Northern District of Illinois

Headline News

Tue, Nov 26, 2024 12:43 PM

Judge April Perry Sworn in as U.S. District Judge

Today in a private ceremony, April Perry was sworn in as the newest district court judge on the federal bench in Chicago.

Thu, Nov 21, 2024 11:09 AM

Court Honors Native American Heritage Month with Panel, Cultural Presentation
On November 20, 2024, the Court, in partnership with the Federal Bar Association, Chicago Chapter, commemorated 100 years of Native American citizenship in honor of Native American Heritage Month with a panel discussion on the complicated history of Native American voting rights.

Mon, Nov 18, 2024 5:26 PM

U.S. District Court Swears in 259 Citizenship Candidates in Naturalization Ceremony at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a naturalization ceremony at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in which 259 new citizens from 49 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens.

Mon, Nov 18, 2024 10:51 AM

Nov. 20: Citizenship & Voting Rights of Native Americans Panel, Public Welcome
The event, Citizenship and Voting Rights of Native Americans, held in celebration of Native American Heritage Month, will open with a dance and drum tribute by the Black Hawk Performance Company.

Mon, Nov 18, 2024 9:55 AM

Court Hosts 504 High School Students in Mock Trial Competition
On November 9 and 10, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted the Empire Mock Trial World Championship, which included 504 high school students from 16 states and 5 countries including Canada, Ireland, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Wed, Nov 13, 2024 1:53 PM

Senate confirms April Perry as U.S. District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
On November 12, 2024, the U.S. Senate confirmed April Perry as U.S. District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Thu, Nov 7, 2024 4:21 PM

Fake Electronic Filings Notifications Scam Targets Attorneys
The U.S. Courts report that attorneys across the country are being targeted with fake electronic filing notifications, in which emails purporting to come from the federal Judiciary's Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) system led recipients to a malicious website with computer viruses.

Fri, Nov 1, 2024 4:00 PM

Judge Laura K. McNally Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois
CHICAGO, Ill.- Today in a private ceremony, Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall swore in Laura K. McNally as the newest United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Oct 15, 2024 12:39 PM

127 Citizenship Candidates Sworn in at Chicago Botanic Garden
On Friday, October 11, 2024, U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Amy J. St. Eve, Seventh Circuit, administered the Oath of Allegiance to 127 candidates from 42 countries at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Mon, Sep 30, 2024 3:01 PM

Daniel P. McLaughlin Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois
CHICAGO, Ill.- Today in a private ceremony, Daniel P. McLaughlin was sworn in as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Fri, Sep 27, 2024 10:20 AM

U.S. Courts 5th Annual Bill of Rights Day Student Contest

Join the U.S. Courts to Celebrate the Anniversary of the Bill of Rights. Please click here for guidelines.

Wed, Sep 25, 2024 2:24 PM

UPDATED: GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS, USA v. Madigan et al, 22 CR 115

The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in United States of America. v. Madigan et al, scheduled to commence with jury selection at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Tue, Sep 17, 2024 8:58 PM

U.S. District Court, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Host 119 Citizenship Candidates for Special Naturalization Ceremony in Celebration of National Citizenship and Constitution Day
On September 17, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State hosted a special Constitution Day naturalization ceremony

Mon, Sep 9, 2024 12:46 PM

U.S. District Court Swears in 317 Citizenship Candidates in Naturalization Ceremony at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a naturalization ceremony at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in which 317 new citizens from 61 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens.

Fri, Aug 23, 2024 2:44 PM

Judge Georgia N. Alexakis Sworn in as U.S. District Judge
Today in a private ceremony, Georgia N. Alexakis was sworn in as the newest district court judge on the federal bench in Chicago.

Thu, Aug 1, 2024 6:08 PM

Northern District of Illinois Welcomes Judge Virginia M. Kendall as Its Chief Judge
Judge Virginia M. Kendall became the Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois at midnight, earlier today upon Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer stepping down as Chief after a five-year term.

Mon, Jul 29, 2024 4:54 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDING, USA v. Guzman-Loera et al 09 CR 383-21
The following procedures will apply in connection with the hearing in 09 CR 383-21 scheduled to commence at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Courtroom 1719 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse.

Tue, Jul 2, 2024 3:10 PM

July 19, 2024: Free Virtual Seminar for Attorneys on Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence
July 19, 2024: Free Virtual Seminar for Attorneys on Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence

Fri, Jun 21, 2024 4:41 PM

GUIDELINES FOR SENTENCING, USA v. Burke et al, 19 CR 322

The following procedures will apply in connection with the sentencing in United States of America. v. Burke et al, scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 24, 2024

Thu, Jun 20, 2024 5:30 PM

489 New American Citizens Take Oath at Wintrust Arena in Chicago
On June 18, 2024, 489 individuals from 77 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens in a special naturalization ceremony at the Wintrust Arena, home of the Chicago Sky and DePaul Men's and Women's basketball teams.

Wed, Jun 12, 2024 9:03 AM

Court Mourns the Passing of the Honorable Harry D. Leinenweber
CHICAGO, Ill.- Harry D. Leinenweber, a United States District Court Judge, passed away this evening at the age of 87.

Thu, Jun 6, 2024 6:27 AM

Judge John F. Grady Summer Teacher Institute
Please share the information for this years Judge John F. Grady Summer Teacher Institute with family and friends. This unique one-day teachers institute will focus on elections and the courts.

Tue, Jun 4, 2024 1:19 PM

Magistrate Judge M. David Weisman Reappointed to Eight-Year Term

Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced that United States Magistrate Judge M. David Weisman has been reappointed to a new eight-year term of service as United States Magistrate Judges. Judge Weisman's new term will expire on June 16, 2032.

Mon, Jun 3, 2024 1:51 PM

262 New American Citizens Take Oath at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
On May 30, 2024, 262 individuals from 56 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens in a special naturalization ceremony at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Fri, May 31, 2024 4:39 PM

U.S. District Court selects Daniel P. McLaughlin and Laura K. McNally to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judges for the Northern District of Illinois
Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer announced today that the U.S. District Court has selected Daniel P. McLaughlin and Laura K. McNally to be the next United States Magistrate Judges for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, May 21, 2024 3:01 PM

Court Welcomes U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeannice Appenteng in Ceremonial Investiture
On May 17, 2024, Judge Jeannice Appenteng was sworn in as a magistrate judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Thu, May 16, 2024 1:39 PM

25 New Citizens Sworn in on Infield at Guaranteed Rate Field before Chicago White Sox Game

On May 15, 2024, the Chicago White Sox hosted a naturalization ceremony at Guaranteed Rate Field. U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin administered the Oath of Allegiance to 25 candidates from 17 countries on the infield just before the White Sox afternoon game against the Washington Nationals.

Mon, May 6, 2024 3:06 PM

IL Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism Releases Oral History Interview with Judge Edmond E. Chang, First Asian American Article III Federal Judge in Illinois
Profile of Judge Chang

Fri, May 3, 2024 9:47 AM

2024 EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE AWARD WINNERS
2024 winners and photos

Tue, Apr 30, 2024 5:08 PM

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: The Continuing Pursuit of Equality, May 7, 2024

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: The Continuing Pursuit of Equality, May 7, 2024

Tue, Apr 2, 2024 12:55 PM

Judge Sunil R. Harjani sworn in as U.S. District Judge

Chicago, Ill. – Today in a private ceremony, Judge Sunil R. Harjani was sworn in on the district court bench.

Thu, Mar 21, 2024 10:07 AM

292 New American Citizens Take Oath at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
On March 19, 2024, 292 individuals from 65 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens in a special naturalization ceremony at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Fri, Mar 15, 2024 8:12 AM

District Court Honors Graduates of the Judge Rubén Castillo Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) Program
Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois honored a new class of graduates of the Judge Rubén Castillo Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) Program.

Fri, Mar 8, 2024 3:43 PM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program beginning March 15, 2024, through April 12, 2024
Beginning March 15 through April 12, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be accepting recommendations from attorneys of record to the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program.

Thu, Mar 7, 2024 4:00 PM

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Awards
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than April 1, 2024, for attorneys who have provided outstanding pro bono and public interest representation in civil and criminal matters before this Court.

Mon, Mar 4, 2024 2:34 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Jeffrey I. Cummings in Ceremonial Investiture
On March 1, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey I. Cummings was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture

Thu, Feb 29, 2024 11:43 AM

Free Flu & COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic - Wednesday, March 6, 2024
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mon, Feb 26, 2024 5:51 PM

BANKRUPTCY JUDGE POSITION NORTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS - Applications must be received by March 27, 2024
BANKRUPTCY JUDGE POSITION NORTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS

Fri, Feb 16, 2024 10:25 AM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer Administers Oath of Allegiance to 99 Naval Recruits from 31 Countries at Naval Station Great Lakes
On February 15, 2024, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer administered to Oath of Allegiance to 99 new citizens, from 31 countries and 6 continents, all of them U.S. Navy Cadets. The ceremony took place at Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL).

Thu, Feb 15, 2024 1:33 PM

U.S. District for Northern Dist. of Illinois seeking applicants for U.S. Magistrate Judge - Chicago vacancy
The deadline for the submission of completed applications is 5:00 p.m. on March 6, 2024

Wed, Jan 17, 2024 3:18 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Jeremy Daniel in Ceremonial Investiture
On January 11, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jeremy C. Daniel was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Tue, Jan 16, 2024 4:59 PM

Justice Inspired. Contest for Teachers and their Students
Hello Teachers in the Northern District of Illinois,

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) are seeking the help and input of Northern District of Illinois teachers and their students in a courthouse beautification initiative called Justice Inspired.

Thu, Jan 4, 2024 8:25 AM

MLK Legacy Conversation. A Don't Miss Event!
Jonathan Eig, author of “King: A Life,” the widely acclaimed biography of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will appear in conversation with journalist Robert “Scoop” Jackson at Chicago's downtown U.S. federal courthouse to discuss the first comprehensive biography of Dr. King in decades.

Wed, Jan 3, 2024 12:42 PM

Magistrate Judge History Project
You are cordially invited to attend the grand opening ceremony of the Magistrate Judge History Project.

Tue, Jan 2, 2024 3:42 PM

Judge Jacqueline P. Cox sworn in as Chief Bankruptcy Judge
Chicago, Ill. – Effective January 1, 2024, Judge Jacqueline P. Cox was sworn in as Chief Bankruptcy Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Dec 12, 2023 1:32 PM

District Court Holds First Ever Naturalization Ceremony at Museum of Science and Industry
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer administered the Oath of Allegiance to 150 citizenship candidates from 45 countries at the first ever naturalization ceremony at the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI).

Mon, Dec 11, 2023 11:20 AM

Bill of Rights Contest Winners

The U.S. Courts Fourth Annual Bill of Rights Day events concluded with a live panel discussion including, 7th Circuit Judge Diane Wood, U.S. District Court Judge Kate Menendez of Minnesota and Magistrate Judge Kellie Barr of Southern Indiana. Attendees included students and their families from across the states that make up the 7th & 8th federal judicial circuits. During the event winners of the student Bill of Rights contest were announced. It was wonderful to hear from the winners as the judges spoke to them live. Please look for the announcement of the Fifth Annual Bill of Rights events in the Fall of 2024.
Link to the 2023 winning submissions: https://judiciallearningcenter.org/bill-of-rights-day/

Tue, Dec 5, 2023 12:10 PM

Court Welcomes Magistrate Judge Keri L. Holleb Hotaling in Ceremonial Investiture
On November 30, 2023, U.S. Magistrate Judge Keri L. Holleb Hotaling was sworn in at a ceremonial investiture.

Tue, Nov 14, 2023 2:23 PM

73 New Citizens Sworn in at Cantigny Park for Special Veterans Day Naturalization Ceremony
Wheaton, Ill. – On November 13, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a naturalization ceremony at Cantigny Park. 73 candidates from 32 countries were sworn in as new U.S. citizens.

Thu, Nov 2, 2023 5:47 PM

124 Citizenship Candidates Sworn in at Chicago Botanic Garden
On October 30, 2023, U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly administered the Oath of Allegiance to 124 candidates from 44 countries at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Thu, Nov 2, 2023 10:35 AM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS: USA v. Burke et al, 19 CR 322
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in United States of America. v. Burke et al, scheduled to commence at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, November 6, 2023.

Wed, Nov 1, 2023 7:39 AM

Reappointment of Incumbent United States Magistrate Judge M. David Weisman
Magistrate Judge Weisman is a full-time United States magistrate judge in the Eastern Division of the Northern District of Illinois, with a regular place of office at Chicago, Illinois.

Fri, Oct 27, 2023 11:40 AM

Magistrate Judge Appenteng makes history as first African American woman to serve as Magistrate Judge in Northern District of Illinois.
Jeannice Williams Appenteng Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge

Thu, Oct 26, 2023 12:00 PM

Judge Jeffrey Cummings Sworn in as U.S. District Judge
Chicago, Ill. – Today in a private ceremony, Judge Jeffrey I. Cummings was sworn in on the district court bench.

Fri, Oct 6, 2023 4:19 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS, USA v. Liggins et al., 21 cr 618

The following procedures will apply in connection with the jury trial 21 CR 618 scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m. on October 10, 2023, in Courtroom 2541 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Wed, Sep 27, 2023 9:36 AM

U.S. Courts Fourth Annual Bill of Rights Day Student Contest

Join the U.S. Courts to Celebrate the Anniversary of the Bill of Rights.
Please click here for guidelines!

Mon, Sep 25, 2023 3:19 PM

300 New American Citizens Take Oath at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
Today at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 300 individuals from 63 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens in a special naturalization ceremony.

Mon, Sep 25, 2023 2:37 PM

CLE Opportunity: September 28, 2023 - Department of Justice Student Loan Bankruptcy Guidance Litigation
On September 28, 2023, the Bench Bar Committee for the Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois will host a CLE program on Student Loan Bankruptcy Litigation and related guidance and procedures of the U.S. Department of Justice for discharge actions.

Wed, Sep 20, 2023 1:57 PM

U.S. District Court, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Host 97 Citizenship Candidates for Special Naturalization Ceremony in Celebration of National Citizenship and Constitution Day
Ninety-seven candidates from 37 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens.

Mon, Sep 18, 2023 10:17 AM

Please Join Us in Remembering the Honorable James B. Zagel
Friday, October 27, 2023, at 3:30 p.m.

Mon, Sep 18, 2023 8:47 AM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS, USA v. Guzman-Loera et al, 09 CR 383

The following procedures will apply in connection with the hearing in 09 CR 383 scheduled to commence at 1 p.m. on Monday, September 18, 2023, in Courtroom 1241 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Wed, Sep 13, 2023 4:36 PM

Judge Jeffrey Cummings Confirmed as U.S. District Judge

On September 12, 2023, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey I. Cummings to the district court bench.

Mon, Sep 11, 2023 9:15 AM

Free Virtual CLE Opportunity for Attorneys. The Changing Dynamic of Intimate Partner Violence: Supporting and Providing Resources to Those at Risk. September 26, 2023, 11:00 am - Noon (CST)

Over the course of the seminar, our speakers will provide an overview of intimate partner violence dynamics; understanding the cycle of violence; working with survivors of domestic violence challenges; the pro bono opportunities available in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin to support survivors; and best practices in providing limited legal services.

Tue, Sep 5, 2023 7:59 AM

GENERAL ORDER 23-0033 - Eastern Division Clerks Office Closing Early on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 3:00 p.m

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT due to operational needs, the Clerk's Office for the Eastern Division and the Court will close early on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 3:00 p.m.

Tue, Aug 15, 2023 1:49 PM

DURBIN, DUCKWORTH ANNOUNCE SCREENING COMMITTEE, APPLICATION PROCESS FOR FEDERAL DISTRICT COURT
IN THE NORTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS
U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) announced yesterday that they will begin accepting applications from those interested in serving as a Federal District Court Judge in the Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division. The Senators will be assisted by a screening committee whose task is to review and vet District Court candidates and advise the Senators regarding the candidates' qualifications and fitness for the position.

Fri, Aug 4, 2023 4:33 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS, U.S.A. v. Mapes, 21 CR 345

The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in U.S.A. v. Mapes, scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m. on Monday August 7, 2023, in Courtroom 2125 and overflow Courtroom 1719 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Sat, Aug 12, 2023 6:00 AM

Court Welcomes District Judge Lindsay Jenkins in Ceremonial Investiture
On August 11, 2023, U.S. District Judge Lindsay Jenkins was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Thu, Aug 3, 2023 4:20 PM

District Court honors graduates of James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Reentry Program
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. (Court Help and Assistance Network for Community Entry) Reentry Program honored 10 individuals who have successfully completed the program in a graduation ceremony.

Tue, Aug 1, 2023 2:32 PM

Remembering the Honorable William T. Hart
Please Join Us in Remembering the Honorable William T. Hart

Thu, Aug 10, 2023 8:22 AM

Keri L. Holleb Hotaling Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois
In a private ceremony, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Keri L. Holleb Hotaling as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, Aug 9, 2023 8:18 AM

U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox to Retire from Bench on August 9, 2023
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox will retire from the bench effective August 9, 2023.

Sun, Jul 16, 2023 10:01 AM

Court Mourns the Death of Judge James B. Zagel
Chicago, Ill. – James B. Zagel, a United States District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, passed away last night at the age of 82 after a long illness. Judge Zagel was appointed to the court in 1987 and assumed senior status in 2016. During his nearly thirty years on the bench, he presided over thousands of cases with his trademark brilliance and unflappable demeanor.

Fri, Jul 14, 2023 4:57 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Nancy Maldonado in Ceremonial Investiture
On July 14, 2023, U.S. District Judge Nancy Maldonado was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Fri, Jun 30, 2023 2:13 PM

U.S. District Court selects Jeannice Williams Appenteng to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois
Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer announced today that the U.S. District Court has selected Jeannice Williams Appenteng to be the next United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, Jun 28, 2023 8:40 AM

Judge Jeremy C. Daniel Sworn in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
In a private ceremony today, Judge Virginia M. Kendall, who once supervised Jeremy C. Daniel when he served as her law clerk, swore Mr. Daniel in as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Fri, Jun 16, 2023 3:04 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer delivers annual “State of the Court” Address
On June 14, 2023, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer delivered the 2023 Annual State of the Court Address at a luncheon sponsored by the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

Fri, Jun 9, 2023 3:17 PM

The U.S. Probation Office for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL) is currently soliciting treatment providers for fiscal year 2024, beginning October 1, 2023.

We are looking for providers of substance abuse and mental health treatment services in Lake County and Will County, Illinois. These services will be procured using Blanket Purchase Agreements.

Thu, May 4, 2023 12:37 PM

District Court Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Supreme Court Case Reenactments and Special Naturalization Ceremony
In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee co-hosted “When Citizenship Depended on Race,” two Supreme Court case reenactments and a panel discussion.

Tue, May 2, 2023 12:04 PM

2023 EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE AWARD WINNERS

Photos from 2023 Pro Bono Awards Ceremony

Sun, Apr 30, 2023 7:20 AM

U.S. District Court selects Keri Holleb Hotaling to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois
Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer announced today that the U.S. District Court has selected Keri Holleb Hotaling to be the next United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois. Ms. Hotaling has been designated to fill the magistrate judge vacancy created when Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox retires on August 9, 2023.

Wed, Apr 12, 2023 12:35 PM

Court to Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with Case Reenactments and Discussion
On May 3, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is co-hosting “When Citizenship Depended on Race,” a case reenactment and discussion in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Tue, Apr 11, 2023 12:24 PM

Judge Jacqueline P. Cox voted Chief Bankruptcy Judge as outgoing Chief A. Benjamin Goldgar completes his appointment as Chief
The full Court of the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois voted to designate Judge Jacqueline P. Cox as Chief Bankruptcy Judge.

