17^TH Judicial Circuit

ACCESS TO THE COURT FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Assisted Listening Devices for Courtrooms

Most every courtroom is equipped with an infrared assistive listening system. This system includes stationary infrared (IR) emitter in each location and portable infrared receivers with a choice of stereo lightweight headphones, neck loops or inductors for use with the individual's personal T-coil hearing aid. Portable Assistive Listening Devices available for use in our Juvenile Courts, if needed. Contact the Court Bailiff or Court Administration to check-out a device.

Building Access and Accommodations

The buildings and facilities used by the courts are fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act building and signage requirements.

Real-time Court Reporters for Hearing Impaired available upon request

Court Reporters capable of real-time captioning are available by prior arrangement in court cases involving hearing-impaired participants. Through this technology, the court reporter's symbols are fed into the computer which are then translated into the English language and appear on the computer screen to allow the deaf or hearing-impaired person to read the testimony as it is being given in the Court proceeding.

Reserved Parking for Persons with Disabilities

There are numerous reserved parking spaces located on the street or in parking lots near the entrances to our facilities.

Sign Language Interpreters

 Whenever a deaf person is party to any legal proceeding, chosen as a juror, or called as a witness, the Court in all instances appoints a qualified, certified interpreter of sign language to interpret the proceedings. In the case of a deaf juror, the interpreter shall be available throughout the actual trial and may accompany and communicate with such juror throughout any period during which the jury is sequestered or engaged in its deliberations.

Telephone Relay Services

Although the court does not have TTY capability, we encourage persons with hearing or speech impairments who wish to communicate with the court to contact the ILLINOIS RELAY CENTER at: 1-800-526-0844, who has staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Wheelchair Availability

Wheelchairs are available at the main entrances of the Boone and Winnebago County Courthouses. Security at the entrance can direct patrons to their location. A wheelchair is also available at the Winnebago County Jury Commission Office.

  17^th Judicial Circuit Court Disability Coordinators:

Links to:

The 17th Judicial Circuit Policy for Access to the Court for People with Special Needs.

Request for Accommodation Under the Americans with Disabilities Act - Exhibit B

Americans with Disabilities Act Grievance Form - Appendix C

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The court is open to your suggestions to enhance your access to our facilities and services.

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