GOVERNMENT-TECH

This bill amends the Illinois Counties Code to encourage the establishment of a statewide Office of Public Defense Trial Support under the direction of the Supreme Court. The proposed office would provide assistance to public defenders and work with legal advocacy groups to create a strategic plan for improving public defense services and resources. If approved and funded, the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts would offer administrative support to this new office through June 30, 2026. The legislation directly affects the structure of public defense in Illinois by creating a framework for enhanced support regardless of the county where charges are brought.