Fri, Mar 24, 2023 7:04 AM

Mon, Mar 20, 2023 9:15 AM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program beginning March 27, 2023 through April 17, 2023
Beginning March 27 through April 17, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be accepting recommendations from attorneys of record to the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program.

Thu, Mar 9, 2023 11:26 AM

Closing of West Sidewalk on State Street from Adams to Quincy Court
Chicago, Ill. – Late on March 8, 2023, the Court was advised that due to life safety concerns, the General Services Administration is required to close the west sidewalk on State Street from Adams to Quincy Court.

Mon, Mar 6, 2023 12:11 PM

Guidelines for Proceedings, U.S.A. v. McClain et al, 20 CR 812
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in U.S.A. v. McClain et al, scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

Mon, Feb 27, 2023 4:01 PM

Judge Lindsay C. Jenkins Sworn in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Today in a private ceremony, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Lindsay C. Jenkins as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Feb 21, 2023 3:30 PM

GUIDELINES FOR SENTENCING, U.S.A. v. Kelly et al, 19 CR 567

The following procedures will apply in connection with the sentencing in U.S.A. v. Kelly et al, scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 23, 2023, in Courtroom 1925, overflow Courtroom 2119, and Credentialed Media Overflow Courtroom 1944D at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Mon, Feb 13, 2023 10:36 AM

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Awards. Nominations are due by April 7, 2023.
The U.S. District Court, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the FBA, is seeking nominations.

Mon, Feb 13, 2023 9:58 AM

Lost and Found: Photos of Judges from the Court's Earliest Days
Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer unveils newly found photos of judges from the Northern District of Illinois. Guest speakers discuss the unique history of these Judges and their contributions to the Court.

Tue, Feb 7, 2023 3:48 PM

Roadways to the Bench: Who Me? A Bankruptcy or Magistrate Judge? Live-streamed panel conversations and in-person roundtable discussions.

www.tinyurl.com/Roadways2023

Wed, Feb 1, 2023 10:48 AM

Attorney Training/CLE Opportunity: Effective Settlement Advocacy: Pro Se Litigants' Settlement Assistance Program, February 21, 2023
This seminar qualifies you to participate in the Pro Se Litigants' SAP.

Thu, Jan 26, 2023 3:41 PM

Representing Prisoners in Civil Rights Litigation: Free Remote Seminars for Attorneys
On February 15, 2023, the Court will host a remote continuing legal education seminar, “Introduction to Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation,” via Zoom. A follow up seminar “Representing Prisoners in Medical Cases” will be held remotely on March 1, 2023, via Zoom.

Thu, Jan 19, 2023 5:59 AM

Statement of Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on the Passing of Senior District Judge William Thomas Hart

Judge William Thomas Hart of our court died on January 17, 2023, at the age of 93.

Fri, Jan 6, 2023 3:56 PM

47 Naval Recruits from 23 Countries Sworn in as New Citizens at Naval Station Great Lakes
On January 5, 2023, 47 Naval recruits from 23 countries were sworn in as new U.S. citizens at Naval Station Great Lakes. 45 of the 47 will graduate from basic training on January 6, 2023.

Tue, Jan 3, 2023 2:31 PM

U.S. Magistrate Young B. Kim selected as Chief Magistrate Judge as Judge Sheila M. Finnegan steps down from Chief role
Today Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced that U.S. Magistrate Judge Young B. Kim has been appointed as Chief Magistrate Judge.

Wed, Dec 7, 2022 4:50 PM

1,984 Citizenship Candidates Sworn in at Wintrust Arena in District Court's Largest Ever Naturalization Ceremony
Chicago, Ill. - Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted its largest ever citizenship ceremony at Wintrust Arena, home of the Chicago Sky and DePaul Basketball. 1,984 citizens from 120 countries were sworn in as new U.S. Citizens.

Mon, Dec 5, 2022 12:58 PM

Statement of Chief Judge Pallmeyer on District Judge Feinerman's Resignation from the District Court Bench

District Judge Gary Feinerman has announced that he will be returning to the practice of law and has submitted a letter to the President, resigning his commission effective December 31, 2022.

Fri, Nov 18, 2022 9:04 AM

Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 24 and 25, 2022
Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 24 and 25, 2022

Tue, Oct 25, 2022 3:45 PM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Now Accepting Applications for the Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge, Chicago Duty Station
CHICAGO, Ill.- Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that the U.S. District Court will now be accepting applications for the position of U.S. Magistrate Judge, Chicago duty station.

Mon, Oct 24, 2022 2:16 PM

66 Citizenship Candidates Sworn in at Chicago Botanic Garden
Today Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer administered the Oath of Allegiance to 66 candidates from 26 countries at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Wed, Oct 19, 2022 3:14 PM

304 New American Citizens Take Oath at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
Today at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 304 individuals from 69 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens at a special naturalization ceremony.

Wed, Oct 5, 2022 10:46 AM

Unidos for a Stronger Judiciary: District Court to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be livestreaming “Unidos for a Stronger Judiciary: Building a Foundation of Inclusivity for the Hispanic/Latinx Pipeline to the Bench and Bar.”

Tue, Oct 4, 2022 11:34 AM

On 38th Anniversary of his Judicial Commission, Judge Norgle Retires
Chicago, Ill.- District Judge Charles Ronald Norgle, Sr., took inactive senior status effective October 4, 2022. Judge Norgle has served as a U.S. District Judge since 1984.

Tue, Oct 4, 2022 5:33 AM

Statement of Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on Appointment of Judge Robert M. Dow, Jr., to Counselor to Chief Justice of United States Supreme Court
Judge Robert Dow of our Court has been named as Counselor to Chief Justice John Roberts, effective on December 5, 2022.

Mon, Oct 3, 2022 4:28 PM

Judge Nancy L. Maldonado Sworn in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Today in a private ceremony, Judge Matthew F. Kennelly swore in Nancy L. Maldonado as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Sep 20, 2022 3:31 PM

63 Citizenship Candidates Sworn in at Illinois' 12th Annual U.S. Constitution & Citizenship Day Celebration at Daley Plaza
Chicago, Ill. - Today Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer administered the Oath of Allegiance to 63 candidates from 31 countries at Illinois' 12th Annual U.S. Constitution & Citizenship Day Celebration hosted by the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State.

Thu, Sep 15, 2022 12:57 PM

60 New Citizens Sworn in at Cantigny Park for Special Constitution Day and Citizenship Day Ceremony
Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a naturalization ceremony at Cantigny Park.

Tue, Sep 13, 2022 8:28 AM

Free CLE Opportunity for Attorneys: The Basics of Intimate Partner Violence for Attorneys
Providing pro bono assistance in the Shadow Pandemic

Fri, Aug 5, 2022 2:27 PM

Guidelines for Proceedings - U.S.A. v. Kelly et al., 19 CR 567
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in U.S.A. v. Kelly et al, scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 15, 2022, in Courtroom 2525, overflow Courtroom 1719, and Conference Room 2343 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Tue, Aug 2, 2022 11:36 AM

651 New Citizens Sworn in at Wrigley Field in District Court's Largest Ever Naturalization Ceremony
On July 28, 2022, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted its largest ever naturalization ceremony at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. 651 candidates from 91 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens.

Tue, Jul 5, 2022 8:58 AM

Guidelines for Proceedings - U.S.A. v. Smith et al, 19 CR 669
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in U.S.A. v. Smith et al, scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 7, 2022, in Courtroom 2525 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Thu, Jun 30, 2022 4:47 PM

137 Individuals Sworn in as New U.S. Citizens at College of DuPage's McAninch Arts Center

Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and 137 new citizens from 38 countries for a naturalization ceremony at the College of DuPage (COD), the largest community college in Illinois.

Wed, Jun 15, 2022 3:24 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer delivers annual “State of the Court” Address
On June 15, 2022, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer delivered the annual State of the Court Address at a brown bag luncheon sponsored by the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

Thu, Jun 2, 2022 2:32 PM

2022 Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Award Winners
The United States District Court's Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

Tue, May 24, 2022 5:32 AM

Free remote CLE opportunity for attorneys: “Introduction to Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation” on June 21, 2022. Follow up seminar, “Representing Prisoners in Medical Cases,” on June 28, 2022.
Lawyers recently appointed by the Court to represent a prisoner and those interested in accepting appointments are strongly encouraged to virtually attend this special seminar.

Fri, May 20, 2022 12:04 PM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Clerk of Court's Office, U.S. Marshals, FBI Urge Public to Report Phone Scams
The Clerk of Court's Office for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations are alerting the public of several imposter scams targeting residents of the Northern District of Illinois.

Fri, May 13, 2022 10:16 AM

TWENTY-SECOND ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE IN 2022 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 2022, AT 2:00 P.M.
The United States District Court's Twenty-second Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 1, 2022, in the James Benton Parsons Ceremonial Courtroom (2525) of the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse at 219 South Dearborn Street in Chicago, Illinois.

Thu, May 12, 2022 10:02 AM

The U.S. Probation Office for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL) is currently soliciting treatment providers for fiscal year 2023, beginning October 1, 2022.
We are looking for providers of substance abuse, mental health and sex offender treatment services. These services will be procured using Blanket Purchase Agreements.

Thu, May 12, 2022 7:20 AM

The P. Michael Mahoney Chapter of the Federal Bar Association and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Present: People Who Care After 20 Years: Looking Back at the Landmark Rockford School Desegregation Case
Free 3 hour CLE opportunity: Join us for a lively discussion of this important school desegregation case with the lead attorneys for both sides and Judge P. Michael Mahoney, who presided over the remedial phase of the litigation.

Mon, Apr 11, 2022 2:39 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Franklin U. Valderrama in Ceremonial Investiture
On April 8, 2022, U.S. District Judge Franklin U. Valderrama was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Mon, Mar 21, 2022 9:09 AM

Beginning March 28 through April 18, 2022, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be accepting recommendations from attorneys of record to the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program.

Please click here to apply.

Thu, Mar 17, 2022 9:29 AM

246 New American Citizens Take Oath at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center
Rockford, Ill. – Today at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 246 individuals from 46 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens. Today's ceremony was the largest naturalization ceremony to take place in the Northern District of Illinois' Western Division.

Tue, Mar 1, 2022 6:58 AM

484 New American Citizens Take Oath at Northwestern's Welsh-Ryan Arena
In a first-of-its-kind naturalization ceremony, Northwestern University hosted the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the new citizens, and their families.

Thu, Feb 10, 2022 3:50 PM

District Court Honors Graduates of the Judge Rubén Castillo Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) Program
Collaborative initiative of U.S. District Court, U.S. Pretrial Services, Federal Defender Program and U.S. Attorney's Office graduates 7 federal pretrial defendants

Fri, Feb 4, 2022 10:26 AM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS - U.S. v. Patrick D. Thompson, 21 CR 279
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled trial in United States of America. v. Patrick D. Thompson, scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, February 7, 2022, in Courtroom 2541 and overflow Courtroom 2525 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse.

Mon, Jan 31, 2022 2:49 PM

472 New American Citizens Take Oath at Auditorium Theater
Today at the Auditorium Theater, 472 individuals from 82 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens. In a first-of-its-kind naturalization ceremony, the Auditorium Theater, “the Theater for the People,” hosted the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the new citizens, and their families.

Fri, Jan 7, 2022 2:51 PM

Beginning Wednesday, January 12, 2022, U.S. District Court, SHIELD Illinois, and Chicago Department of Public Health to Host SHIELD Community Testing Site at Dirksen U.S. Courthouse
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in partnership with SHIELD Illinois and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), will be hosting a free COVID-19 community testing site in the lobby of the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse beginning Wednesday, January 12, 2022.

Thu, Jan 6, 2022 2:44 PM

Court to Host Two Attorney Seminars on Representing Prisoners

On January 27, 2022, the federal district courts in Illinois will host a remote continuing legal education seminar, “Introduction to Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation.” A follow up seminar “Representing Prisoners in Medical Cases” will be held remotely on February 3, 2022.

Thu, Dec 16, 2021 12:15 PM

Chicago High School Senior Wins U.S. Courts' Bill of Rights Day Essay Contest
Chicago high school senior Collin Kenyon won the 2^nd Annual Bill of Rights Day Essay Contest in the 9^th-12^th age group.

Mon, Dec 20, 2021 9:53 AM

FREE COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTER CLINIC, Dirksen U.S. Courthouse - Chicago

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED. Friday, December 10 through Thursday, December 23, 2021, Open From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Daily

Tue, Nov 23, 2021 7:25 AM

Order Regarding 2021 Court of Appeals and District Court Holiday Closures
Order Regarding 2021 Court of Appeals and District Court Holiday Closures

Tue, Nov 9, 2021 4:48 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS, U.S. v. Mack, et al - 17 CR 518
The following procedures will apply in connection with the hearing in United States of America. v. Mack, et al, scheduled to commence at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, in Courtroom 2525 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Fri, Oct 8, 2021 2:59 PM

Wed, Sep 29, 2021 1:12 PM

The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit is accepting applications from all qualified applicants for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Illinois.
The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit is accepting applications from all qualified applicants for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Illinois. This position is headquartered in East St. Louis, Illinois. This is a four year appointment at the current salary of $172,500. The Federal Public Defender provides criminal defense services to those who cannot afford counsel. See 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(A).

Tue, Sep 14, 2021 2:11 PM

2020-2021 Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Award Winners

On September 9, 2021, winners were recognized in a ceremony at Dirksen Courthouse.

Wed, Sep 8, 2021 6:58 PM

District Court honors graduates of James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Reentry Program

Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot delivers keynote address

Wed, Sep 8, 2021 10:03 AM

9/29/21 Attorney CLE Opportunity - Navigating Pandemic Complexities in Representing Domestic Violence Survivors: Pro Bono Best Practices
Sponsored by the U.S. District Court for the N.D. Illinois, Chicago Bar Association, Seventh Circuit Bar Association Pro Bono & Public Service Committee

Mon, Aug 30, 2021 8:58 AM

2021 Proposed Revisions to the Pattern Criminal Jury Instructions
The Seventh Circuit Pattern Criminal Jury Instruction Committee submits the attached proposed new and revised criminal pattern jury instructions for public comment.

Thu, Aug 5, 2021 11:57 AM

District Court, ABA Host First Annual Honorable John F. Grady Teachers Institute in Honor of Late Judge
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, along with the American Bar Association (ABA), hosted the first annual Honorable John F. Grady Teachers Institute on July 29 and August 5, 2021.

Tue, Aug 3, 2021 1:24 PM

COVID-19 Vaccination to be Required for Employees of U.S. District Court and U.S. Bankruptcy Court for Northern District of Illinois
Consistent with President Biden's recent directive, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer has announced that all employees and contractors of the U.S. District Court and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be required to be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.

Tue, Jul 20, 2021 4:21 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer delivers annual “State of the Court” Address
In her first in-person State of the Court since becoming Chief Judge, Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer, delivered the State of the Court Address at a brown bag lunch sponsored by the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

Fri, Jul 16, 2021 12:28 PM

Twenty-First Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service in 2020 & 2021 on Thursday, September 9, 2021, at 2:00 P.M. - Request for Nominations
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than August 1, 2021 for attorneys who have provided outstanding pro bono and public interest representation in civil and criminal matters before this Court.

Wed, Jul 14, 2021 3:34 PM

Roszkowski Courthouse Hosts First Naturalization Ceremonies Since Pandemic Began
Today for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois conducted naturalization ceremonies at the Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse.

Fri, Jul 2, 2021 3:24 PM

172 New American Citizens Take Oath at Wrigley Field

In a first-of-its-kind Independence Day weekend naturalization ceremony, Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, hosted the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the new citizens, and their families.

Thu, Jul 1, 2021 7:47 AM

Appointment of Magistrate Judge Paul E. Singleton to 14-year term as U.S. Bankruptcy Judge for U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana
Chief Judge Diane S. Sykes of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit is pleased to announce the appointment of the Honorable Paul E. Singleton, St. Joseph Superior Court Magistrate Judge, to a 14-year term as Bankruptcy Judge for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.

Mon, Jun 28, 2021 3:50 PM

U.S. District Court and IDPH to Host Free, Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at Dirksen U.S. Courthouse
The United States District for the Northern District of Illinois, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), will be hosting a free COVID-19 vaccination clinic in the lobby of the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse beginning Tuesday, June 29, 2021. Vaccines will be available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Tue, Jun 1, 2021 3:04 PM

Remote Seminars on Prisoner Civil Rights
The Court will present two remote seminars:
1) Introduction to Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation; and
2) Medical Claims, the most numerous and challenging of prisoner civil rights
litigation case

Thu, May 13, 2021 3:35 PM

Court Announces Winners of First Law Day Youth Civics Contest
Thank you to all Northern District of Illinois students who participated in our first Law Day Youth Civics Contest. We are moved by the creative, analytical, and inspiring submissions that demonstrated understanding of the role of courts in our society. We look forward to seeing the contributions these students will make in a world that needs their enthusiasm and talents,” said Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer.

Thu, May 6, 2021 7:29 AM

Magistrate Judges Valdez and Cole Each Reappointed to Eight-Year Term
Chief Judge Pallmeyer announced that effective today U.S. Magistrate Judges Maria Valdez and Jeffrey Cole were each reappointed to a new eight-year term of service.

Tue, Apr 20, 2021 3:06 PM

Senators Durbin and Duckworth Announce Screening Committee, Application Process for U.S. Marshal for N.D. of Illinois
U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth announced that they will begin accepting applications from those interested in serving as U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Mar 30, 2021 11:19 AM

Court's New Law Day Youth Civics Contest Underway - Submissions will be accepted through April 12, 2021
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) have announced a new Law Day Youth Civics Contest.

Thu, Mar 25, 2021 12:36 PM

Bernese Mountain Dogs Offer Comfort at Dirksen Courthouse
Junebug and Birdie are two trained therapy dogs that have been working in the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse for several years.

Wed, Mar 24, 2021 2:07 PM

Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program will be accepting applications
U.S. District Court for the ILND., Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the SOAR program beginning March 29, 2021 through April 29, 2021, click here to apply.

Mon, Mar 15, 2021 2:23 PM

Statement of Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer On the Passing of Retired District Judge John A. Nordberg
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced that retired District Judge John A. Nordberg passed away on March 12, 2021, at age 94.

Mon, Mar 22, 2021 5:00 AM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program beginning March 29, 2021 through April 19, 2021
Beginning March 29 through April 19, 2021, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations from attorneys of record to the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program.

Tue, Feb 16, 2021 4:11 PM

Court Announces New Law Day Youth Civics Contest
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) have announced a new Law Day Youth Civics Contest.

Fri, Feb 12, 2021 3:13 PM

Notice to Attorneys Assigned to Represent Prisoners in their Pro Se Civil Rights Cases
The court will present two remote seminars: 1) introduction to prisoner civil rights litigation; and 2) medical claims, the most numerous and challenging of prisoner civil rights litigation cases

Thu, Feb 11, 2021 12:50 PM

Margaret J. Schneider Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, Western Division
In a private ceremony, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Margaret J. Schneider as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Mon, Jan 11, 2021 1:37 PM

Pro Se Litigants' Settlement Assistance Program
This free program will provide an overview of the U.S. District Court, N.D. Illinois, Pro Se Litigants' Settlement Assistance Program. Speakers will discuss best practices for settlement including efficient case preparation, effective communication and client management strategies, and lessons from the bench on effective settlement advocacy.

Mon, Jan 11, 2021 12:29 PM

District Court Adopts Mechanism to Protect Highly Sensitive Documents
Last week, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AO) notified all federal courts that the AO has initiated an investigation of an apparent compromise of the security of the Judiciary's Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) system.

Tue, Jan 5, 2021 9:14 AM

Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan Becomes Presiding Magistrate Judge for U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Effective January 1, 2021, Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan assumed her new role of Presiding Magistrate Judge as Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox finished her term in that position.

