A new program was launched to help those in the court process to connect to people and find resources and information for their court case. Illinois Court Help is the first personalized court information service offered by the Illinois Courts and is designed to help make courts and information more accessible. 

You can call or text 833-411-1121 to connect with a court guide who can provide court information and answer specific questions about the process. It can also connect you to resources that you need whether you are going to court, filing forms, or trying to access legal aid. Initial hours are from 10 AM until 2 PM Monday through Friday with expanded hours coming soon.

During social distancing, COVID-19 has made court nearly virtual, allowing you to be in court from the comfort of your home, but a lot of times this makes things more difficult when trying to access the information you need. With many people relying on a public defender or even representing themselves, Illinois Court Help comes at a crucial time.

Nationally, an estimated 3 out of every 5 people in civil legal cases go to court without a lawyer. In Illinois, ½ of all family law cases and 56% of domestic violence cases had at least one person representing themselves in 2020. 

Illinois Court Help will provide step-by-step instructions on how to file court documents and explain how to appear in court on Zoom. Users can also access one set of easy-to-read forms that can be used in any court in Illinois. While this is helpful for citizens, it is also helpful for lawyers who may need to find courthouse information. The service does not provide legal advice but allows for people to connect with other people who can give legal advice. 

For more information you can visit www.ilcourthelp.gov. Again, that phone number is 833-411-1121.