Federal judge says Illinois Supreme Court likely violated ousted Cook County judge’s rights, but won’t force reinstatement as case continues

A federal judge has concluded that retired Cook County Judge James R. Brown raised substantial constitutional questions about his removal from a temporary judicial assignment, but the dispute is now headed into uncertain legal territory that could ultimately be decided by higher courts.

From: 
CWB Chicago

Man convicted in Collinsville Starbucks rape challenges ‘illegal’ interrogations

The man convicted last month in connection with a 2022 kidnapping and rape that began at a Collinsville Starbucks is asking the judge for a new trial.

From: 
Belleville News-Democrat

Pro Bono Spotlight: Reclaiming Access to Justice as a National Value

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Marybeth Stanziola

By: Andrew Sharp, Esq., Knowledge Strategy Manager, CARPLS; Executive Director, Legal Wellness Clinic

On June 19, 2026, the Obama Presidential Center opens its doors on Chicago’s South Side. The Center celebrates a presidency grounded in civic participation, dignity, and the idea that government can be a force for inclusion when it is designed to meet people where they are. As the legal profession reflects on that legacy, one part of it deserves renewed attention: the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Access to Justice.

Updates to Illinois Judges Foundation Harold Sullivan Scholarship Program

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Marybeth Stanziola

The Illinois Judges Foundation (IJF) is proud to support the next generation of legal leaders through its Harold Sullivan Scholarship Program—a collection of scholarships recognizing law students who demonstrate a commitment to service, integrity, and the pursuit of justice. 

New this year, the IJF introduces the Justice Mary Jane Theis Scholarship, one of several awards offered under the Harold Sullivan Scholarship umbrella, honoring Justice Theis’s legacy of leadership and dedication to the judiciary. 

Simmons Hanly Conroy Reaches $12 Billion in Client Recoveries

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Marybeth Stanziola

ALTON, Ill. —

Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP is proud to announce it has secured more than $12 billion on behalf of clients nationwide, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s continued advocacy for individuals and families impacted by asbestos exposure, environmental contamination, dangerous pharmaceuticals, corporate negligence, and personal injury.

IL Democrats send Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act to Pritzker

A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could protect medical records related to abortion and gender affirming care provided in Illinois.

From: 
WAND

Lawsuits piling up against metro-east contractor that vanished from market

Customers and creditors have filed at least 22 lawsuits in Madison and St. Clair counties seeking more than $4.5 million in damages from a company that used to be the metro-east’s largest homebuilder.

From: 
Belleville News-Democrat

Gov. JB Pritzker pauses tax incentives for data centers after regulation efforts stall in Illinois legislature

Following an Illinois spring legislative session in which efforts to regulate data center development and curb government support for the energy-hungry facilities stalled, Gov. JB Pritzker took matters into his own hands Friday.

From: 
Chicago Tribune