Thu, Dec 31, 2020 12:56 PM

Court closed on December 31, 2020
Court closed on December 31, 2020

Wed, Dec 30, 2020 10:49 AM

District Court Resumes Naturalization Ceremonies
On Dec. 28, 2020, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois resumed naturalization ceremonies at Dirksen Courthouse with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

Mon, Dec 14, 2020 9:43 AM

Court Announces Finalists in Student Bill of Rights Contest
Today the court announced three students from the Northern District of Illinois who were selected as finalists in the first Bill of Rights Contest hosted by the U.S. Courts for the 7th and 8th Circuits.

Mon, Dec 14, 2020 5:13 AM

Amendments to the Federal Rules of Practice and Procedure, Effective December 1, 2020
Amendments to the Federal Rules Effective December 1, 2020

Wed, Dec 9, 2020 12:33 PM

Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan selected as Presiding Magistrate Judge as Judge Susan E. Cox steps down

Today Chief Judge Pallmeyer announced that U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan has been selected as Presiding Magistrate Judge when Susan E. Cox finishes her term in that position.

Mon, Dec 7, 2020 4:51 PM

The Honorable Judge John F. Grady Memorial
The Honorable Judge John F. Grady Memorial

Thu, Dec 3, 2020 9:51 AM

Judge Joan Humphrey Lefkow is working to make the bench a safer place
To watch the WGN news report,

Tue, Nov 17, 2020 5:06 PM

Order Regarding 2020 Court of Appeals and District Court Holiday Closures
Order Regarding Court Calendar During 2020 Year-End Holidays

Thu, Nov 12, 2020 5:28 PM

Notice of Partial Temporary Suspension of In-court Proceedings
In the last several days, there have been marked increases in the numbers of positive COVID-19 test results and hospitalizations in the Northern District of Illinois. Yesterday and earlier today, Illinois Governor Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lightfoot responded by issuing advisories and recommendations for restrictions on travel and in-person gatherings. As you have seen in many recent letters from me, our court is not immune from the Coronavirus. A number of employees, visitors, and security personnel have tested positive.

Thu, Nov 12, 2020 9:51 AM

Attorney Seminar Focusing Exclusively on Medical Claims
To all attorneys assigned to represent prisoners in their pro se civil rights cases with medical claims: the court will present a remote seminar that will focus exclusively on medical claims, the most numerous and challenging of prisoner civil rights litigation cases

Tue, Nov 10, 2020 2:54 PM

Reappointment Notice for Magistrate Judge Cole
The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Cole will expire on May 5, 2021.

Mon, Nov 9, 2020 11:09 AM

“A Court at the Heart of America” Nominated for Chicago Emmy
Documentary Film Explores Impact of Illinois Federal Courts on Nation

Tue, Nov 10, 2020 9:22 AM

Reappointment Notice for Magistrate Judge Valdez
The current term of office of United States Magistrate Maria Valdez will expire on May 19, 2021.

Sun, Nov 8, 2020 2:22 PM

Abbreviated Petition for New Illinois Attorneys through January 15, 2021
Abbreviated Petition for New Illinois Attorneys through January 15, 2021

Mon, Oct 26, 2020 1:35 PM

Court History Seminar: Chicago Seven Trial 50 Years Later
A Conversation with Trial Prosecutor Richard Schultz- The Court recently sponsored, along with the Federal Bar Association and the Seventh Circuit Bar Association, a recorded interview of Richard Schultz, one of the prosecutors in the Chicago 7 trial. The link to that interview is on the Court's website. The trial was controversial when it took place over 50 years ago, and remains controversial today. In posting a link to the video on its website, the Court is not endorsing the views of any of the trial participants. Many of the defendants and defense counsel have written and spoken about the case over the years since the trial took place. Mr. Schultz has not done so to any great degree up until now, and his perspective adds to our understanding of this chapter in this Court's long and storied history.

Thu, Oct 22, 2020 10:24 AM

Statement on the Passing of News Legend Joel Daly
Along with many throughout the Chicago area, the court mourns the loss of legendary Chicago journalist Joel Daly.

Tue, Oct 13, 2020 12:42 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's October 13, 2020 letter regarding the Dirksen Courthouse

This morning, I learned that a litigant who was last in the Dirksen Courthouse on October 7, 2020 received a positive result today for the COVID-19 virus. The litigant was on the 14th and 24th floors of the Courthouse for a hearing.

Tue, Oct 6, 2020 1:22 PM

Bill of Rights Student Contest Announced!
During the month of October, the United States Courts of Appeals along with the United States District Courts for the Seventh and Eighth Circuits are hosting a Bill of Rights contest and we want you and your family to be a part of it! School aged children (K-12) in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are invited to submit an essay, poem, video, photograph, song, or piece of art on the importance of the Bill of Rights. Students should be as creative as they like! Full details can be found here.

Wed, Sep 30, 2020 6:49 AM

Judge Iain D. Johnston Sworn in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Today in a private ceremony Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore Iain D. Johnston as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, Western Division

Tue, Sep 29, 2020 9:39 AM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's September 29, 2020 letter regarding the Dirksen Courthouse

This morning, I learned that an employee who was last in the Dirksen Courthouse on September 24, 2020 has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. During the week of September 21, 2020, the employee worked on the 23rd and 25th floors.

Mon, Sep 28, 2020 12:43 PM

Judge Franklin U. Valderrama Sworn in as District Judge

Today in a private ceremony Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Franklin U. Valderrama as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Mon, Sep 21, 2020 11:55 AM

Statement of Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer On the Passing of Judge Blanche M. Manning

Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced that Judge Blanche M. Manning passed away on September 20, 2020.

Thu, Sep 17, 2020 4:24 PM

Senate Confirms Judges Iain D. Johnston and Judge Franklin U. Valderrama as U.S. District Judges
This afternoon the U.S. Senate confirmed Judge Iain D. Johnston and Judge Franklin U. Valderrama as U.S. District Judges for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, Sep 16, 2020 1:30 PM

9/30 CLE Opportunity: Immigration Lawyer's Toolbox in Representing Survivors of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault

This free virtual seminar will offer attorneys an overview of the tools available in representing immigrant survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. The program will cover the fundamentals of remedies under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and through U-Visas and T-Visas.

Fri, Sep 11, 2020 1:56 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's September 11, 2020 letter regarding the Dirksen Courthouse

This afternoon, we learned that a visitor who was in the Dirksen Courthouse on two recent occasions has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. On Thursday, September 3, 2020, the individual visited the 4th and 25th floors of the Courthouse. On Tuesday, September 8, 2020, the individual visited the 4th, 5th and 27th floors of the Courthouse.

Thu, Sep 10, 2020 12:33 PM

Academic study found district's jury plan revisions have increased representation of African-American & Hispanic citizens
A new academic study found that the district's jury plan revisions between 2009 and 2015 have had an impact in increasing the diversity of the district's jury pool.

Wed, Sep 9, 2020 12:45 PM

Court selects Margaret Schneider as Mag. Judge upon confirmation of Judge Johnston as Dist. Judge
Chief Judge Pallmeyer announced Court selected Margaret Schneider as next Magistrate Judge for W. Division if Magistrate Judge Johnston is confirmed as Dist. Judge by Senate

Wed, Sep 2, 2020 9:21 AM

Attorney Seminar - Introduction to Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation - Sept. 17, 2020
Free and offered via Zoom

Monday, Aug 17, 2020 9:00 AM

Advisory Committees on Appellate, Bankruptcy, Civ., and Crim. Rules have proposed rules
Public Comment Sought - August 14, 2020 - February 16, 2021

Tuesday, Aug 4, 2020 7:41 PM

District Court Hosts First Naturalization Ceremony Since Mid-March
On Wednesday, August 5, 2020, the U.S. District Court will resume hosting naturalization ceremonies at Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago with additional health and safety precautions in place.

Tuesday, Aug 4, 2020 3:42 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer Appoints Racial Justice Diversity Committee
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that she has appointed a Racial Justice Diversity Committee for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 1:40 AM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's July 29, 2020 letter regarding the Dirksen Courthouse

We learned this morning that one of our Court Security Officers has tested positive for COVID-19. That Officer has not been assigned to screen visitors in the lobby.

Fri, Jul 10, 2020 9:13 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's July 10, 2020 letter regarding the Dirksen Courthouse

Yesterday, a defendant who was present on the 21st floor of the Dirksen Courthouse later
tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Those individuals that were present for the hearing with
the defendant have been contacted

Fri, Jun 26, 2020 7:40 PM

New PACER Website
Check out PACER's newly redesigned, informational and resource website

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 1:33 PM

Summary of Northern District of Illinois Jury Trial Plan

This memorandum summarizes the Northern District of Illinois' plan for conducting jury trials during the ongoing pandemic.

Wed, Jun 10, 2020 3:53 PM

Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer Delivers Her First State of the Court Virtually
On June 10, 2020, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer delivered her first State of the Court remarks in a webinar sponsored by the Federal Bar Association, Chicago Chapter.

Fri, Jun 5, 2020 10:46 PM

Roszkowski Courthouse

COVID-19 Precautions

Click Here

Fri, Jun 5, 2020 10:32 PM

Dirksen Courthouse

COVID-19 Precautions

Click Here

Thu, May 28, 2020 2:40 PM

Courthouse Order Requires Face Masks to be Worn in Public Areas of Courthouses
Chief Judge Pallmeyer issued In Re: Coronavirus COVID-19 Public Emergency Order Concerning Face Masks/Coverings in Public Areas of Courthouses.

Mon, May 25, 2020 12:02 PM

Chief Judge Pallmeyer's May 25, 2020 Video Message to the Bar
Chief Judge Pallmeyer's Video Message May 25, 2020 to the Bar. Click here for video. For a written copy of Chief Judge Pallmeyer's video message. Read More

Wed, May 20, 2020 8:37 AM

U.S. District Court Celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage month, District Judge Edmond E. Chang offers a 14-minute video presentation highlighting the role of William Marutani in landmark Supreme Court case.

Fri, May 1, 2020 7:00 AM

Heather McShain Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge
In a private virtual ceremony, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Heather McShain as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Apr 28, 2020 3:04 PM

U.S. Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier to Retire on April 30, 2020
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier will retire from the bench effective April 30, 2020.

Tue, Mar 31, 2020 4:13 PM

Court Now Accepting Applications for Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge, Rockford Duty Station
Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that the U.S. District Court, in light of the CO-VID 19 pandemic, has extended the application period for a U.S. Magistrate Judge, Rockford duty station.

Mon, Mar 23, 2020 1:39 PM

Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program will be accepting applications
U.S. District Court for the ILND., Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the SOAR program beginning March 30, 2020 through April 20, 2020, click here to apply.

Mon, Mar 16, 2020 2:26 PM

U.S. Dist. Court N.D. Ill. Issues Amended General Order Regarding COVID-19 Response
Today Chief U.S. District Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer issued Amended Gen. Order 20-0012, providing direction for the operations of the ILND because of recent changes in the guidance issued by the public health experts.

Thu, Mar 12, 2020 7:00 PM

GEN. ORDER 20-0012-IN RE: CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 PUBLIC EMERGENCY
NOW, in order to protect public health, and in order to reduce the size of public gatherings and reduce unnecessary travel, the U.S. District Court for the ILND. hereby issues the following order effective immediately:

Wed, Mar 4, 2020 3:24 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS United States of America v. Kelly, et al.

The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled hearing in United States of America. v. Kelly, et al., scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2020.

Tue, Mar 3, 2020 1:10 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Steven C. Seeger in Ceremonial Investiture
On February 21, 2020, U.S. District Judge Steven C. Seeger was sworn in as a district judge at a ceremonial investiture.

Fri, Feb 28, 2020 2:44 PM

Judge John F. Kness Sworn in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court
Chicago, Ill. - On February 28, 2020, in a private ceremony, Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in John F. Kness as U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Feb 25, 2020 3:08 PM

(March 12) Free "Anatomy of a Prisoner Civil Rights Case" Attorney Seminar with Lunch
THE COURT URGES YOU TO ATTEND “ANATOMY OF A PRISONER CIVIL RIGHTS CASE”

Thu, Feb 13, 2020 4:16 PM

District Court Honors Graduates of the Judge Castillo SOAR Program
Collaborative initiative of U.S. District Court, U.S. Pretrial Services, Federal Defender Program and U.S. Attorney's Office graduates five federal pretrial defendants

Wed, Feb 12, 2020 4:24 PM

U.S. Senate Confirms Nomination of John F. Kness as U.S. District Judge
On February 12, 2020, the United States Senate confirmed the nomination of John F. Kness as U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, Feb 12, 2020 9:44 AM

Beth W. Jantz Sworn in as U.S. Magistrate Judge
In a private ceremony today Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer swore in Beth W. Jantz as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Feb 11, 2020 9:48 AM

President Announces Intent to Nominate Judges Johnston and Valderrama to U.S. Dist. Court
On Feb. 5, 2020, the President announced his intent to nominate U.S. Mag. Judge Iain D. Johnston, ILND, and Assoc. Circuit Judge Franklin U. Valderrama, Cir. Court of Cook Co., to serve as U.S. Dist. Court Judges

Mon, Feb 3, 2020 9:44 AM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS United States of America v. Arroyo, 19 CR 805

The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled arraignment in United States of America v. Arroyo, 19 CR 805...

Tue, Jan 28, 2020 8:40 AM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS United States of America v. Sandoval
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled hearing in U.S. v. Sandoval...

Sun, Jan 26, 2020 12:00 AM

Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox selected as presiding magistrate judge
On January 26, 2020, U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox assumed her new role as presiding magistrate judge as Judge Maria Valdez's term came to an end.

Thu, Jan 16, 2020 9:45 AM

New Media Credentials Requirement at Dirksen Courthouse
Beginning March 2, 2020, members of the media will be asked to provide valid credentials in order to access media areas such as the designated media space in the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse lobby or media seating during high profile cases.

Tue, Dec 31, 2019 8:26 AM

Judge A. Benjamin Goldgar voted Chief Bankruptcy Judge

The Executive Committee of the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois voted to designate Judge A. Benjamin Goldgar as Chief Bankruptcy Judge.

Thu, Dec 12, 2019 2:49 PM

Court Closed for Christmas and New Year's Holidays - Dec 24 and Dec 25, and Jan 1
In addition to the federal holidays on Wednesday, Dec 25, 2019 and Wednesday, Jan 1, 2020, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed on Tuesday

Tue, Dec 10, 2019 4:29 PM

District Court Opens American Dreams Playroom for Families Attending Naturalization
In a special ribbon-cutting ceremony officiated by Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Thu, Dec 5, 2019 8:59 AM

United States District Judge John F. Grady Passed Away at Age of 90
CHICAGO, Ill.- Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer announced today that John F. Grady, who heard cases for 39 years as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois,

Tue, Dec 3, 2019 4:16 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS 18 CR 278 United States of America v. Godinez
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled sentencing in United States of America v. Godinez, scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Tue, Dec 3, 2019 10:10 AM

Statement of Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on the Passing of Judge Manuel Barbosa
Retired U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Manuel “Manny” Barbosa, age 72, died on Monday, November 25, 2019, following a brief illness.

Mon, Dec 2, 2019 3:09 PM

Court Welcomes District Judge Mary M. Rowland in Ceremonial Investiture
Chicago, Ill. – On November 25, 2019, U.S. District Judge Mary M. Rowland was sworn in as district judge

Mon, Dec 2, 2019 9:15 AM

Proposed Revision to the Seventh Circuit Criminal Jury Instructions 18 U.S.C. 922(g)
The Seventh Circuit Pattern Criminal Jury Instruction Committee submits the attached proposed revised criminal pattern jury instructions for 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)

Mon, Nov 25, 2019 1:28 PM

Court Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 28 and 29, 2019
Court Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 28 and 29, 2019

Fri, Nov 22, 2019 3:18 PM

U.S. District Court select Beth Jantz and Heather McShain to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge
U.S. District Court select Beth Jantz and Heather McShain to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Fri, Nov 22, 2019 9:16 AM

Free CLE Seminar: Effective Settlement Advocacy, and Training
Free CLE Seminar: Effective Settlement Advocacy, and Training for the Settlement Assistance Program

Fri, Nov 15, 2019 10:29 AM

Free CLE Seminar: A Chilling Spectacle: Greylord, Gambat
Free CLE Seminar: A Chilling Spectacle: Greylord, Gambat, & the Unmasking of Judicial Corruption

Thu, Nov 7, 2019 3:57 PM

(November 19) Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with Lunch
THE COURT URGES YOU TO ATTEND “ANATOMY OF A PRISONER CIVIL RIGHTS CASE” AND/OR “MEDICAL CLAIMS,” SPECIAL SEMINARS DESIGNED TO ASSIST RECENTLY-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS AND ALL ATTORNEYS WITH AN INTEREST IN SUCH CASES.

Mon, Oct 28, 2019 4:21 PM

"Pathway to the Judiciary" Panel - Oct. 29, 2019. Register here.
Federal and state judges discuss their unique paths to the bench.

Mon, Oct 28, 2019 3:18 PM

(Updated) GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS: United States of America v. Kelly, et al.
The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled hearing in United States of America. v. Kelly, et al., scheduled to commence at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2019, in Courtroom 1941 at the Dirksen United States Courthouse located at 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois.

Tue, Oct 22, 2019 6:24 AM

U.S. District Court in Rockford Commemorates 35th Anniversary of a Full-time District Judge with Ceremony and Portrait Dedication
In a special ceremony on October 18, 2019, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois celebrated the 35th anniversary of a full-time district judge in the court's Western Division.

Tue, Oct 22, 2019 5:47 AM

City of Chicago Unveils “The Hon. Milton I. Shadur Way” on West Adams
City of Chicago Unveils “The Hon. Milton I. Shadur Way” on West Adams

Mon, Oct 7, 2019 9:08 AM

Oct. 11 - Symposium to Commemorate the Bicentennial of the Federal District Court in Chicago (Opportunity to Earn 4 hours IL General MCLE)

The Northern District of Illinois Court Historical Association and Chicago-Kent College of Law are sponsoring “A Symposium to Commemorate the Bicentennial of the Federal District Court in Chicago” on Friday, October 11, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Thu, Oct 3, 2019 4:40 PM

Combined Notices of Hearings on October 22, 2019 - United States Department of the Interior Office of Hearings and Appeals

Thu, Oct 3, 2019 4:39 PM

Combined Notices of Hearings on October 21, 2019 - United States Department of the Interior Office of Hearings and Appeals

Wed, Oct 2, 2019 1:22 PM

INTERVIEW OF JUDGE CHARLES P. KOCORAS BY JOHN KOCORAS ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 from CourtMedia, LLC

INTERVIEW OF JUDGE CHARLES P. KOCORAS BY JOHN KOCORAS ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Wed, Sep 25, 2019 9:54 AM

Chicago's WTTW11 to Air "A Court at the Heart of America"

Documentary Film Explores Illinois Federal Courts' Impact on Nation

Tue, Sep 24, 2019 2:25 PM

Judge Matthew F. Kennelly Appointed to Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation

U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly has been named to the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) by Chief Justice John Roberts.

Mon, Sep 23, 2019 1:55 PM

October 24, 2019: Roadways to Bench. Judicial panel to reflect on their diverse journeys to the federal bench. Register here. Open to law students and attorneys.

Judicial panel to reflect on their diverse journeys to the federal bench.

Tue, Sep 17, 2019 1:16 PM

Judge Steven C. Seeger Sworn-in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

In a private ceremony, Judge Steven C. Seeger was sworn-in as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Sep 17, 2019 7:00 AM

Steven C. Seeger's Nomination for District Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

On September 11, 2019, the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of Steven C. Seeger as district judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, Sep 10, 2019 6:34 AM

Former Chief Judge Rubén Castillo to Retire on September 27, 2019

Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer announced today that District Judge Rubén Castillo will retire from the bench effective September 27, 2019.

Tue, Sep 3, 2019 5:00 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS - United States of America v. Kelly, et al.

