A coalition of 15 states is suing over President Donald Trump's efforts to fast-track energy-related projects, saying the administration is bypassing environmental protection laws and threatening endangered species, critical habitat, and cultural resources.

From: 
msn.com

This Mother's Day, a new law that aims to protect survivors of domestic abuse goes into effect. "Karina's Law" is named after Karina Gonzalez, a mother who was killed during a domestic violence incident in Little Village.

From: 
ABC 7 Chicago

The office of Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul charged a Quincy man on Friday, May 9, for allegedly disseminating child sexual abuse material. The Attorney General’s office charged Timothy Mason, 43, in Adams County Circuit Court with five Class X felony counts of dissemination of child pornography, each punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Mason is detained at the Adams County Jail, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, before Judge Tad Brenner.

From: 
Muddy River News

Illinois Supreme Court Appoints Lester Finkle as Judge in 8th Subcircuit of Cook County

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Kelsey Jo Burge

Justice P. Scott Neville and the Illinois Supreme Court have announced the appointment of Lester Finkle as a judge in the Eighth Subcircuit of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

Mr. Finkle is being appointed to fill the vacancy created by the election of Justice Mary L. Mikva to the First District Appellate Court. Mr. Finkle’s appointment is effective May 30, 2025, and will conclude on December 7, 2026.

Public Service Recognition Week

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Kelsey Jo Burge

In honor of Public Service Recognition Week (May 4 – May 10, 2025), the Illinois State Bar Association commends all those who tirelessly work in the public service sector, with special recognition to our more than 1,000 members who commit themselves to serving the people of Illinois. These dedicated individuals play a valuable role in the functioning of our government, upholding our legal system, and advocating for underrepresented and vulnerable populations. 

More people are applying to law schools, and the rise can be attributed to the 2024 elections, an unstable economy and a focus on social issues, experts say.

From: 
ABA Journal

The US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit affirmed a district court’s jury verdict that found trade dress infringement and liability under state deceptive practices law, and the court’s order entering a nationwide permanent injunction.

From: 
The National Law Review

A new amendment to the Illinois 8-1-1 safe digging law, also known as the Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act, is now in effect and utility companies said it’s all about planning ahead and protecting lives.

From: 
25 News Now

Five days before a Rock Falls man’s murder trial is set to begin, Whiteside County’s state’s attorney is asking to delay the trial because her office continues to wait for DNA test results held up in the Illinois State Police crime lab.

From: 
Shaw Local News Network