HB 1444

Abstract

Amends the Eviction Article of the Code of Civil Procedure. Requires the court to appoint an attorney for an indigent tenant in an eviction action. Provides that the Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission is responsible for the implementation of such appointments, and the State shall pay the costs of legal services provided by an appointed attorney. Requires the Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission to enter into contracts with attorneys and agencies for the provision of legal services. Requires the Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission to submit to the General Assembly a plan to fully implement the indigent tenant representation requirements within 12 months of the effective date of the amendatory Act. House Committee Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Eviction Article of the Code of Civil Procedure. Requires the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation, through the Department of Human Services, to establish a statewide program for providing legal assistance and related services for eviction prevention. Provides that any eligible unrepresented party in an eviction matter shall receive the level of legal assistance from a participating legal aid organization that the participating legal aid organization deems appropriate. Sets forth priority standards for eligible full representation clients. Authorizes the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation to make grants to counties that are operating eviction prevention programs with its circuit courts that are consistent with the purposes of the provisions. Encourages the Supreme Court to adopt rules and policies for eviction cases in State circuit courts. Fiscal Note, House Committee Amendment No. 1 (Admin Office of the Illinois Courts) The proposed legislation would have no fiscal impact on the state appropriation to the Judicial Branch. It is not possible to determine what fiscal impact, if any, the bill would have on local judicial budgets.