The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts announced on May 30 a collaboration with the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice’s Disability Access Committee and the AOIC Behavioral Health Administrator to release two new resources aimed at improving mental health awareness in the state’s court system.
The newly developed Desk Card: Responding to Mental Health at Court is intended for all court personnel. It focuses on observing behavioral changes, using person-first language, and utilizing resources such as Court Disability Coordinators. The Bench Card: Mental Health Crisis & Judicial Response is designed specifically for judges, outlining de-escalation techniques and providing legal frameworks for court-ordered temporary detention and examination when an individual is experiencing an immediate crisis.
According to the announcement, these tools are being introduced during Mental Health Awareness Month in response to growing attention on how mental illness intersects with courtroom proceedings. The materials are described as practical guides based on evidence that aim to ensure dignity, safety, and due process within judicial settings.
August Hieber, Senior Program Manager with the Access to Justice Division of the AOIC who staffs the Disability Access Committee, said, “Our goal is to reduce barriers and promote dignity for every court user. By equipping our staff and judiciary with these tools, we can better navigate the complexities of mental health with empathy and professionalism.”
Further information about these resources or details regarding the Disability Access Committee can be obtained by contacting August Hieber at Ahieber@IllinoisCourts.gov or by visiting ilcourts.info/atj-resources.
