Crime & Traffic

As of September 18, 2023, Illinois courts no longer use a cash bail system. Instead, they use a “pretrial release” system as allowed by the SAFE-T Act. Learn more about this new system and what it means.

Explains the rules that people must follow for self-identification with the police.

Discover how to report police misconduct in Illinois, including which forms to file, where to submit them, and what to expect after you complain.

​Discover how traffic violations can impact your immigration status. Understand how ICE handles different offenses and what may lead to detainment.

Describes what rights people who get arrested have while in custody. Explains what you're allowed to do when interacting with law enforcement and what they are allowed to do to you.

An overview of LGBTQIA+ rights in areas such as employment, housing, education, and family.

Explains when police can search your property with or without your consent.

Explains what you're allowed to do if the police are investigating you for a crime.

A blog on the possibility of a police officer searching your car and your corresponding rights

What to know if you think Chicago police violated your rights and you want to sue them a guide for the public produced by First Defense Legal Aid to provide general details about police misconduct lawsuits.

Information about the search of students and their property