Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis To Receive Charles W. Daniels Judicial Leadership Award From NAPSA

Posted on August 21, 2025 by Marybeth Stanziola

Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis and the Illinois Supreme Court have been named as the recipients of the Charles W. Daniels Judicial Leadership Award from the National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies (NAPSA) for the Court’s landmark work in supporting the expansion of pretrial services throughout Illinois.

Remote Appearance Committee Seeks Suggestions for Improving Remote Court Appearances

Posted on August 21, 2025 by Marybeth Stanziola

The Remote Appearance Committee of the Illinois Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Justice (ATJ Commission) announced today the launch of an opportunity for court users to share suggestions on how to improve remote court appearances for the benefit of all.

“The Illinois Supreme Court is committed to remote court proceedings as a way to increase access to justice statewide,” Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis said. “We encourage court users to share suggestions on how to improve this experience.”

Amid high-profile court challenges, ISU's new Legal Studies chief says education is key to building trust in the system

With countless court cases shaping life in the Trump era, the new head of Illinois State University’s Legal Studies program says public education about the legal system is critical to maintaining trust in it. Amelia Buragas took over this month as director of ISU’s Legal Studies program following the retirement of Tom McClure.

From: 
WGLT

Driver had ineffective counsel after crash that killed Bartonville teenager, court says

A Bartonville man's 14-year prison sentence for aggravated DUI and reckless homicide was reversed Tuesday after a state appeals court ruled that he didn't have effective counsel during his sentencing hearing in 2023.

From: 
Peoria Journal Star

Illinois law bans police from ticketing students for breaking school rules

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Wednesday to ban police from giving tickets and citations to students who violate school rules. Lawmakers and advocates argue these fines unfairly impact students of color.

From: 
WAND

Senate President Harmon appeals $10M fine for improper campaign contributions

How long can a political candidate’s decision to loan their campaign money allow them to take unlimited donations from donors? As long as four years for a state senator, according to Senate President Don Harmon’s attorney.

From: 
Capitol News Illinois

Chicago's legal community buzzing about U.S. Attorney Boutros' recruiting e-mail

The U.S. Department of Justice is operating under a nationwide hiring freeze, with some exceptions. That mandate came down Jan. 20, when President Donald Trump took office. But the newly installed U.S. attorney in the Northern District of Illinois is soliciting applicants and encouraging former federal prosecutors to apply.

From: 
ABC 7

Staffing shortages challenge new student mental health screening law in Illinois

The Illinois State Board of Education is tasked with providing resources and model policies to schools by September 1, 2026, to prepare for the screenings. However, concerns have been raised about the availability of staff to conduct these screenings.

From: 
News Channel 20