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 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.

A blog about recording public police conduct.

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

Explains what to do if you weren't able to change your court date and missed going to court.

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

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

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

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

The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to have a lawyer for criminal prosecutions. This article explains the rights you have to a lawyer and how to get free representation if you face potential imprisonment.

A group of articles and how-tos that explain what to expect if you are charged with a crime.

Steps to file a writ of habeas corpus to challenge why you are in prison.

Options for getting help from a lawyer if you are charged with a crime including a private lawyer or a public defender.

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.

Starting in 2023, officers in certain counties and municipalities will need to wear body cameras at all times.

This article explains initial steps to taken when someone you know has been arrested by the police.

Information about the search of students and their property

Explains how to stay calm in encounters with the police. Includes your constitutional rights if you are arrested, how to talk to the police, how to find an attorney, mindfulness techniques, and resources.