Illinois JusticeCorps Rockford

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Illinois JusticeCorps is an innovative program that enhances access to justice for the growing number of unrepresented people in the courts by empowering and training student volunteers to help people without lawyers navigate the court system by providing legal information and procedural guidance.

People coming to court without lawyers often do not know where to go, what to ask for or who to see for documents. They often are confused, intimidated and scared. JusticeCorps members serve as guides to make the courts more welcoming and less intimidating to people who are navigating this complex and daunting system. JusticeCorps assistance allows people to accomplish the purpose of their visit more efficiently. Members receive thorough training, including about the activities in the courthouse, available resources and the difference between legal information and advice.

Volunteer responsibilities may include:

• Assist self-represented litigants in the courthouse by providing legal information and connecting them to available legal aid resources
• Accompany people without lawyers around the courthouse to help them complete the necessary steps to move forward with their legal matters
• Provide self-help assistance to court-patrons, including helping them navigate online self-help resources such as Illinois Legal Aid Online.

Volunteers should:

• Be outgoing and willing to help strangers with problems
• Have a communication style that is clear and patient
• Be able to use active listening skills to understand what people need or want
• Be able to exhibit initiative in showing people how to solve problems
• Be responsible and dependable
• Have an interest in the legal and court system

The position requirements:

• 300-hour volunteer commitment. Hours must be completed within 365 days.
• Commitment to work eight to twelve hours per week in 4-hour shifts during weekday court hours at the Winnebago County Courthouse.
• Attend all required training sessions.
• Be willing to work with people who may be stressed, anxious and challenging
• Conscientiously gather and submit data needed for reports
• Non-English Language proficiency a plus

Benefits:

• Volunteers are members of AmeriCorps, a national network of service programs that recruit and train volunteers to meet critical community needs while they earn money for education.
• After completion of 300-hour commitment, volunteer will receive $1212.44 Education Award for education expenses or loan repayment.
• Great training, professional skills development, work experience and professional references

How to apply:

• Send completed Illinois JusticeCorps Application and resume to applications@iljusticecorps.org; Subject line: "Illinois JusticeCorps - Rockford Volunteer"