Case Law and Public Access Counselor Opinions Update 
Live Webcast | Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:05pm
1 hour MCLE credit

Part 2 of this lunchtime series examines the 2025 Binding Public Access Counselor Decisions and 2025 Case Law Interpreting FOIA.  Register here.

Freedom of Information Act and Law Enforcement Records
Live Webcast | Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:05pm
1 hour MCLE credit

Join us for Part 3 as we examine the unique challenges associated with law enforcement records, including body-worn cameras, investigations, and juvenile records. A look at the most common exemptions for law enforcement records (such as personal privacy and maintaining the integrity of an investigation) is also included.  Register here.

Freedom of Information Act Best Practices: A Discussion with the Public Access Counselor 
Live Webcast | Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:05pm
1 hour MCLE credit

The series closes with a discussion on the most common FOIA disputes brought to the Public Access Counselor (PAC), what to expect during the Request for Review process with the PAC, and the new developments in binding opinions. Additional topics include: the requirements of FOIA that go beyond responding to requests, the best practice tips you need to know when responding to Requests for Review, and the concerning trends in FOIA disputes. Register here.