Mon, Aug 26, 2019 3:59 PM

NIU Receives Grant To Continue Prisoners' Rights Project (Northern Public Radio)

NIU Receives Grant To Continue Prisoners' Rights Project

Mon, Aug 26, 2019 9:00 AM

Judge Martha M. Pacold Sworn-in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Thu, Aug 22, 2019 8:26 PM

Judge Mary M. Rowland Sworn-in as District Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Wed, Aug 21, 2019 5:18 PM

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Now Accepting Applications for the Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge

Tue, Aug 20, 2019 8:37 AM

NIU Law's Prisoners' Rights Project Awarded Grant as Program Assisting Incarcerated Plaintiffs Enters Second School Year

Tue, Aug 13, 2019 8:39 AM

Bicentennial Event: Reflections from the Bench at the Court at the Heart of America: Judicial Interview Series with District Judge Charles P. Kocoras. September 19.

As the court celebrates its 200th anniversary, Judge Charles P. Kocoras, who has served on the court for nearly 40 years and as the court’s Chief Judge from 2002 to 2006, will reflect on his life and career. The interview will be conducted by his son John Kocoras, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.

Mon, Aug 5, 2019 9:33 AM

Magistrate Judge Mary M. Rowland's and Martha Pacold's Nominations as Judges of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

Thu, Aug 1, 2019 4:03 PM

District Court Welcomes Teachers Participating in Federal Courts Summer Institute

Fri, Jul 26, 2019 3:18 PM

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with Lunch and MCLE Credit

Mon, Jul 15, 2019 2:21 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS - United States of America v. Kelly, et al.

Mon, Jul 15, 2019 2:12 PM

Amanda Garcia Sworn in as New Chief of U.S. Pretrial Services

Mon, Jul 1, 2019 7:19 AM

Northern District of Illinois Welcomes Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer as Chief Judge

Thu, Jun 27, 2019 3:20 PM

INTERVIEW OF JUDGE WILLIAM J. BAUER BY JUDGE CHARLES P. KOCORAS ON JUNE 13, 2019. from CourtMedia, LLC on Vimeo, click here.

INTERVIEW OF JUDGE WILLIAM J. BAUER BY JUDGE CHARLES P. KOCORAS ON JUNE 13, 2019. from CourtMedia, LLC on Vimeo, click here.

Wed, Jun 26, 2019 11:01 AM

Chief Judge Castillo's 2019 State of the Court Presentation

Wed, Jun 26, 2019 7:37 AM

Chief Judge Castillo Delivered His Final State of the Court Remarks

Tue, Jun 25, 2019 11:26 AM

Amanda Garcia Selected as New Chief of U.S. Pretrial Services

Mon, Jun 24, 2019 3:52 PM

Court Hosts Bicentennial History Lecture on Immigration Law and the Bold Decisions of Judges from the Northern District of Illinois, 1907-1940

Mon, Jun 24, 2019 3:46 PM

Chief Judge Castillo honored at Hispanic Lawyers Association Gala

Wed, Jun 19, 2019 10:14 AM

District Court Hosts “Helping Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Seek Justice”

Mon, Jun 17, 2019 1:27 PM

June 26 - Free CLE seminar - Changing the Landscape: Public Impact Litigation in the N.D. Ill.

June 26 - Free CLE seminar - Changing the Landscape: Public Impact Litigation in the N.D. Ill.

Mon, Jun 17, 2019 1:08 PM

Court Hosts “Reflections from the Court at the Heart of America: Judicial Oral History Project” with an Interview with Judge Bauer

Mon, Jun 3, 2019 3:23 PM

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS 19 CR 322, United States of America v. Burke et al., June 4, 2019

Mon, Jun 3, 2019 10:08 AM

Gabriel Fuentes Sworn-in as U.S. Magistrate Judge

Wed, May 29, 2019 4:30 PM

Guidelines for Proceedings 09 CR 383 United States of America v. Jesus Vicente Zambada-Niebla, et al., May 30, 2019

Tue, May 28, 2019 2:43 PM

Twentieth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Award Winners

Tue, May 28, 2019 2:33 PM

Free Attorney Professionalism CLE Seminar - Practical Mentoring Strategies

Mon, May 20, 2019 1:19 PM

June 13 - Bicentennial Event - Interview with U.S. Circuit Judge William J. Bauer: Reflections on a Six-Decade Career in Public Service in the Law

June 13 - Bicentennial Event - Interview with U.S. Circuit Judge William J. Bauer: Reflections on a Six-Decade Career in Public Service in the Law

Tue, May 14, 2019 2:19 PM

SOLD OUT Free Attorney Seminar (June 12, 2019): Helping Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Seek Justice

Tue, May 14, 2019 1:23 PM

General Order 19-0018 - Eastern Division Closing Early on Monday, May 20, 2019, at 2:30pm

Fri, May 10, 2019 8:22 AM

The U.S. Probation Office for the Northern District of Illinois is currently soliciting treatment providers for fiscal year 2020, beginning October 1, 2019.

Wed, May 8, 2019 3:36 PM

June 18, 2019 - Bicentennial Presentation: “It Would Be Inhumane and Cruel:” A Brief History of Immigration Law and the Bold Decisions of Judges from the Northern District of Illinois, 1907-1940, a talk by Professor Felice Batlan

Wed, May 8, 2019 11:40 AM

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois recently amended Local Rule (LR 5.8) regarding Filing Materials under Seal.

Mon, Apr 29, 2019 2:01 PM

District Court Participates in National “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day 2019”

Mon, Apr 22, 2019 1:40 PM

TWENTIETH ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE AWARD CEREMONY TO BE HELD ON MAY 1, 2019 AT 1:00 PM

Thu, Apr 18, 2019 8:54 AM

Click here to view a video of an interview with Judge Aspen that was held as part of our 200th anniversary celebration in March.

Click here to view a video of an interview with Judge Aspen that was held as part of our 200th anniversary celebration in March.

Mon, Apr 15, 2019 1:43 PM

Lisa Jensen Sworn-in as Magistrate Judge for Western Division

Wed, Apr 10, 2019 3:32 PM

Chief Judge Castillo Speaks on Chicago State University Panel Addressing Criminal Law, Justice, Social Equity

Wed, Apr 10, 2019 3:19 PM

Court Hosts Bicentennial Lecture by Professor Alison LaCroix, “Rivers of Commerce: The Illinois Federal Courts as the Umpires of Antebellum Union”

Wed, Mar 27, 2019 9:28 AM

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with Lunch and MCLE Credit

Tue, Mar 26, 2019 7:11 AM

Guidelines for Proceedings United States of America v. Floyd E. Brown, March 28, 2019

Mon, Mar 25, 2019 2:22 PM

Chief Judge Castillo shares his story with high school sophomores at Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan

Mon, Mar 25, 2019 11:11 AM

Chief U.S. Pretrial Services Officer Ann Marie Carey to Retire

Wed, Mar 20, 2019 5:52 PM

District Court Hosts "Judicial Firsts: Trailblazers on the Federal Bench"

Wed, Mar 20, 2019 1:00 PM

Statement of Chief Judge Rubén Castillo On the Passing of Retired District Judge George W. Lindberg

Tue, Mar 19, 2019 2:20 PM

Chief Judge Castillo Delivers “Pope & John Lecture” at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law

Tue, Mar 19, 2019 9:36 AM

Guidelines for Proceedings United States of America v. Floyd E. Brown, March 20, 2019

Tue, Mar 19, 2019 9:20 AM

Bicentennial Event (March 20) - Free Diversity & Inclusion Seminar - Judicial Firsts: Trailblazers on the Federal Bench

Bicentennial Event (March 20) - Free Diversity & Inclusion Seminar - Judicial Firsts: Trailblazers on the Federal Bench

Thu, Mar 14, 2019 4:34 PM

Northern District of Illinois Senior U.S. Probation Officer Bobbie Jo Pruitt Receives National Probation Officer of the Year Award and Great Lakes Regional Line Officer of the Year Award

Thu, Mar 14, 2019 2:01 PM

Chief Judge Castillo to speak at “The Pope & John Lecture Series on Professionalism” at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law

Thu, Mar 14, 2019 1:40 PM

Chief Judge Castillo announces he will step down as Chief Judge, making way for Judge Pallmeyer, the district’s first female Chief Judge

Tue, Mar 12, 2019 4:52 PM

April 9 Bicentennial Presentation - “Rivers of Commerce: The Illinois Federal Courts as the Umpires of Antebellum Union”

Mon, Mar 11, 2019 9:38 AM

Guidelines For Proceedings United States of America v. Floyd E. Brown, March 11, 2019

Thu, Mar 7, 2019 10:13 AM

Public Statement By Chief Judge Rubén Castillo On The Occasion Of The Court's 200th Anniversary Celebration

Mon, Mar 4, 2019 4:22 PM

Bicentennial Program - Judicial Firsts: Trailblazers on the Federal Bench (March 20, 2019)

Mon, Mar 4, 2019 2:57 PM

Northern District of Illinois Kicks Off Bicentennial Anniversary with Two Special Events

Mon, Mar 4, 2019 10:44 AM

Twentieth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service on Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at 1:00 P.M. - Request for Nominations

Mon, Mar 4, 2019 9:38 AM

Court Launches "Reflections from the Court at the Heart of America: Judicial Oral History Project" with an Interview with Judge Aspen

Wed, Feb 27, 2019 2:32 PM

U.S. District Court selects Gabriel Fuentes to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Thu, Feb 7, 2019 10:44 AM

District Court Honors Graduates of Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Re-entry Program

Wed, Feb 13, 2019 4:23 PM

Bicentennial Celebration: March 1, 2019, 3:00 p.m.
A Court at the Heart of America: 200th Anniversary of Federal Courts in Illinois

Bicentennial Celebration: March 1, 2019, 3:00 p.m.

A Court at the Heart of America: 200th Anniversary of Federal Courts in Illinois

Mon, Feb 11, 2019 8:29 AM

Save the Date: February 27, 3 p.m. Reflections from the Court at the Heart of America: Judicial Oral History Project. An Interview with Judge Marvin E. Aspen. A Judge Who Shaped the Court, the City, & the Nation.

Wed, Feb 6, 2019 1:21 PM

Jeffrey Cummings Sworn-in as U.S. Magistrate Judge

Mon, Feb 4, 2019 11:20 AM

Judge Durkin Swears-in Congressman Sean Casten

Mon, Feb 4, 2019 11:18 AM

Court Hosts “#MeToo in the Law” Panel

Tue, Jan 29, 2019 3:22 PM

U.S. District Court selects Lisa Jensen to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, Western Division

Tue, Jan 22, 2019 5:28 PM

**UPDATED January 22, 2019** Statement on Lapse in Appropriations

Mon, Jan 14, 2019 12:47 PM

Save the Date: March 1, 2019 - 200th Anniversary of Federal Courts in Illinois

Mon, Jan 14, 2019 12:07 PM

Chief Judge Castillo Swears-in Congresswoman Lauren Underwood

Fri, Jan 11, 2019 1:38 PM

Sunil Harjani Sworn-in as U.S. Magistrate Judge

Today Chief Judge Rubén Castillo swore-in Sunil R. Harjani as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois in a private ceremony.

Thu, Jan 10, 2019 5:28 PM

District Court Honors Graduates of Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) Program

Wed, Jan 9, 2019 10:28 AM

The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for a bankruptcy judge position for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois with duty station in Chicago.

Tue, Jan 8, 2019 2:10 PM

Amended General Order 18.0028 Holding In Abeyance Civil Matters Involving the United States As a Party

Tue, Jan 8, 2019 12:23 PM

The employees of the Eastern and Western Division Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on January 9, 2019, therefore

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will open late on Wednesday, January 9, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. Filings may be deposited in the drop boxes located in the lobby of the Courthouse. In case of emergency, a message may be left at (312) 702-8875 or Emergency_Judge@ilnd.uscomts.gov.

Mon, Jan 7, 2019 1:49 PM

Chief Judge Castillo Swears-in New Officers of Puerto Rican Bar Association

Mon, Jan 7, 2019 10:01 AM

Chief Judge Castillo Swears-in Congressman Chuy Garcia

Tue, Dec 11, 2018 6:33 PM

Court Honors Judge Daniel G. Martin in Memorial Ceremony and Special Court History Museum Exhibit

Thu, Dec 6, 2018 9:46 AM

Amendments to the Federal Rules of Practice and Procedure

Mon, Dec 3, 2018 4:03 PM

Marcus Holmes sworn-in as new Chief U.S. Probation Officer for the Northern District of Illinois

Mon, Dec 3, 2018 1:47 PM

Christmas and New Year Holiday Closure

Mon, Dec 3, 2018 1:39 PM

December 5, 2018: National Day of Mourning Closure

Wed, Nov 14, 2018 2:12 PM

Free Labor & Employment Seminar at Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse on December 6

Mon, Nov 5, 2018 4:02 PM

Judge George N. Leighton Laid to Rest at Arlington National Cemetery

Mon, Nov 5, 2018 11:02 AM

Court Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 22 and 23, 2018

Thu, Oct 25, 2018 2:45 PM

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with Lunch and MCLE Credit

Wed, Oct 24, 2018 4:44 PM

District Court Now Accepting Applications for Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge

Wed, Oct 24, 2018 2:50 PM

Chief Judge Castillo Joins Chicago Faith Leaders in Conversation about Criminal Justice Reform

Tue, Oct 23, 2018 7:24 AM

Order Providing Further Instructions for Fairness Hearing in Case No. 17-cv-6260, State of Illinois v. City of Chicago to be Held on October 24, 2018 and October 25, 2018

Wed, Oct 17, 2018 11:37 AM

District Court Hosted Inaugural “State of Latinos in the Law Symposium”

Thu, Oct 11, 2018 3:06 PM

STATEMENT OF CHIEF JUDGE CASTILLO ON THE PASSING OF MAGISTRATE JUDGE DANIEL G. MARTIN

Fri, Oct 5, 2018 6:07 PM

Court Honors Judge George N. Leighton in Memorial Ceremony, Court History Museum Exhibit

Fri, Oct 5, 2018 1:51 PM

Court to Host "State of Latinos in the Law" Symposium on October 12

Fri, Sep 28, 2018 11:43 AM

U.S. District Court select Jeffrey Cummings and Sunil Harjani to serve as U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Thu, Sep 20, 2018 12:01 PM

The Committee on Federal Criminal Jury Instructions of the Seventh Circuit is pleased to announce that is has updated the pattern criminal jury instructions.

Wed, Sep 19, 2018 12:52 PM

Chief Judge Castillo administers oath and welcomes new citizens at Constitution Day Celebration

Mon, Sep 17, 2018 11:58 AM

Chief Judge Castillo swears-in new Federal Bar Association President at Annual Convention

Fri, Sep 14, 2018 1:43 PM

Court Now Accepting Applications for Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge, Rockford Duty Station

Fri, Sep 14, 2018 1:38 PM

Court Now Accepting Applications for Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge, Chicago Duty Station

Fri, Sep 7, 2018 9:55 AM

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will close on Monday, September 10, 2018, from 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. and on Monday, September 17,2018 from 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Filings may be deposited in the drop boxes located in the lobby of the Courthouse. In case of emergency, a message may be left at (312) 702-8875 or Emergency_Judge@ilnd.uscourts.gov.

Wed, Aug 15, 2018 9:39 AM

THE COURT URGES YOU TO ATTEND “ANATOMY OF A PRISONER CIVIL RIGHTS CASE” (A WONDERFUL INTRODUCTION)-AND/OR “MEDICAL CLAIMS,” SPECIAL SEMINARS DESIGNED TO ASSIST RECENTLY ASSIGNED ATTORNEYS IN THESE INTERESTING BUT OFTEN CHALLENGING CASES AND ALL ATTORNEYS WITH AN INTEREST IN SUCH CASES.

Wed, Aug 15, 2018 9:05 AM

Preliminary Draft of Proposed Amendments to the Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, and Civil Procedure, and the Federal Rules of Evidence, Comment Period closes February 15, 2019

Preliminary Draft of Proposed Amendments to the Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, and Civil Procedure, and the Federal Rules of Evidence, Comment Period closes February 15, 2019

Wed, Jul 25, 2018 7:52 AM

Chief Judge Castillo and Judge Ellis reflect upon Court’s re-entry program with Loyola students, faculty

Wed, Jul 18, 2018 11:16 AM

Chief Judge Castillo partakes in ceremony to unveil new Lake County Courthouse Tower

Wed, Jul 11, 2018 10:48 AM

2018 State of the Court PowerPoint Presentation

Wed, Jul 11, 2018 3:21 PM

Chief Judge Castillo delivers annual “State of the Court” Address

Fri, Jun 29, 2018 11:00 AM

NIU College of Law and FBA launch Prisoners' Rights Project to aid inmates with civil rights lawsuits in Western Division

Wed, Jun 20, 2018

Chief Judge Castillo Delivers Keynote Address at 9th Circuit Corrections Conference

Wed, Jun 20, 2018

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation Seminar and Ethics Training at Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse

Wed, Jun 13, 2018

SCAM ALERT: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Clerk of Court’s Office Urges Public to Report Phone Scams

The Clerk of Court’s Office for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI are alerting the public of several imposter scams targeting residents of the Northern District of Illinois involving individuals claiming to be officers of the court, U.S. Marshals, or other law enforcement officials. During these calls, scammers attempt to collect a fine in lieu of arrest for failing to report for jury duty or other offenses.

Thu, Jun 7, 2018

STATEMENT OF CHIEF JUDGE CASTILLO ON THE PASSING OF RETIRED DISTRICT JUDGE GEORGE N. LEIGHTON

Today our Court mourns the loss of a beloved colleague, outstanding jurist, and a civil rights giant.

Wed, May 30, 2018

Court History Museum Hosts Inaugural Lecture Featuring Attorney Frank Cicero, Jr.

Wed, May 23, 2018

District Court Hosts 200 CPS High School Students and Teachers in Courtroom as a Classroom Program

Wed, May 23, 2018

Report of the Advisory Committee to the Northern District of Illinois on Mandatory Initial Discovery Pilot Project: Survey Results

Thu, May 10, 2018

District Court Honors First Class of Graduates of Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) Program

Collaborative initiative of U.S. District Court, U.S. Pretrial Services, Federal Defender Program and U.S. Attorney’s Office graduates five federal pretrial defendants

Wed, May 9, 2018

Court History Museum Presents Inaugural Lecture on May 17: Meet the Author, Frank Cicero, Jr., "Creating the Land of Lincoln"

Inaugural lecture by Frank Cicero

Tue, May 8, 2018

Nineteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Award Winners

Mon, May 7, 2018

Chicago Sun-Times on Opening of Court History Museum

Chicago Sun-Times on Opening of Court History Museum

Tue, May 1, 2018

U.S. District Court Opens Court’s First Museum and History Center in Dirksen U.S. Courthouse

Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois opened its new museum and history center in the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Tue, May 1, 2018

Court Welcomes High Schoolers Participating in Illinois Youth Summit

On April 27, 2018, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted students from eleven area high schools participating in the Illinois Youth Summit. U.S. District Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer personally welcomed the students and their teachers to the District Court.

Mon, Mar 25, 2019 12:00 AM

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, will be accepting recommendations for the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program beginning April 1 through April 22, 2019. Click HERE for the recommendation form.

Wed, Apr 18, 2018

Court welcomes Gage Park High students participating in William J. Hibbler Schoolhouse to Courthouse Program

On April 18, 2018, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois welcomed high school students from Gage Park High School

Wed, Apr 18, 2018

Chief Judge Offers Remarks in Panel, “Redesigning the System: How Artists, Policymakers, and Practitioners are Shaping Criminal Justice Reform”

Chief Judge Offers Remarks in Panel, “Redesigning the System: How Artists, Policymakers, and Practitioners are Shaping Criminal Justice Reform”

Wed, Jun 13, 2018

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Now Accepting Applications for the Position of U.S. Magistrate Judge

Mon, Apr 16, 2018

United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation Notice of Hearing Session: May 31, 2018

Mon, Apr 16, 2018

NINETEENTH ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE

Fri, Apr 13, 2018

District Court Hosts “May It Please the Court” Women as Lead Trial Lawyers Symposium

Tue, Apr 10, 2018

Complimentary webcast CLE reviewing data analytics’ practical applications in the discovery context sponsored by the Seventh Circuit Pilot Program on Electronic Discovery on April 11, 2018 from 12 pm – 1:30 pm CT.

