The Illinois Judicial Conference announced on June 2 that its Remote Access Task Force is conducting a survey to gather input about the implementation of Supreme Court Rule 45, which governs remote appearances in circuit court proceedings. The initiative is part of the 2026-2028 Illinois Judicial Branch Strategic Agenda, which emphasizes increasing efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility in the courts.
According to the announcement, the Task Force believes that remote court appearances can improve access to justice and build trust in the judicial branch. The survey aims to collect information from legal professionals about their experiences with Rule 45 and how it affects their practice and community. Other stakeholders—including judges, clerks, and court administrators—will also be surveyed using tailored questionnaires focused on remote court appearances.
“The survey will help the Task Force determine what further support or assistance may be needed and how remote court appearances can be improved and made more consistent,” according to the Illinois Judicial Conference. Responses are requested by Tuesday, June 30. The online survey is available now; questions may be directed to Sarah Song at the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts.
The Illinois Bar Association supports lawyers across Illinois by providing continuing legal education, practice management resources, professional networking opportunities, fostering diversity and inclusion efforts, and recognizing excellence through awards for pro bono service and diversity leadership, serving over 28,000 members from its administrative center under an elected president with a Board of Governors and Assembly structure, according to the official website.
The insights gathered from this survey will inform future recommendations as part of ongoing efforts to standardize and enhance remote access within state courts.
