Before deciding to go it alone, every effort should be made to try to find legal representation, for example, contacting a local bar association or a legal services organization or legal clinic. For those who are determined to represent themselves in court, the judges say that self-education is key. Pro se litigants are held to the same standards as lawyers, and failure to follow court rules can subject pro se litigant to the same penalties as lawyers.
You may not contact the judge or the judge’s staff to ask for legal advice. Many counties in Illinois offer free brochures or information on their web sites to help pro se litigants. In Chicago, there is a Pro Se Help Desk in the Daley Center with free assistance available to pro se litigants in interpreting and filling out court-required documents. While County Clerk staff is forbidden by law from giving legal advice, they can offer information to plaintiffs and defendants throughout their case on matters ranging from court procedures and fees to how to follow up on the judge’s orders following a ruling. Also, free legal information is on line at www.IllinoisLegalAid.org. The Illinois Judges Association, established in 1971, provides continuing legal education to members of the judiciary and education to the public on the Illinois courts and court procedures. For further information, write to the IJA at 321 S. Plymouth Court, Chicago, IL 60604-3997, or visit their web site atwww.ija.org.
Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois Judges Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations. Consult a lawyer if you have questions about the application of the law in a particular case.