Mon, Apr 9, 2018

Chief Judge Castillo Delivers Keynote Address at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Latino Law Students Association Banquet

On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, Chief Judge Rubén Castillo delivered the keynote address at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Latino Law Students Association (LLSA) Banquet.

Wed, Mar 21, 2018

Court Welcomes Chicago Legal Prep Sophomores Competing in Mock Trial Competition

Wed, Mar 14, 2018

District Court Hosts Panel on Voting Rights of People in Criminal Justice System

Today the U.S. District Court hosted “Voting Behind Bars,” a panel discussion on the critical topic of the restoration of the voting rights of people who have gone through the criminal justice system.

Tue, Mar 20, 2018

Statement of Chief Judge Rubén Castillo On the Passing of Senior District Judge Paul Edmund Plunkett

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that Senior District Judge Paul Edmund Plunkett passed away at age 82.

Mon, Mar 12, 2018

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo's (Stash House Cases) Memorandum Opinion and Order in U.S. v. Brown, et al. (12 CR 632) and U.S. v. Williams, et al. (12 CR 887), issued March 12, 2018

Wed, Mar 7, 2018

Court to host “May it Please the Court:” Symposium on Women Lawyers in the Courtroom on April 12

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be hosting a complimentary symposium, “May it Please the Court:” Symposium on Women Lawyers in the Courtroom.

Wed, Mar 7, 2018

District Court hosts Northern Illinois University law students in Courtroom as Classroom Program

Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted more than thirty first year law students from Northern Illinois University College of Law at an annual “Courtroom as Classroom” program aimed at introducing future attorneys to federal court practice and procedures.

Mon, Feb 26, 2018

William J. Hibbler Memorial Pro Se Assistance Program Help Desk Needs Attorney Volunteers

Wed, Feb 21, 2018

Judge Frederick J. Kapala to assume senior status effective May 10, 2019

Tue, Feb 20, 2018

District Court hosts Chicago Public Schools sophomores participating in mock trial competition

CHICAGO, Ill. ‐ On Friday, February 16, 2017, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted sophomore students from six Chicago Public Schools (CPS) high schools with Prelaw programs, who competed in an annual Sophomore Mock Trial Competition.

Mon, Feb 5, 2018

TO ALL ATTORNEYS, ESPECIALLY THOSE RECENTLY ASSIGNED TO REPRESENT PRISONERS IN THEIR PRO SE CIVIL RIGHTS CASES:
THE COURT URGES YOU TO ATTEND “ANATOMY OF A PRISONER CIVIL RIGHTS CASE” (A WONDERFUL INTRODUCTION)-AND/OR “MEDICAL CLAIMS,” SPECIAL SEMINARS DESIGNED TO ASSIST RECENTLY ASSIGNED ATTORNEYS IN THESE INTERESTING BUT OFTEN CHALLENGING CASES AND ALL ATTORNEYS WITH AN INTEREST IN SUCH CASES.

Mon, Feb 5, 2018

District Court Sits En Banc for Special Ceremonial Session: Induction, Investiture and Installation Ceremony of U.S. Attorney John R. Lausch, Jr.

Sitting en banc, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois held a special ceremonial session for the induction, investiture, and installation of United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, John R. Lausch, Jr.

Fri, Feb 2, 2018

Nineteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at 1:00 P.M. - Request for Nominations

Wed, Jan 31, 2018

Chief Judge Castillo Welcomes Attorneys and Community Members to Courthouse for Panel on Voting Rights

Noting the importance of elections to the courts and the historically significant voting rights cases that have been litigated in this court, Chief Judge Rubén Castillo welcomed to the courthouse attorneys and community members participating in a multi-part continuing legal education series on voting rights.

Tue, Jan 16, 2018

Statement of Chief Judge Rubén Castillo on the Passing of District Judge Milton I. Shadur

Fri, Jan 12, 2018

Durbin, Duckworth Announce Screening Committee Application Process For Federal District Court In The Northern District Of Illinois

Fri, Jan 12, 2018

FOR APPOINTMENT OF NEW MAGISTRATE JUDGES UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS (TWO POSITIONS) (Available January 2019 and March 2019)

The United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois is seeking qualified applicants for two full-time positions for United States Magistrate Judge for its Court in East St. Louis, Illinois

Wed, Jan 10, 2018

Early Closing on Friday, January 19, 2018 at 3:00p.m.

Fri, Dec 22, 2017

Chief Judge Castillo Welcomes Illinois High Schoolers Participating in “We the People” State Finals

Chicago, Ill. - On December 8, 2017, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted the 29^th Annual Illinois State Finals of We the People State Hearings at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse.

Mon, Dec 18, 2017

After Distinguished Career, Judge Der-Yeghiayan to Retire

Chicago, Ill.-Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that United States District Judge Samuel Der-Yeghiayan will fully retire as of February 17, 2018.

Mon, Dec 4, 2017

Courts Closed on December 25th and December 26th, 2017

Courts Closed for Christmas Holiday - December 25 and 26, 2017

Mon, Dec 18, 2017

Chief Judge Castillo Welcomes High Schoolers Participating in Equal Justice Under Law Program

On December 8, 2017, the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted students from twelve area high schools participating in the Equal Justice Under Law program.

Wed, Dec 6, 2017

Judge Dow Welcomes Naperville Central High Schoolers to District Court

On December 4, 2017, Judge Robert M. Dow Jr. welcomed Naperville Central High juniors and seniors to the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse.

Mon, Dec 4, 2017

District Court Honors Graduates of Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Re-entry Program and New Veterans Treatment Court

Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois honored five graduates of the James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. (Court Help and Assistance Network for Community Entry) Program and six veterans who successfully completed the terms of their diversion agreement in the court’s new Veterans Treatment Court in a ceremony.

Fri, Dec 1, 2017

Chief Judge Castillo Presides over Historic Swearing-In of Three Magistrate Judges

Mon, Nov 20, 2017

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo Shares His Story with Hamline Elementary Sixth Graders

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo welcomed 79 sixth graders from John H. Hamline Elementary School in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood.

Wed, Nov 15, 2017

Magistrate Judges Sheila Finnegan, Jeffrey T. Gilbert, and Young B. Kim Each Reappointed to Eight Year Term

CHICAGO, Ill - Chief Judge Ruben Castillo announced today that United States Magistrate Judges Sheila Finnegan, Jeffrey T. Gilbert, and Young B. Kim were each reappointed to a new eight year term of service as United States Magistrate Judges.

Mon, Nov 6, 2017

Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 23 and 24, 2017

Tue, Oct 31, 2017

General Order 17-0018 - Late Opening November 3 2017 Eastern and Western Divisions

Fri, Oct 27, 2017

Court Welcomes Fourth Graders from Francis Xavier Warde School

Tue, Oct 24, 2017

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar November 8 - MCLE Credit

Wed, Oct 18, 2017

Electronic docket in CM/ECF will now include internet citations in judicial opinions

Wed, Oct 11, 2017

Judge Joan Humphrey Lefkow and Chief Judge Rubén Castillo receive prestigious 2017 Justice John Paul Stevens Award

Tue, Sep 26, 2017

Chief Judge Castillo and Presiding Magistrate Judge Valdez Deliver Remarks on History and Cases Surrounding Voting Rights Act

Wed, Sep 20, 2017

7th Circuit Bar Association- FREE CLE Sept. 25

Join us for a historical discussion of the Voting Rights Act, with a
focus on litigation in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals

Wed, Aug 30, 2017

French Law Students and Professors Visit Courthouse to Learn about Judicial System in U.S.

Wed, Aug 2, 2017

Magistrate Judge Merit Review Panel to consider reappointments of three Magistrate Judges

Tue, Aug 1, 2017

After distinguished career on federal bench, Judge Shadur retires

Chicago, Ill. – Today Chief United States District Judge Rubén Castillo announced that after 37 years, United States District Judge Milton I. Shadur will retire as of September 1, 2017.

Thu, Jul 20, 2017

U.S. Marshals Service and Courthouse Family Remember Fallen Heroes on 25th Anniversary of Their Sacrifice

CHICAGO, Ill. – Today at noon U.S. Marshals, Court Security Officers, members of the courthouse family, and family of the fallen gathered at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse to remember Deputy U.S. Marshal Roy Frakes and Court Security Officer/Special Deputy Marshal Harry Belluomini...

Mon, 26 June 2017

Seminar Opportunity - Reaching Settlement: Prisoner Litigation, Settlement Techniques, and the Settlement Assistance Program

Mon, 26 June 2017

Court Closing on Monday, July 3, 2017 and Tuesday, July 4, 2017, in Observance of the Independance Day Holiday.

In order to celebrate our freedoms and have more time with family and friends, the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed on Monday, July 3, and Tuesday, July 4, 2017, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Any matter previously set for July 3, 2017, will be continued to July 5, 2017, or to another date set by the judge presiding in the matter.

Fri, 23 June 2017

District Court honors Hon. John W. Darrah in memorial ceremony

CHICAGO, Ill. - In a moving ceremony, judges, former colleagues, friends and family members honored the life of Judge John “Jack” Darrah and his impact on the court. Judge Darrah passed away on March 23, 2017.

Mon, 19 June 2017

Chief Judge Castillo Delivers Commencement Address at Legal Prep Charter Academy

District Court Honors Four Graduates of Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Re-entry Program

Tue, 13 June 2017

District Judge Kendall grants motion ending federal oversight of Cook County Jail

CHICAGO-Ill.- On Friday, June 9, 2017, District Judge Virginia M. Kendall ruled that the Sheriff of Cook County and the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC) were in compliance with a 2010 consent order, granting a motion to dismiss the Sheriff of Cook County and CCDOC from a 2010 civil lawsuit and subsequent consent order, effectively ending federal oversight of CCDOC.

Fri, 9 June 2017

District Court Honors Four Graduates of Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Re-entry Program

Thu, 25 May 2017

Eighteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

Mon, 22 May 2017

District Court for Northern District of Illinois participates in Mandatory Initial Discovery Pilot Project

Chicago, Ill. - Beginning on June 1, 2017, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be participating in a three-year pilot program, known as the “Mandatory Initial Discovery Pilot Project,” ..

Mon, 15 May 2017

EIGHTEENTH ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Eighteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 24, 2017, in..

Thu, 4 May 2017

Judges offer personal reflections, advice to CPS high schoolers in Courtroom as Classroom Program

Today the U.S. District Court from the Northern District of Illinois hosted a “Courtroom as Classroom” program for over 80 Chicago Public Schools high schoolers from Jones College Prep High School and Al Raby High School of Chicago Public Schools.

Fri, 28 April 2017

Reappointment of Incumbent U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey T. Gilbert

The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Jeffrey T. Gilbert will expire on May 6, 2018.

Fri, 28 April 2017

Reappointment of Incumbent U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan

The current term of office of United States Magistrate Sheila M. Finnegan will expire on April 25, 2018.

Fri, 28 April 2017

Reappointment of Incumbent U.S. Magistrate Judge Young B. Kim

The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Young B. Kim will expire on May 6, 2018.

Fri, 28 April 2017

District Court Welcomes Staff Attorneys from State of Illinois Circuit Court of Cook County

Thu, 27 April 2017

Judge Kocoras welcomes 57 high schoolers from Kalamazoo, Michigan

Chicago, Ill. - Today Judge Charles T. Kocoras welcomed 57 high schoolers from Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The students traveled to the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago to meet with different facets and offices of the federal government. Judge Korcoras answered questions about the law and courts.

Thu, 27 April 2017

Mandatory Initial Discovery Pilot Program Workshop/Free CLE opportunity

Wed, 26 April 2017

Court welcomes Chicago Legal Prep high schoolers participating in William J. Hibbler Schoolhouse to Courthouse Program

Chicago, Ill. – Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois welcomed high school students from Legal Prep Charter Academy in Chicago’s Austin Neighborhood as part of the Sixth Annual William J. Hibbler Schoolhouse to Courthouse Program.

Tue, 25 April 2017

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS 15 CR 620 U.S.A. vs. Byrd-Bennett et al.

The following media guidelines will apply in connection with the sentencing hearing in U.S.A. v.Byrd-Bennett, et al., 15 CR 620, scheduled to commence at 1 p.m. on April 28, 2017, in Courtroom 2119.

Fri, 31 March 2017

Court adopts new procedure regarding deposit of interpleader funds

Chicago, Ill.‐ Beginning April 1, 2017, new procedures are effective when a party to a case moves to deposit funds in the court registry pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Section 1335.

Thu, 23 March 2017

STATEMENT OF CHIEF JUDGE RUBÉN CASTILLO ON THE PASSING OF DISTRICT JUDGE JOHN W. DARRAH

Judge John Darrah passed away today. Judge Darrah, who was appointed to the Court by President Bill Clinton in 2000, was 78 years old.

Wed, 22 March 2017

Chicago Cubs Worlds Series Trophy travels to court

March 22, 2017 – The 2016 Chicago Cubs World Series Trophy traveled to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division. Early this morning and prior to all court sessions, members of the court’s bench and court staff had the opportunity to view and take photos with the trophy, also known as the Commissioner’s Trophy. Photo by Ralph Greenslade.

Mon, 20 March 2017

District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Hosts Seminar Aimed at Creating Representative Juries

Chicago, Ill.- On February 23, 2017, the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted the State and Federal Jury Representation Seminar for judges, clerks of court, law clerks, court administrators, jury administrators and jury coordinators from federal and state courts throughout Illinois.

Fri, 17 March 2017

Trial Bar members urged to renew by April 17, 2017 deadline

Chicago, Ill.- The full court for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois recently approved changes to Local Rules, which now include a provision requiring the court’s Trial Bar members to renew their Trial Bar membership every three years.

Mon, 6 March 2017

Court hosts Northern Illinois University law students in Courtroom as Classroom Program

Chicago, Ill. - The District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted more than twenty first year law students from Northern Illinois University College of Law at an annual “Courtroom as Classroom” program aimed at introducing future attorneys to federal court practice and procedures.

Mon, 6 March 2017

Revamped court website to debut on March 8, 2017

Chicago, Ill. - On March 8, 2017, the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will unveil a fresher version of its website:

Thu, 2 March 2017

After distinguished career on federal bench, Judge Darrah assumes senior status

Chicago, Ill.- District Judge John Darrah took senior status effective March 1, 2017. Judge Darrah served as a federal district judge since July 14, 2000.

Mon, 27 February 2017

Court Hosts Seminar Aimed at Creating Representative Juries

Thu, 16 February 2017

2017 MAGISTRATE JUDGE MERIT REVIEW PANEL APPOINTED

CHICAGO - Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that he appointed a Magistrate Judge Merit Review Panel to consider the reappointment of United States Magistrate Judge Michael T. Mason, whose term will expire on September 28, 2017.

Mon, 30 January 2017

Second C.H.A.N.C.E. participants volunteer with Greater Chicago Food Depository

CHICAGO, Ill. - On January 26, 2017, participants in the court’s James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Program and members of their program team volunteered with the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD).

Mon, 30 January 2017

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with MCLE Credit Feb 8 2017

THE COURT URGES YOU TO ATTEND “ANATOMY OF A PRISONER CIVIL RIGHTS CASE” (A WONDERFUL INTRODUCTION)-AND/OR “PREPARATION FOR TRIAL AND TRIAL” TWO SPECIAL SEMINARS DESIGNED TO ASSIST ASSIGNED ATTORNEYS IN THESE INTERESTING BUT OFTEN CHALLENGING CASES AND ALL ATTORNEYS WITH AN INTEREST IN SUCH CASES.

Wed, 25 January 2017

District Court hosts Chicago Public Schools sophomores participating in mock trial

CHICAGO, Ill. - On Friday, January 20, 2017, the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted sophomore students from six Chicago Public Schools (CPS) high schools with Pre-law programs, who competed in an annual Sophomore Mock Trial Competition.

Thu, 5 January 2017

LaShonda A. Hunt to begin term as Bankruptcy Judge for Northern District of Illinois

On January 6, 2017, LaShonda A. Hunt will begin her 14-year term as Bankruptcy Judge for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern of District of Illinois, filling the vacancy created by Chief Judge Bruce Black’s retirement.

Thu, 5 January 2017

Judge Pamela Hollis voted Chief Bankruptcy Judge as outgoing Chief Judge Bruce Black retires

The Executive Committee of the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois voted to designate Judge Pamela Hollis as Chief Bankruptcy Judge for a period of four years, ..

Thu, 5 January 2017

New Process of Attorney's to Order Certificates of Good Standing and Duplicate Certificates of Admission

Members of the General and Trial Bar:

The District Court for the Northern District of Illinois is pleased to announce that we have now streamlined the process to order a Certificate of Good Standing and a Duplicate Certificate of Admission.

Tue, 20 December 2016

Closing early, at 3:00 p.m., on Friday, December 23, 2016, in observance of the Christmas holiday.

Closed on Monday, December 26, 2016, in observance of the Christmas holiday.

Closing early, at 3:00 p.m., on Friday, December 30, 2016, in observance of the New Year holiday.

Closed on Monday, January 2, 2017, in observance of the New Year holiday.

Mon, 12 December 2016

Court Welcomes High Schoolers Participating in Equal Justice Under Law Program

Mon, 12 December 2016

General Order 16-0024 - Clerks Office Closing Early on December 16 2016

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will close early on Friday, December 16, 2016 at 3:30 p.m.

Mon, 12 December 2016

General Order 16-0025 - Western Division Clerks Office Closing Early on December 19 2016

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will close early on Monday, December 19, 2016, at 3:45 p.m.

Wed, 7 December 2016

Court Welcomes Illinois High Schoolers Participating in “We the People” Hearings

Fri, 2 December 2016

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will transition all of its registry accounts from East West Bank to the Court Registry Investment System (CRIS). This transition will take place during the month of December.

The Court will no longer have the availability to accept or disburse funds via wire transfers for any registry account. If you have any questions concerning CRIS, please contact the Clerk's Office Financial Office at 312 435 6066 or via email at FISCAL_ILND@ilnd.uscourts.gov.

Thu, 1 December 2016

Congress has taken no action on the amendments to the Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, Civil, and Criminal Procedure, adopted by the Supreme Court and transmitted to Congress on April 28, 2016. Accordingly, the amendments to the rules referenced in the link below take effect on December 1, 2016.

Thu, 1 December 2016

REAPPOINTMENT OF INCUMBENT U.S. MAGISTRATE JUDGE

The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Michael T. Mason will expire on September 28, 2017

Wed, 9 November 2016

Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 24 and 25, 2016

Wed, 9 November 2016

Please take notice that the Judicial Conference of the United States has approved inflationary adjustments to District Court fees. These changes will become effective December 1, 2016. Click HERE to view the changes to the Fee Schedule.

Tue, 25 October 2016

George Leighton, pioneering African-American judge, lawyer turns 104 - Chicago Tribune

Fri, 21 October 2016

After distinguished career on federal bench, Judge Zagel assumes senior status

Thu, 20 October 2016

Career Opportunity in the Clerk's Office - Financial Specialist I Vacancy

Thu, 20 October 2016

Career Opportunity in the Clerk's Office - Court Reporter Vacancy

Thu, 20 October 2016

Career Opportunity in the Clerk's Office - Student Intern (Part-Time) Vacancy

Thu, 20 October 2016

Career Opportunity - Judicial Assistant Vacancy

Thu, 20 October 2016

Career Opportunity - Term Law Clerk Vacancy

Fri, 14 October 2016

Northern District of Illinois launches historic Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program

Chicago, Ill. – Today the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois announces the launch of the Sentencing Options that Achieve Results (SOAR) program.

