Illinois Supreme Court Holds "Law School for Legislators"

The Illinois Supreme Court hosted "Law School for Legislators" on March 13, with all seven justices, leadership, and new members of the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate in attendance.  

The event, held at the Illinois Supreme Court Building in Springfield, was intended to familiarize the legislative branch with court operations and to foster dialogue of communication, cooperation, and coordination between the legislative and judicial branches. 

Chief Justice Lloyd A. Karmeier addressed the attendees and spoke on topics including the role of the supreme court and its relation to the legislative branch and how cases are initiated and proceed through the Illinois Courts.
 
Justice Robert R. Thomas spoke about the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism and the importance of promoting civility throughout the legal profession. Justice Mary Jane Theis spoke on efforts to improve the administration of justice, including implementation of problem-solving courts.
 
Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts Director Marcia M. Meis spoke about the administrative authority of the supreme court over all the state courts, as well as the funding of the courts. Chief Judge Michael Kramer of the 21st Judicial Circuit spoke about how a lack of funding for probation effects the implementation of justice at the local level and the role of probation in problem-solving courts.