Wed, 12 October 2016

Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Pilot Program Survey Below is a link to brief survey from the Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Pilot Program. The survey's goal is to obtain input from Seventh Circuit attorneys so that the Program can better serve you and your clients. The survey will be open until November 15, 2016.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7thCIRC

Thank you in advance for your response. The Program greatly appreciates your views.

Iain D. Johnston
U.S. Magistrate Judge
Co-Chair of the Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Pilot Program

Mon, 3 October 2016

U.S. Marshals Service successfully conducts active shooter training in lobby of Dirksen U.S. Courthouse

Chicago, Ill.- Today in the lobby of the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse, the United States Marshals Service, in cooperation with the Dirksen Courthouse Building Security Committee, successfully completed an active shooter training exercise.

Thu, 29 September 2016

The Northern District of Illinois will close at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, September 30, 2016 for a special training event.

Wed, 28 September 2016

District Court seeks comments on proposed amendments to local rules governing General and Trial Bar, pro bono assignments

Fri, 2 September 2016

Guidelines for Proceedings 13 CR 774 U.S.A. vs. Chester et al.

Chicago, IL- The following media guidelines will apply in connection with the trial in U.S.A. v. Chester, et al., 13 CR 774, scheduled to commence at 9:30 a.m. on September 7, 2016, in Courtroom 1419.

Thu, 25 August 2016

Statement on Security Enhancements near the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse

Chicago, IL- Today, United States District Court Chief Judge Rubén Castillo entered a General Order that created a security buffer zone near the Everett McKinley Dirksen

Fri, 19 August 2016

District Court to increase PDF size limit to 35 MB in CM/ECF system

Thu, 18 August 2016

The Judicial Conference Advisory Committees on Appellate, Bankruptcy, Civil, and Criminal Rules have proposed amendments to their respective rules and forms and have asked for public comments through February 15, 2017.

The proposed amendments, the advisory committees’ reports explaining the proposed changes and instructions on how to submit comments are available at: http://www.uscourts.gov/rules-policies/proposed-amendments-published-public-comment

Fri, 5 August 2016

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS 08 CR 888 U.S.A. v. BLAGOJEVICH

Chicago, Ill. - The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled sentencing hearing in U.S.A. v. Blagojevich, scheduled to commence at 10:30 a.m. on August 9, 2016, in Courtroom 2503...

Mon, 18 July 2016

New Origin Code – Multi-District Litigation (MDL)

Pursuant to the Judicial Conference, a new Origin Code has been created to identify the MDL cases originating in the same district as the lead/master MDL case. This will be referred to as " Direct File" MDL cases. The new origin code," 8. Multidistrict Litigation – Direct File", has been created and added to the JS 44. The new version of the JS 44 is archively available on our site and can be found here .

Origin code "8. Multidistrict Litigation – Direct File" will be assigned to all MDL cases that opened on or after July 1, 2016, and originated in the transferee court. MDL cases originating prior to July 1, 2016 will continue to be identified with origin code "6. Multidistrict Litigation – Transfer".

Thu, 14 July 2016

M. David Weisman publically sworn in as newest magistrate judge for the Northern District of Illinois

Chicago, Ill. - Today in the James Benton Parsons Ceremonial Courtroom at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse, M. David Weisman was publically sworn in as Magistrate Judge for the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois..

Mon, 11 July 2016

Proposed Bankruptcy Rule Amendments and Adoption of New Bankruptcy Rule for Public Comment - July 1 to October 3, 2016

The Judicial Conference Advisory Committee on Bankruptcy Rules has proposed amendments to Bankruptcy Rule 3015 and adoption of a new Bankruptcy Rule 3015.1 for public comment. The proposed rules and the Advisory Committee on Bankruptcy Rules report explaining the proposed changes are posted on the U.S. Courts' website at:..

Fri, 8 July 2016

Chief Judge Castillo delivers annual “State of the Court” Address

CHICAGO, Ill. – After asking for moment of silence for law enforcement officers killed last night in Dallas and for all individuals who are victims of excessive violence,..

Mon, 27 June 2016

Bankruptcy Court for Northern District of Illinois now leads nation in most bankruptcy filings

Thu, 2 June 2016

SmartScan: NEW alternative request service offered by NARA.

As an alternative to having boxes of records shipped from the Federal Records Center (FRC) to the Court, a new service offered by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) known as “SmartScan,”...

Wed, 1 June 2016

New Civil Nature of Suit Code - Qui Tam Cases

Pursuant to the Judicial Conference, a new civil nature of suit (NOS) code has been created to identify unsealed qui tam cases to address CJRA reporting. The NOS code 376, Qui Tam (31 U.S.C. Section 3729(a), has been added to the Civil Cover Sheet (Form JS (ILND) 44). The NOS code is to be assigned to a case when a private citizen originates the qui tam case. If the government assumes the case (i.e., U.S. Attorney begins to handle the case for the plaintiff), the same NOS code should be assigned to that case.

Thu, 26 May 2016

Seventeenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service Photos

Thu, 26 May 2016

Miranda V. Arizona - A 50th Anniversary Celebration Photos

Tue, 17 May 2016

Miranda v. Arizona — A 50th Anniversary Celebration

On Wednesday, May 25, 2016, at 3:00 p.m., the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will present "Miranda v. Arizona — A 50th Anniversary Celebration," a free joint CLE program at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse. For more information and to sign up for this program, please click here.

Tue, 17 May 2016

SEVENTEENTH ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST SERVICE

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Seventeenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Thu, 5 May 2016

Women Lawyers in the Courtroom Symposium Video

Thu, 28 April 2016

Proposed revised pattern § 1983 civil jury instructions for the Seventh Circuit are offered for public comment by the Seventh Circuit Pattern Jury Instruction Committee and § 1983 Jury Instruction Subcommittee. Comments will be accepted through April 29, 2016.

Click here for Cover Letter. Click here for Instructions.

Mon, 25 April 2016

GUIDELINES FOR PROCEEDINGS 15 CR 315 U.S. v. HASTERT

Chicago, Ill. – The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled sentencing hearing in U.S. v. Hastert, scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 in Courtroom 1441.

Thu, 21 April 2016

District Court Hosts Historic "Women Lawyers in the Courtroom" Symposium

Chicago, Ill. – Today the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted the "Women Lawyers in the Courtroom" Symposium featuring five panels, which addressed strategies and best practices to empower women as lead counsel and trial counsel in litigation.

Mon, 7 March 2016

Seventeenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service on Wednesday, May 25, 2016, at 1:00 P.M. - Request for Nominations

Click here to view nomination form

CHICAGO, Ill. - MARCH 8, 2016 C The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association..

Mon, 22 February 2016

District judges select M. David Weisman to serve as U.S. magistrate judge for Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO, Ill. - Today the U.S. District Court for Northern District of Illinois announces the selection of M. David Weisman as a U.S. magistrate judge. M. David Weisman will preside in..

Thu, 11 February 2016

United States Bankruptcy Judge Jacqueline P. Cox of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed

CHICAGO, Ill.- United States Bankruptcy Judge Jacqueline P. Cox of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new l4-year term when her archive term expires on February 2,2017.

Mon, 1 February 2016

Northern District of Illinois increases pro bono expense reimbursement in response to feedback from federal trial bar

CHICAGO, Ill.- The District Court in the Northern District of Illinois has increased reimbursement expense limits in pro bono cases filed on or after February 1, 2016.

Thu, 28 January 2016

GENERAL ORDER 16-0001

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will close early on Friday, January 29, 2016, at 3:30 p.m.

Wed, 27 January 2016

President of Constitutional Court of Guatemala meets with Northern District of Illinois judges

CHICAGO, Ill. - Today Judge Gloria Porras Escobar, President of the Guatemalan Constitutional Court, met with federal district and magistrate judges of the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, 27 January 2016

Magistrate Judge Maria Valdez Appointed Presiding Magistrate Judge

CHICAGO, Ill. - Today Presiding Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown passes the torch to Magistrate Judge Maria Valdez who will assume the role of presiding magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois..

Fri, 22 January 2016

Northern District of Illinois graduates four participants from James B. Moran Second C.H.A.N.C.E. Program

CHICAGO, Ill. - At a ceremony presided over by Chief Judge Rubén Castillo and attended by graduates, their families, the Second C.H.A.N.C.E Program team, and a number of district judges and magistrates, graduates of the Northern District of Illinois’ James B. Moran Second...

Wed, 13 January 2016

Edward Gilmore publicly sworn-in as U.S. Marshal to the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO, Ill. - Edward L. Gilmore was publicly sworn-in today as the U.S. Marshal to the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, 12 January 2016

Northern District of Illinois to launch court’s new website on January 25, 2016

On January 25, 2016, the Northern District of Illinois will launch its newly redesigned website...

Mon, 11 January 2016

Bankruptcy Judge Position for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO, Ill. – The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for a bankruptcy judge position for the United States District Court for the Northem District of Illinois..

Fri, 18 December 2015

Reappointment of Bankruptcy Judge Pamela Hollis

CHICAGO, Ill. – United States Bankruptcy Judge Pamela Hollis of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new l4-year term..

Thu, 10 December 2015

Northern District of Illinois Sanctions Chicago Attorney for Photographing and Tweeting Evidence from Federal Courtroom

CHICAGO, Ill. – Today Chief Judge Rubén Castillo entered an order sanctioning Chicago attorney Vincent P. Schmeltz III.

Mon, 7 December 2015

Courts Closed for Christmas Holiday - December 24 and 25, 2015. Early Courts Closing - December 31, 2015. Courts Closed for New Year Holiday - January 1 2016.

Thu, 3 December 2015

AMENDMENTS TO THE FEDERAL RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE Effective December 1, 2015

Congress has taken no action on the proposed amendments to the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy and Civil Procedure, adopted by the Supreme Court and transmitted to Congress on April 29, 2015.

Wed, 25 November 2015

General Order 15-0028 - Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m)

It appearing that a pending amendment to Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m), reducing the period for effecting service from 120 days to 90 days, will go into effect on December 1,2015; therefore

Tue, 24 November 2015

Chief Judge Castillo Addressing the 2015 International IP Court Conference in Korea

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo traveled to the Patent Court of Korea to present to the 2015 "International Intellectual Property (IP) Court Conference: court, IP and innovation." Judge Castillo was invited to speak on a panel addressing"Harmonization and Cooperation in Patent Cases," which included patent and IP judges from courts in Republic of Korea, Japan, and Germany.

Tue, 24 November 2015

Chief Judge Castillo Travels to Korea to Participate in Global IP Court Conference as IP Case Filings Increase in Northern District of Illinois

Fri, 20 November 2015

Ceremony Honoring Northern District of Illinois' Former Magistrate Judges

Fri, 20 November 2015

Northern District of Illinois Unveils Plaque Honoring Court’s Former Magistrate Judges

CHICAGO, Ill. – Yesterday in a ceremony at the Federal Dirksen Building, the Northern District of Illinois dedicated a plaque honoring the federal district court’s former magistrate judges.

Tue, 17 November 2015

CHICAGO, Ill.- On September 24, 2015, District Judge Matthew Kennelly was sworn in as President of the Chicago Federal Bar Association.

Thu, 12 November 2015

Sixty CPS Students Participate in Inaugural Courtroom as Classroom Program

Mon, 09 November 2015

Chief Judge Castillo Presents at the DOJ Judicial Studies Institute in Puerto Rico

Chief Judge Castillo with Judges from Mexico and South and Central America after his Spanish language presentation on U.S. Sentencing at the Clemente Ruiz U.S. District Court in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Tue, 03 November 2015

Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 26 and 27, 2015

Mon, 02 November 2015

GENERAL ORDER 15 - 0027

On Friday, October 30, 2015 Chief Judge Ruben Castillo entered General Order 15-0027 appointing a Merit Selection Panel pursuant to the regulations of the Judicial Conference of the United States Courts for the Appointment of an United States Magistrate Judge for the Eastern Division.

Wed, 28 October 2015

Former U.S. District Judge George N. Leighton Celebrates his 103rd Brithday

Judge Leighton's colleagues at The District Court Congratulate Him On Reaching Another Milestone Birthday

Mon, 26 October 2015

Guidelines For Proceedings 15 CR 315 U.S.A. v. HASTERT

CHICAGO – The following procedures will apply in connection with the scheduled Change of Plea hearing in U.S.A. v. Hastert, scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 in Courtroom 1441.

Wed, 23 September 2015

Settling an SAP Employment Case: An overview of Employment Law, Settlement Techniques & the U.S. District Court, N.D. Ill., Settlement Assistance Program

CHICAGO – October 7, 2015 - 2:30 – 5:00 p.m. U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois 219 S. Dearborn, Courtroom 2525..

Thu, 10 September 2015

United States District Court Seeks Feedback From Trial Bar Members

CHICAGO – United States Chief District Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois sent out a survey today to all members of the trial bar.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/trialbarsurvey

Thu, 10 September 2015

General Order 15-0022

Rockford - IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will be closed on Friday, September 11, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.

Thu, 10 September 2015

General Order 15-0021

Chicago - IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will be closed on Friday, September 11, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m

Tue, 8 September 2015

United States District Court Seeks Candidates for United States Magistrate Judge Position

CHICAGO – United States Chief District Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois is seeking candidates for an upcoming vacant magistrate judge position in Chicago, Illinois. The magistrate judge position will become vacant on June 15, 2016, when Presiding Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown will retire. Click here to view the Position Vacancy Announcement. Click here to view the Magistrate Judge Application.

Thu, 27 August 2015

District Judge Edmond E-Min Chang Administers Oath of Office to New Citizens on the 40th Anniversary of His Parents Taking the Same Oath

Chicago - Today, United States District Judge Edmond E-Min Chang administered the Oath of Allegiance to 100 new citizens.

Tue, 25 August 2015

Magistrate Judge Brown Retiring June 15, 2016

CHICAGO - Today, Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that Presiding Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown will retire on June 15, 2016.

Thu, 20 August 2015

Pro Se Centers Help Even the Odds for Litigants Without Lawyers

Mon, 17 August 2015

The Judicial Conference Advisory Committees on Bankruptcy and Evidence Rules have published for public comment proposed amendments to their respective rules.

Fri, 17 July 2015

Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox Reappointed to Eight Year Term

CHICAGO- Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that United States Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox was reappointed by..

Mon, 13 July 2015

Official Notice to Trial Bar Members

Contact Information of Trial Bar Members

Mon, 29 June 2015

Clerk of Court Thomas G. Bruton Sworn in as President of the Federal Court Clerks Association

Fri, 26 June 2015

District Court Historic Hiring of James B. Moran Second Chance Reentry Program Participant Featured on CBS Chicago News

Tue, 16 June 2015

New Procedure for Attorneys when Filing a Motion to Withdraw

Effective immediately, when a party’s attorney files a motion to withdraw from a case and no other attorney of record is associated with that party, the attorney must attach the Notification of Party Contact Information Form. The form should be electronically filed as an attachment to the motion to withdraw. This will allow the Clerk’s Office to have a mechanism to communicate with the party should the motion be granted. The fillable PDF form is located on the Court’s web site at www.ilnd.uscourts.gov, On-line Forms, Attorney tab. Click here to view an instructional video.

Tue, 16 June 2015

Maintaining a archive and Active E-mail Address

Mon, 08 June 2015

Guidelines in 15 CR 315, U.S.A. v. Hastert

Fri, 22 May 2015

District Court Announces Historic Hiring of James B. Moran Second Chance Reentry Program Participant

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that the U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office has hired a participant of the James B. Moran Second Chance Reentry Program.

Wed, 11 March 2015

Sixteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

Tue, 5 May 2015

Free Prisoner Civil Rights Seminar with MCLE Credit

THE PRISON LITIGATION REFORM ACT (PLRA) REQUIRES THAT AN IMPRISONED PERSON MUST EXHAUST AVAILABLE ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES BEFORE A CIVIL RIGHTS ACTION IS FILED.

Thu, 30 April 2015

Prisoner Civil Rights Litigation - Free Continuing Legal Education (3 hours)

The U.S. District Court in conjunction with the P. Michael Mahoney (Rockford) Chapter of the Federal Bar Association is offering a free continuing legal education program.

Mon, 20 April 2015

Former Chief Judge James Holderman to Retire on June 1, 2015 After 30 Years on the Court

Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that Judge James Holderman has decided to retire from the court on June 1, 2015.

Wed, 11 March 2015

Sixteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 1:00 P.M. - Request for Nominations

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association,....

Tue, 20 January 2015

United States District Judge John Grady Retires After 39 Years of Service

Fri, 16 January 2015

United States Court To Implement E-Voucher System

CHICAGO- Today, Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois implement a new automated system for processing payments to attorneys appointed..

Fri, 16 January 2015

January 15, 2015 Reassignment Order Transferring 306 Cases to District Judge John Robert Blakey

It appearing that, pursuant to the Executive Committee Order entered on December 30, 2014, the civil cases on the attached list have been selected for reassignment to form the initial...

Fri, 16 January 2015

January 16, 2015 Reassignment Order Transferring 306 Cases to District Judge Jorge Luis Alonso.

It appearing that, pursuant to the Executive Committee Order entered on December 30, 2014, the civil cases on the attached list have been selected for reassignment to form the initial...

Thu, 15 January 2015

General Order 15-0002 - Early Closing for Clerk's Office

CHICAGO - IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the Clerk's Office will close early on Thursday, January 15, at 3:30 p.m. Filings may be deposited in the drop boxes located in the lobby of the Courthouse.

Thu, 18 December 2014

Retirement of Experienced Courtroom Deputy Clerks Causes Changes at the Federal Courthouse

CHICAGO – Today, Chief Judge Ruben Castillo announced that over the last six months the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois has experienced a large volume of courtroom deputy clerk retirements..

Mon, 8 December 2014

Holiday Order 2014 - Court Closing on Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2014 and Thursday, January 1, and Friday, January 2, 2015

In order to pennit more time with family and friends, the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed on Thursday, December 25...

Mon, 8 December 2014

Amended General Order 14-0023 In Re: Petitions for Reduction of Imposed Sentences for Retroactive Application of Amendment 782 Reducing Drug Quantity Table in USSG 2D1.1

Thu, 13 November 2014

Courts Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday - November 27 and 28, 2014

In order to permit more time with family and friends, the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed on Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28, 2014...

Fri, 31 October 2014

The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for a bankruptcy judge position for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for a bankruptcy judge position for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Tue, 21 October 2014

Judges Chang, Lee & Kim Participate in the Thomas Tang International Moot Court Competition at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse

Fri, 17 October 2014

United States District Court Northern District of Illinois General Order 14 -0023

It appearing that on April 10,2014, the United States Sentencing Commission voted to reduce by two levels the base offense levels...

Wed, 15 October 2014

Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier Sworn In for a New Eight Year Term

Tue, 14 October 2014

General Order 14.0022 - Early Closing October 17 ,2014

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Friday, October 17 ,2014, therefore...

Tue, 14 October 2014

Memorial Service in Remembrance of the Honorable Stanley J. Roszkowski (Ret.)

ROCKFORD – Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that on Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 2 p.m...

Tue, 23 September 2014

Application for U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois

Applicants for the position of U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois should submit 7 hard copies of their completed application package ..

Tue, 23 September 2014

Senators Durbin and Kirk Name Screening Committee for Next U.S. Marshall for Illinois' Northern District and Announce Application Process

CHICAGO, IL – U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk today announced the formation of a bipartisan screening committee to assist in selecting the next United States Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, 9 September 2014

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg visits the Ceremonial Courtroom at the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg being interviewed by Judge Ann Claire Williams Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse, Ceremonial Courtroom.

Fri, 5 September 2014

General Order 14-0019 - Clerk's Office Employee Meeting

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Friday, September 12,20L4, therefore...

Mon, 11 August 2014

Formation of Pro Bono Advisory Committee

CHICAGO – Today, Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced the creation of a Pro Bono Advisory Committee.

Thu, 7 August 2014

Reappointment of United States Bankruptcy Judge Bruce W. Black

United States Bankruptcy Judge Bruce W. Black of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new l4-yearterm..

Wed, 6 August 2014

President Barack Obama, on Senator Kirk's Recommendation, Picks prosecutor John Robert Blakey for Appointment to U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

U.S. Senator Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) released the following statement today following President Obama's judicial nomination of John Blakey for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Wed, 6 August 2014

President Barack Obama, on Senator Durbin's Recommendation, Picks Associate Judge Jorge Luis Alonso for Appointment to U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that President Obama has nominated two Illinoisans to fill vacancies on the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois...

Mon, 7 July 2014

Statement on the Passing of the Hon. Stanley J. Roszkowski (Ret.)

ROCKFORD – Stanley J. Roszkowski, former district judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, died Monday afternoon in Rockford, Illinois, he was 91 years old.

Mon, 30 June 2014

Federal Court Going Out Into The Community

CHICAGO - Today Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois has developed a Judicial Speakers Bureau available for speaking engagements throughout the District. The Judicial Speakers Bureau is part of the Court’s outreach program to educate and explain the courts to the community. Chief Judge Castillo specifically indicated...

Sat, 28 June 2014

WARNING! FAKE ARREST WARRANT SCAM

Federal District Courts around the country are reporting incidents of scam phone calls being placed indicating that fake arrest warrants have been issued. Individuals have been contacted through phone calls, e-mails and...

Fri, 27 June 2014

On June 26, 2014, Chief Judge Castillo entered a reassignment order transferring 283 cases to District Judge Manish Shah

It appearing that, pursuant to the Executive Committee Order entered on June 26, 2014, the civil cases on the attached list have been selected for reassignment to form the initial calendar of the Honorable Manish S. Shah, therefore...

Thu, 26 June 2014

Wishing Judge Shadur much joy and health on his birthday!

Mon, 23 June 2014

2014 Magistrate Judge Merit Review Panel Appointed

CHICAGO - Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that he appointed a Magistrate Judge Merit Review Panel to consider the reappointment of United States Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier, whose term...

Tue, 3 June 2014

Executive Committee Order of 5/30/14 reassigning retired Magistrate Judge Keys' cases.

It is hereby ordered that the cases and referrals on the attached list are to be reassigned to other magistrate judges of this Court as indicated..

Wed, 7 May 2014

The U.S. District Court Judges and Staff will relocate

The following U.S. District Court Judges and Staff will relocate on the dates listed below:

Mon, 5 May 2014

Fifteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Fifteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 8, 2014..

Thu, 1 May 2014

Manish S. Shah’s Nomination as Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

CHICAGO – On Wednesday evening, April 30, 2014, the United States Senate confirmed the nomination of Manish S. Shah as a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Mon, 21 April 2014

United States District Judge John Nordberg retires after 32 years of service

Chicago- Today, Chief United States District Judge Ruben Castillo announced that United States District Judge John Nordberg will leave the bench after exactly 32 years of service.

Wed, 26 March 2014

Improvement for e-Filers In The Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO: Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced today that with recent upgrades to the CM/ECF system for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the limit of 5 megabytes per e-filing has been increased...

Fri, 21 March 2014

United States Magistrate Judge Arlander Keys will leave the bench on May 30, 2014

Chicago- Today, Chief United States District Judge Ruben Castillo announced that United States Magistrate Judge Arlander Keys will leave the bench on May 30, 2014.

Tue, 4 March 2014

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

MARCH 4, 2014 The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than April 1, 2014 for attorneys who have provided outstanding pro bono and public interest representation in civil and criminal matters before this Court...

Mon, 24 February 2014

Northern District of Illinois Begins Access to Free Court Opinions

CHICAGO –Chief Judge Rubén Castillo announced that beginning today, the public will have another option to view court opinions without a fee. The Northern District of Illinois has begun utilizing the Judicial Conference of the United States...

Mon, 10 February 2014

Reappointment of Incumbent Magistrate Judge

The archive term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier will expire on October 29, 2014. Magistrate Judge Schenkier is a full-time United States magistrate judge in the Eastern Division of the Northern District of Illinois...

Fri, 24 January 2014

United States Magistrate Judge P.Michael Mahoney will leave the bench on May 1, 2014

ROCKFORD- Today, Chief United States District Judge Ruben Castillo announced that United States Magistrate Judge P. Michael Mahoney will leave the bench on May 1, 2014.

Fri, 24 January 2014

Senator Kirk Announces Formation of Non-Partisan, Statewide Judicial Search Committee.

Senator Kirk Announces Formation of Non-Partisan, Statewide Judicial Search Committee. Please click here for Application for Federal Judge.

Mon, 9 December 2013

Courts Closed will be closed on December 24 & 25, 2013

In order to permit more time with family and friends, the United States Court of Appeals for the seventh circuit court and United States Court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Fri, 6 December 2013

General Order 13-0024 - Western Division Mid Day Closing December 9 2013

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Monday, December 9, 2013, therefore...

Wed, 27 November 2013

General Order 13-0023 - Early Closing December 12 2013

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Thursday, December 12, 2013, therefore...

Tue, 26 November 2013

At its September 2013 session, the Judicial Conference approved several changes to the federal court (Court of Appeals, District Court, and Bankruptcy Court) miscellaneous fee schedules effective December 1, 2013. Click here for the Revised fee schedules incorporating the Judicial Conference changes.

The fees included in the Court of Appeals Miscellaneous Fee Schedule are to be charged for services provided by the courts of appeals...

Fri, 15 November 2013

On November 18, 2013, Chief Judge Castillo entered a reassignment order transferring 300 cases to District Judge Andrea Wood.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the attached list of 300 cases be reassigned to the Honorable Andrea R. Wood.

Fri, 15 November 2013

Courts Closing on November 28 and November 29

The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed Thursday, November 28, and Friday November 29, 2013..

Thu, 24 October 2013

On October 23, 2013, Chief Judge Castillo entered a reassignment order transferring 291 cases to District Judge Sara Ellis

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the attached list of 291 cases be reassigned to the Honorable Sara L. Ellis.

Thu, 17 October 2013

Resetting of Deadlines in Civil Matters Involving the United States as a Party

IT APPEARING THAT as a result of the partial federal government shutdown, this Court issued General Order 13-0018 suspending as of October 1, 2013..

Tue, 15 October 2013

Andrea Wood's Nomination As Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

CHICAGO – On Monday evening, October 14, 2013, the United States Senate confirmed the nomination of Andrea R. Wood as a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois...

Mon, 7 October 2013

General Order Holding In Abeyance Civil Matters Involving The United States As A Party

This matter is before the Court due to the lapse of congressional appropriations funding the federal government, including the Department of Justice and the United States Attorney’s Office. Absent an appropriation, the United States...

Fri, 20 September 2013

General Order 13-0014 - Clerk's Office Employee Meeting

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Friday, September 20, 2013, therefore...

Tue, 3 September 2013

Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier Elected President of the Federal Magistrate Judges Association

CHICAGO B Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier has been selected to serve as the President of the Federal Magistrate Judges Association (FJMA). Judge Schenkier took on the responsibilities as FMJA president on July 30, 2013...

Fri, 16 August 2013

Chief Judge Castillo Joins With Other Chief Judges In Letter To Congress about Impact to Judiciary Due to Sequestration

CHICAGO Today, Chief Judge Ruben Castillo announced that he joined with other chief U.S. District judges in writing to the Congressional leadership to alert them as to the impact of Sequestration on the Judiciary...

Thu, 15 August 2013

Proposed Amendments to the National Rules

The Judicial Conference Advisory Committees on Bankruptcy and Civil Rules have proposed amendments to their respective rules and forms, and requested that the proposals be circulated to the bench, bar, and public for comment. The proposed amendments, Rules Committee reports explaining the proposed changes, and other information are posted on the Judiciary’s website at http://www.uscourts.gov/RulesAndPolicies/rules/proposed-amendments.aspx . The public comment period ends February 15, 2014.

Wed, 14 August 2013

Federal District Court Seeks To Improve Jury Diversity

CHICAGO B Every two years, the U. S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois generates a pool of qualified prospective jurors for civil and criminal trials. With its twenty-two authorized district judgeships, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Mon, 15 July 2013

The Northern District of Illinois Discontinues "Minute Order" form

Beginning on July 15, 2013, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will discontinue the use of the "minute order=" form. That form, which worked well in the days before e-filing, is no longer necessary. The District Court will now use a standard order form in which the docket text entry (what once appeared in a box near the top of the minute order form) will appear near the top, labeled "Order." If any additional discussion or explanation is needed, that additional language will appear below, in a section labeled "Statement." To view examples of the new order format click here .
An additional change to our Court's docketing practice is that we will no longer create a separate pdf version of the minute entries that require no corresponding order. All docket entries will still generate an e-mailed notice of electronic filing.

Mon, 1 July 2013

Northern District of Illinois Welcomes Judge Ruben Castillo as Its Chief Judge After Completion by Chief Judge Holderman of Seven-Year Term

CHICAGO - Judge Ruben Castillo became the Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois at midnight earlier today upon the expiration of Chief Judge Holderman’s seven-year term.

Thu, 13 June 2013

Courts Closing on July 4th and July 5th

The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be closed Thursday, July 4, and Friday July 5, 2013..

Wed, 12 June 2013

Judge Castillo’s Chambers, Courtroom and Staff will relocate to the 25th floor on June 21, 2013.

The following U.S. District Court Judges Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed...

Wed, 12 June 2013

Chief Judge Holderman’s Chambers, Courtroom and Staff will relocate to the 21st floor on June 21, 2013.

The following U.S. District Court Judges Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed...

Tue, 11 June 2013

Senator Mark Kirk Picks Manish Shah for Appointment to U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO - Senator Mark Kirk picks Manish Shah for appointment to U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Manish Shah was born in New York. His parents emigrated from India and raised their two sons in West Hartford, Conn. Shah attended Stanford University and graduated with honors and distinction. He attended the University of Chicago Law School and graduated with honors. Shah and his wife Joanna Grisinger, who teaches at Northwestern University, archively live in Chicago. After law school, Shah was a litigation associate at Heller Ehrman in San Francisco and clerked for Hon. James B. Zagel of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Shah joined the Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office in September 2001 and prosecuted violent crime, international drug trafficking, complex fraud and public corruption. Together with a team of prosecutors and federal agents, he investigated and prosecuted a series of cases arising out of the City of Chicago’s Hired Truck Program and Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. During his career at the U.S. Attorney’s Office Shah served in several leadership positions. He was a Deputy Chief of the General Crimes Section and the Financial Crimes and Special Prosecutions Section, and he was the Chief of the Appellate Section. archively, Shah is the Chief of the Criminal Division and is responsible for supervising the prosecutions in the Northern District of Illinois handled by the approximately 130 Assistant United States Attorneys.

Fri, 17 May 2013

Fourteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Fourteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, May 23, 2013..

Wed, 15 May 2013

CHIEF JUDGE JAMES F. HOLDERMAN DELIVERS HIS FINAL "STATE OF THE COURT" ADDRESS

CHICAGO – On Wednesday, May 15, 2013, Chief Judge Holderman presented his seventh and final “State of the Court” address. His seven-year term as chief judge expires July 1, 2013, and Judge Ruben Castillo will take over as the court’s chief judge at that time. Chief Judge Holderman...

Tue, 9 April 2013

New $400 Federal Civil Case Filing Fee Starting May 1, 2013

The Judicial Conference of the United States has increased the mandatory civil case filing fee to $400 by adding a $50 administrative fee starting May 1, 2013 for any new civil case filed in United States District Courts across the country. This fee does not apply to persons granted in forma pauperis status under 28 U.S.C. § 1915. The Northern District of Illinois will update its fee schedule according to the new policy. All counsel and parties are therefore notified that effective May 1, 2013, the filing fee to be paid when a new civil case is filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois is $400.

Tue, 30 April 2013

Attorneys Sara Ellis and Andrea Wood Nominated for Two of the Three Vacancies on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO - President Barack Obama has named two Chicago attorneys, Sara Ellis and Andrea Wood, as nominees to fill two of the three archive vacancies on the court.

Tue, 19 March 2013

Fourteenth Annual Awards For Excellence In Pro Bono and Public Interest Service On Thursday, May 23, 2012, at 3:30 P.M.

MARCH 15, 2013 -- The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be...

Wed, 13 March 2013

Northern District of Illinois Electronic Customer Service Survey

The District Court Clerk’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois is pleased to announce that we have created an electronic customer service survey. Our mission is to provide the highest level of service to the Court and all... Click here to take our Customer Service Survey

Fri, 1 March 2013

United States Court For the Northern District of Illinois Launches New Mobile Web Application

CHICAGO- The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois is pleased to announce a new web app that can be installed on any mobile or tablet device...

Fri, 1 March 2013

Northern District of Illinois Local Patent Rules for Electronically Stored Information Effective March 1, 2013

CHICAGO -March 1, 2013 — The judges of the Northern District of Illinois have amended the court’s Local Patent Rules, and included the Local Patent Rules for Electronically Stored Information...

Wed, 20 February 2013

Federal Day Care Center at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse named in honor of Judge Joan Humphrey Lefkow

CHICAGO- Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced today that at a ceremony to be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 8, 2013..

Fri, 1 February 2013

District Judges Select Iain David Johnston to Serve as Magistrate Judge in Western Division

ROCKFORD- Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that attorney Iain David Johnston, has been selected by the district judges of the Northern...

Thu, 31 January 2013

Free CLE Seminar on Feb. 21, 2013 is Fully-Booked. Another seminar will be scheduled later in the year about the Court's Settlement Assistance Program ("SAP")

The Settlement Assistance Program pairs attorney volunteers with pro se litigants for the limited purpose of representation for a settlement conference. The training on Feb. 21 will be led by a panel of magistrate judges and others. Topics include: limited representation; managing expectations; advising your client; negotiating wisely; working with the SAP; and lessons from the bench. If you are interested in future seminars, e-mail the Seventh Circuit Bar Association at dg@ag-ltd.com with your name, email address and ARDC number. You will be placed on a priority waiting list.'

Click here for more CLE seminar information.
Click here for more SAP information .

Wed, 23 January 2013

General Order 13-0002 - Clerk's Office Employee Meeting

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Tuesday, February 1, 2013, therefore...

Mon, 7 January 2013

Judge Feinerman’s Chambers will relocate to the 21st floor on January 10, 2013

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Thu, 27 December 2012

Senior U.S. District Court Judge George W. Lindberg announces retirement

Fri, 21 December 2012

Senator Kirk Reconvenes Non-Partisan Federal Judicial Review Commission

Mon, 17 December 2012

Thomas M. Durkin’s Nomination as Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

CHICAGO – On Monday afternoon, December 17, 2012, the U.S. Senate confirmed thenomination of Thomas M. Durkin as a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois...

Mon, 10 December 2012

Reappointment Of Incumbent Magistrate Judges

The archive terms of office of United States Magistrate Judges Jeffrey N. Cole and Maria G. Valdez will expire on May 5, 2013 and May 19, 2013, respectively...

Tue, 4 December 2012

Courts Closed on December 24 and December 31, 2012

Fri, 30 November 2012

Jeanne G. Walsh Named Chief United States Probation Officer for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that Jeanne G. Walsh has been selected by the judges of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois to serve as Chief United States Probation Officer...

Thu, 29 November 2012

Notice to Customers Making Payment by Check

Effective December 17, 2012, the United States District Court Northern District of Illinois will begin processing checks as electronic funds transfers.

Fri, 9 November 2012

Courts Closed on November 22, 2012 and November 23, 2012 for Thanksgiving Holiday

The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinios will be closed on ...

Wed, 17 October 2012

Western District Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel Appointed

ROCKFORD- Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced that he today appointed a MagistrateJudge Merit Selection Panel to recommend qualified candidates to replace the magistrate judgeassigned to the Western Division of the Northern District of Illinois.

Mon, 24 September 2012

United States Magistrate Judge Position Applications Now Available On Line and Deadline for Applications is October 15, 2012 at 4:30 P.M.

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced today that the U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office has applications for the position of United States Magistrate Judge available on-line.

Mon, 10 September 2012

The following U.S. Magistrate Judges’ Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed below:

The 10th Floor will not be open to the public until October 1, 2012

Fri, 31 August 2012

General Order 12-0021 - Clerk's Office Employee Meeting

IT APPEARING THAT the emlpoyees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Tuesday, September 4, 2012, therefore...

Thu, 30 August 2012

Reappointment of United States Bankruptcy Judge Carol A. Doyle

United States Bankruptcy Judge Carol A. Doyle of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new 14-year term when her archive term expires on July 25, 2013.

Wed, 29 August 2012

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois video-recorded its first hearing under the National Cameras in the Courtroom Pilot Program on Tuesday, August 28,2012

CHICAGO – On Tuesday, August 28, 2012, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois video-recorded its first hearing under the National Cameras in the Courtroom Pilot Program.

Watch Video

Tue, 3 July 2012

General Order 12 - 0018 - Model Confidentiality Order

View LR26.2 Form in PDF or Wordperfect or MS Word format.

The court has adopted a Model Confidentiality Order to facilitate the exchange of discovery materials that are entitled to protection under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26. The model order is for the convenience of the parties and the court and not intended to create a presumption in favor of the provisions in the model and against alternative language that the parties may propose. To simplify the court’s review, however, draft confidentiality orders proposed by the parties must show changes from the model order by redlining that indicates both deletions and additions to the model text. The court will make the final decisions on the terms of any order. To access the Model Confidentiality Order, click here

Fri, 29 June 2012

United States District Court for the Northen District of Illinois Selects Two New Magistrate Judges

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that Daniel Martin and Mary Rowland have been selected by the district judges of the Northern District of Illinois to be...

Mon, 11 June 2012

Dates Set For Newest District Judges' Public Investiture Ceremonies

Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced today that the public investiture ceremony for new District Judge John J. Tharp will be on Tuesday, June 26, 2012, at 4:00 p.m..

Wed, 6 June 2012

Media Day June 11, 2012 Stanley J. Roszkowski United States Courthouse, Rockford, Illinois

Rockford-area media outlets are invited to attend a guided tour of the Stanley J. Roszkowski United States Courthouse at 327 S. Church Street, Rockford, Illinois on Monday, June 11,2012..

Mon, 4 June 2012

Statement Of Chief Judge James F. Holderman On The Passing Of Magistrate Judge Martin C. Ashman

Magistrate Judge Martin C. Ashman passed away this morning. He was 81.

Sat, 26 May 2012

The Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse Will Open To The Public On June 4, 2012 327 South Church Street Rockford, Illinois

The following U.S. District Court Judges’ Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will be located in the new Courthouse on the dates listed below:

Mon, 21 May 2012

Thomas M. Durkin Nominated to the Bench in the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – On Monday, May 21, 2012, President Barack Obama nominated Thomas M. Durkin to be a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Thu, 17 May 2012

Fee Increase for Exemplication of Documents

Please note that effective June 1, 2012, the fee set by the Judicial Conference of the United States Courts for exemplification of documents has changed. The new fee for this service is $21.00 per document. Click here for a link to the full schedule of fees approved by the Judicial Conference.

Tue, 15 May 2012

Chief Judge James F. Holderman Gives Annual "State of the Court" Address

CHICAGO – After asking for a moment of silence in memory of departed Judge William J. Hibbler, who died on March 19, Chief Judge Holderman said...

Mon, 14 May 2012

John J. Tharp, Jr.’s Nomination as Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

CHICAGO – On Monday, May 14, 2012, the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of John J. Tharp as a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, 8 May 2012

John Z. Lee’s Nomination as Judge of the Northern District of Illinois Confirmed

CHICAGO – On Monday, May 7, 2012, the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of John Z. Lee as a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of Illinois.

Fri, 18 May 2012

Thirteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Thirteenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 18, 2012,..

Tue, 15 May 2012

General Order 12 - 15 - Media Access To The Everett Mckinley Dirksen United States Courthouse From May 18, 2012 Through May 21, 2012

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that, from 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012, to 7:00 a.m. on Monday, May 21, 2012, media personnel...

Tue, 3 April 2012

The 25th Floor Will Be Re-Opened April 6, 2012

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Thu, 22 March 2012

Maximizing Your Pro Bono Experience

Free CLE seminar presented by the 7th Circuit Bar Association and U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois: "Maximizing Your Pro Bono Experience" - April 10, 2012.

Wed, 21 March 2012

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois - 10th Annual Awards for Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

March 20, 2012 - The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than...

Mon, 19 March 2012

Statement of Chief Judge James F. Holderman on the Passing of District Judge William J. Hibbler

Judge William J. Hibbler of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois died this morning.

Wed, 7 March 2012

U.S. Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel Named

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced that the judges of the District Court unanimously appointed the members of the Court’s 2012 Magistrate...

Fri, 2 March 2012

General Order 12-0010 - Late Opening Friday March 9

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois shall close on Friday, March 9,2012 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.

Wed, 8 February 2012

In Re: Zimmer Nexgen Knee Implant Products Liability Litigation

IN RE: Zimmer Nexgen Knee Implant Product Liability Litigation...

Mon, 23 January 2012

The 25th Floor Will Be Closed February 9, 2012

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Tue, 17 January 2012

Applications Being Accepted for Two Magistrate Judge Positions

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced today that the U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office has applications for the position of United States Magistrate Judge available on-line...

Fri, 13 January 2012

The 23rd Floor Will Be Re-Open January 26, 2012

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Fri, 6 January 2012

Statement of the Chief Judge on the Passing of District Judge Frank James McGarr

Judge Frank James McGarr, who served as Chief District Judge of the Northern District of Illinois from 1981 to 1986, passed away on January 6, 2012. He was 90 years old Judge McGarr was honored by his colleagues as an accomplished jurist with incisive legal reasoning, a legendary sense of fairness...

Tue, 3 January 2012

Thomas G. Bruton Becomes Clerk of Court in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – Effective January 1, 2012, Thomas G. Bruton began serving as the Clerk of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. He replaced Michael W. Dobbins who retired last year. Mr. Bruton is the fourteenth person to hold the position in the court’s 192-year history...

Tue, 3 January 2012

Bankruptcy Judge Position

The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for a bankruptcy judge position for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois..

Wed, 21 December 2011

General Order 11-0035 - Early Closing December 23

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois shall close at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2011.

Thu, 15 December 2011

Federal Rules Amendments 12-1-2011

Amendments To The Federal Rules Of Practice And Procedure

Wed, 7 December 2011

General Order 11-0033 - Early Closing December 15

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Thursday, December 15, 2011..

Wed, 7 December 2011

General Order 11-0032 - Early Closing December 14

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Wednesday, December 14, 2011..

Wed, 16 November 2011

General Order 11-0030 - Courts Closed November 24 & 25, 2011 for Thanksgiving Holiday

Mon, 7 November 2011

The 23rd Floor Will Be Closed For Renovation From 11/29/2011 – 1/27/12

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Mon, 31 October 2011

The 22nd Floor Will Re-open In November

The following U.S. District Court Judges' Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed.

Mon, 24 October 2011

Judical Conference Approves Court Fee Increases Effective Nov. 1, 2011

At its September 2011 session, the Judicial Conference approved changes to the miscellaneous fee schedules for the courts of appeals, district courts, bankruptcy courts, the Court of Federal Claims, and the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict...

Fri, 21 October 2011

Thomas G. Bruton Named Clerk of Court in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO –Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that Thomas G. Bruton has been selected by the judges of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois to serve as Clerk of Court upon the retirement of Michael W. Dobbins on December 31, 2011...

Thu, 29 September 2011

Notice: Important Change In Access To Files Held By NARA

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), Federal Records Center-Chicago, at 7358 S. Pulaski Road, Chicago IL will no longer provide on-site court case review services to the public.

Wed, 21 September 2011

General Order 11-0028 - Late Opening September 23

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Friday, September 23, 2011..

Mon, 19 September 2011

Patent pilot project in the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – The Northern District of Illinois is one of fourteen United States district courts selected to participate in a statutorily-created, ten-year program designed to evaluate the adjudication of patent cases.

Fri, 9 September 2011

THE 21st Floor Is Now Open

The following U.S. District Court Judges= Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff have relocated to the 21st floor .

Wed, 7 September 2011

The 22nd Floor will be closed for renovation from 9/14/2011 – 11/10/11

The following U.S. District Court Judges Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed...

Thu, 21 July 2011

Clerk of US DC-NDIL to retire December 31, 2011

CHICAGO – Michael W. Dobbins, who has been the Clerk of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois since 1997, announced today he is retiring effective December 31, 2011.

Wed, 20 July 2011

General Order 11-0025 - Late Opening July 22

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on Friday, July 22, 2011..

Mon, 11 July 2011

E-Discovery Pilot Program

CHICAGO – The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, as creator of and participant in the Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Pilot Program, is pleased to announce the Pilot Program’s new Internet home at ..

Thu, 23 June 2011

Reappointment of an Incumbent Magistrate Judge

The archive term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Morton Denlow will expire on February 29, 2012. Magistrate Judge Denlow is a full-time United States magistrate judge in the Eastern Division of the Northern District...

Fri, 17 June 2011

The 21st Floor Will be Closed for Renovation From 7/6/11 – 8/31/11

The following U.S. District Court Judges’ Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed...

Fri, 10 June 2011

The 20th Floor Will Re-open to the Public on June 27,2011

Fri, 13 May 2011

Twelfth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – The United States District Court’s Twelfth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, May 19, 2011, in the James Benton Parsons Memorial...

Mon, 25 Apr 2011

Invitation for Public Comment on Reappointment of Bankruptcy Judge Manuel Barbosa

United States Bankruptcy Judge Manuel Barbosa of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new 14-year term when his archive term expires...

Fri, 1 Apr 2011

The 20th Floor Will Be Closed From 4/26/11 – 6/22/11

The U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office will relocate on the dates listed...

Wed, 30 Mar 2011

Bankruptcy Judge Positions

The The Judicial Council of the Seventh Circuit is seeking applicants for two bankruptcy judge positions for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Tue, 29 Mar 2011

The 19th Floor Will Reopen in April

The following U.S. District Court Judges’ Chambers, Courtrooms and Staff will relocate on the dates listed...

Mon, 21 Mar 2011

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than Wednesday, April 13, 2011, for attorneys who have provided outstanding pro bono and public interest representation in civil and criminal matters before this court.

Fri, 8 Apr 2011

Chief Judge James F. Holderman's Statement Regarding Potential Government Shutdown

Please be assured that here in the Northern District of Illinois, Clerk of the Court Mike Dobbins and I have conferred and have developed a plan for our court to deal in the short term with...

Tue, 1 Mar 2011

Judge Bruce W. Black Selected to Serve as Chief Judge of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that Judge Bruce W. Black has been selected by the judges of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois to serve as Chief Judge of the U.S...

Tue, 22 Feb 2011

Senator Mark Kirk Announces Bipartisan Federal Judicial Review Commission

CHICAGO – U.S. Senator Mark Kirk has formed a bipartisan, statewide Judicial Review Commission to recommend Federal District Court Judges for Illinois...

Fri, 4 Feb 2011

Jury Wheel - Eastern

Creation of Master Wheel, Withdrawl of Names from the Master Wheel...

Fri, 4 Feb 2011

Jury Wheel - Western

Creation of Master Wheel, Withdrawl of Names from the Master Wheel...

Mon, 31 Jan 2011

The 19TH Floor Will Closed For Renovation From 2/16/11 – 4/19/11

The following U.S. District Court Judges’ chambers and courtrooms will relocate on the dates...

Thu, 20 Jan 2011

The 18th Floor will Reopen in February

The following U.S. District Court Judges’ chambers and courtrooms will relocate on the dates...

Mon, 10 Jan 2011

Order of the Executive Committee Selecting the Initial Calendar for the Honorable Edmond E. Chang

Mon, 10 Jan 2011

Senator Durbin Announces Bipartisan Screening Committee for Federal Judges in the Northern District

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin announced the formation of a bipartisan screening committee to assist in selecting Federal District Court Judges for the Northern District of Illinois...

Tue, 21 Dec 2010

George H. Ryan, Sr. v. United States of America - Minute Order

George H. Ryan, Sr. v. United States of America...

Tue, 21 Dec 2010

George H. Ryan, Sr. v. United States of America - Ruling

George H. Ryan, Sr. v. United States of America...

Mon, 20 Dec 2010

Edmond E. Chang Confirmed as a Judge of the Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – On Saturday, December 18, 2010, the U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination of Edmond E. Chang to the Northern District of Illinois...

Mon, 8 Nov 2010

The 18th Floor will be closed for renovation from 12/7/10 - 2/3/11

The 18th floor will be closed for renovation. The following U.S. District Court Judges’ chambers and courtrooms will relocate on the dates...

Tue, 13 July 2010

Senate Confirms Coleman to be U.S. District Judge for the Northern District

WASHINGTON.D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the United States Senate has unanimously confirmed Justice Sharon Coleman to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois.

Tue, 29 Jun 2010

Senate Confirms Feinerman to be U.S. District Judge for the Northern District

WASHINGTON.D.C. - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the United States Senate has approved Gary Feinerman, by a vote of 80-0, to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois...

Tue, 22 Jun 2010

Chief Judge James F. Holderman Provides his Annual “State of the Court” address

CHICAGO – Following a long-standing annual tradition, Chief Judge James F. Holderman, on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, spoke at a luncheon sponsored by the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association and provided insight into...

Fri, 28 May 2010

Senate Confirms McPherson to be US Marshal in Northern District

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the United States Senate approved Darryl McPherson to serve as U.S. Marshal in the Northern District of Illinois.

Thu, 27 May 2010

Senate Judiciary Committee Approves US Marshal Nominee in Northern District

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the Senate Judiciary Committee, of which he is a member, unanimously approved Darryl McPherson to serve as U.S. Marshal in the Northern District of Illinois...

Thu, 20 May 2010

Eleventh Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – Lawrence Baca, President of the Federal Bar Association, will be the keynote speaker at a May 26, 2010 awards ceremony sponsored by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter...

Fri, 7 May 2010

Electronic Public Access (EPA) Fee Schedule Change

Pursuant to sections 1913, 1914, 1926, 1930, and 1932 of Title 28, United States Code, the Judicial Conference, at its March 16, 2010 session, amended the Electronic Public Access Fee Schedule for the appellate, district...

Thu, 22 Apr 2010

White House Nominates Chang to Fill Federal Judgeship in Northern District

WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that President Obama has nominated Edmond Chang for a federal judgeship on the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois...

Thu, 15 Apr 2010

White House Nominates Darryl McPherson to be the United States Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that President Obama has nominated Darryl McPherson to serve as U.S. Marshal in the Northern District of Illinois...

Wed, 14 Apr 2010

United States of America v. Rod Blagojevich, et al.

Motion by Sun Times Media LLC, Associated Press, and Chicago Tribune Company to intervene and for immediate access to the Santiago proffer filed under seal (295) is granted.

Wed, 17 Mar 2010

Request for Nominations for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

MARCH 17, 2010 — The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, in conjunction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than Wednesday,...

Tue, 16 Mar 2010

Deputy Chief U.S. Probation Officer Kristine Phillips to Replace Retiring Chief Richard L. Tracy

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that the court’s Chief Probation Officer, Richard L. Tracy, will retire effective May 1, 2010, and that Kristine Phillips, Deputy Chief U.S. Probation Officer since 2000, will become...

Thu, 25 Feb 2010

President Obama Nominates Two for Northern District Court Bench

President Obama has nominated Justice Sharon Coleman and attorney Gary Feinerman for two of the five vacancies on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Further details are provided by the White House and Senator Dick Durbin's office's press releases.

Fri, 22 Jan 2010

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Selects Three New Magistrate Judges

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman today announced that Sheila M. Finnegan, Jeffrey T. Gilbert, and Young B. Kim have been selected by the district judges of the Northern District of Illinois to be United States Magistrate Judges, filling two vacancies and one newly created magistrate judgeship...

Tue, 19 Jan 2010

District Court Introduces New, Customer-Friendly Method for Ordering Transcripts of Court Proceedings

CHICAGO — Chief Judge James Holderman announced today that the District Court has developed a new online method for attorneys and others to use when ordering transcripts of court proceedings. This online transcript...

Thu, 19 Nov 2009

Local Rules Time Period Amendments Effective December 1, 2009

IT APPEARING THAT the full Court met in executive session Thursday, November 19, 2009 and approved a proposal...

Wed, 3 Feb 2010

Free Webinar on the Principles of the Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Pilot Program Phase One February 17, 2010 at Noon C.S.T.

You are cordially invited to attend, electronically and free of charge, the first nationally broadcast in-depth discussion of the Principles Relating to the Discovery of Electronically Stored Information adopted by the Seventh Circuit Electronic Discovery Committee. The program will be broadcast on LAW.COM on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Noon C.S.T......

Thu, 19 Nov 2009

US District Court will be closed on December 24 and 25, 2009 in observance of the Christmas holiday

In order to permit more time with family and friends, the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and the United States District court for the Northern District of Illinois...

Tue, 10 Nov 2009

General Order 09-026

IT APPEARING THAT the employees of the Clerk's Office will attend a special meeting on November 19, 2009, therefore IT IS HEREBY ORDERED...

Thu, 1 Oct 2009

Northern District of Illinois Local Patent Rules Effective October 1, 2009

CHICAGO - October 1, 2009 — The judges of the Northern District of Illinois have enacted the Court’s Local Patent Rules to guide the pretrial procedures in patent cases. The Local Patent Rules are effective as of October 1, 2009...

Mon, 28 Sep 2009

U.S. Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel Named

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced that the members of the Court’s 2009 Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel have been appointed to assist the District Court in selecting qualified candidates to fill...

Tue, 25 Aug 2009

Foreclosure Case Forms Available on District Court Website

CHICAGO — Chief Judge James Holderman announced today that forms for documents that may be used in foreclosures cases in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois are now available on the....

Wed, 10 Jun 2009

New Requirements Affecting E-Filing in Civil Cases Beginning June 15, 2009

The District Court's General Order on Electronic Filing was amended on April 30, 2009 to require the e-filing of sealed/restricted documents in civil cases. This new requirement covers all sealed and restricted documents filed in civil...

Wed, 10 Jun 2009

1:08-cr-00888, United States of America v. Blagojevich, et al.

Motion to Disclose Intercepted Communication to Senate Ethics Committee, Order and Exhibit...

Fri, 10 Jul 2009

United States Magistrate Judge Position Applications Now Available On Line and Deadline for Applications is September 11, 2009 at 4:30 P.M.

CHICAGO – Chief Judge James F. Holderman announced today that the U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office has now made the application for the position of United States Magistrate Judge available on line...

Thu, 28 May 2009

Tenth Annual Awards for Excellence in Pro Bono and Public Interest Service

CHICAGO – Juanita Sales Lee, President of the Federal Bar Association, will be the keynote speaker at a May 29, 2009 awards ceremony sponsored by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the...

Mon, 11 May 2009

Early Settlement Conference Program

CHICAGO – The judges of the United States District Court have announced a court-wide Early Settlement Conference Program to assist litigants in minimizing costs. Chief Judge James F. Holderman stated that the idea for...

Tue, 28 Apr 2009

Chief Judge James F. Holderman Speaks on the State of the Court

CHICAGO – After a moment of silence in memory of departed Judge James B. Moran, who died on April 21, Chief Judge Holderman said the state of the court was, in a word, “good” and reported the following...

Tue, 21 Apr 2009

Statement of the Chief Judge on the Passing of District Judge James B. Moran

CHICAGO – James B. Moran, former chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, died this morning in Evanston, Illinois. Judge Moran, who was appointed to the Northern District of Illinois by President...

Tue, 21 Apr 2009

Arrangements for Judge James B. Moran

CHICAGO - The Family of James B. Moran, Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, who died this morning, will receive friends during visitation at the John Evans Alumni Center of Northwestern University, 1800 North Sheridan...

Wed, 8 Apr 2009

District of Illinois Announces Online Attorney Admission

CHICAGO - April 8, 2009 - The United States District Court for the Northern District of illinois is pleased to announce that its online attorney admission and registration program is effective Wednesday, April 8, 2009. Attorneys may now move for admission to the court's general bar and trial bar...

Tue, 24 Mar 2009

MARCH 24, 2009 - The United States District Court for the Northern District of illinois in conjuction with the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is seeking nominations to be submitted to the court no later than...

Tue, 24 Mar 2009

Northern District of Illinois Judges Propose Local Patent Rules

CHICAGO - MARCH 23, 2009 The judges of the Northern District of Illinois have issued for public comment proposed local rules to guide the pretrial procedures in patent cases. The public comment period will run sixty days ...

Fri, 20 Feb 2009

United States District Court in Illinois Celebrates 190th Anniversary on March 3, 2009

CHICAGO - March 3, 2009 marks the 190th anniversary of the United States District Court in Illinois. An anniversary celebration will begin at 3:00 p.m. with a program in the James Benton Parsons Ceremonial Courtroom...

Fri, 6 Feb 2009

New Rockford U.S. Courthhouse to be Named for Retired District Judge Stanley J. Roszkowski

As the construction of the new U.S. Courthouse in Rockford continues to progress, Senator Dick Durbin on February 5, 2009 introduced legislation to name it for retired U.S. District Judge Stanley J. Roszkowski...

Thu, 22 Jan 2009

Reappointment of Incumbent Magistrate Judge

The archive term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Michael T. Mason will expire on September 28, 2009. Magistrate Judge Mason is a full-time United States magistrate judge in the Eastern Division of the Northern...

Fri, 31 Oct 2008

Terry MacCarthy Stepping Down as Top Federal Defender in Northern District of Illinois

CHICAGO – After 42 years with the Federal Defender Program of the Northern District of Illinois, Terrence F. MacCarthy is stepping down as its Executive Director effective January 1, 2009. Carol A. Brook, the Program’s...

Mon, 1 Sep 2008

Judicial Conference Policy Regarding the Availability of Transcripts of Court Proceedings

The Judicial Conference implemented a policy regarding the availability of transcripts of court proceedings in September of 2007. This policy is limited to the redaction of specific personal identifiers from transcripts...

Fri, 1 Aug 2008

Proposed Family and Medical Leave Act(FMLA) Pattern Civil Jury Instructions for the Seventh Circuit Court

Proposed Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) pattern civil jury instructions for the Seventh Circuit are offered for public comment by the Seventh Circuit Pattern Jury Instruction Committee. The committees, which include...

Mon, 29 February 2016

District Court to Hold "Women Lawyers in the Courtroom" Symposium, April 21, 2016

(This event is sold out in Chicago; however, seats are available for a live stream at the Rockford Courthouse, 327 South Church Street, Rockford Illinois)

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois will be hosting a complimentary symposium, “Women Lawyers in the Courtroom.”

Wed, 30 Mar 2016

United States Bankruptcy Judge A. Benjamin Goldgar of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new l4-year term

United States Bankruptcy Judge A. Benjamin Goldgar of the Northern District of Illinois has applied to be reappointed by the United States Court of Appeals to a new l4-year term..

Fri, 15 April 2016

New U.S. Probation Office saves $1.4 million in estimated annual rent costs

Chicago, Ill. - Today at a ceremony dedicating the new U.S. Probation Office for the Northern District of Illinois, Chief Judge of the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Rubén Castillo cut the ribbon..