The legal system is complex, expensive and designed to be navigated by trained attorneys. Many people can’t afford an attorney, but they must engage in the legal system to solve critical problems like domestic violence, foreclosure, divorce, and more. Illinois Legal Aid Online lowers barriers to the law so that people can understand their legal options, make informed decisions, and when necessary, represent themselves. ILAO leverages technology to put the law within reach for all Illinoisans regardless of their location, income, and education. By the numbers - In 2017, ILAO published more than 1,500 new or updated legal resources in English and Spanish, including substantial revisions to reflect the January 1, 2018 e-filing mandate in Illinois courts. - ILAO's triage screening and online intake applications for 7 Illinois legal services partners and transferred 700 applications in 2017 directly to the partners’ case management systems. - 53,000 forms, letters, and court documents were prepared using ILAO's automated documents programs. - 100 pro bono lawyers answered legal questions from 1,250 clients. - 136 law student and legal volunteers took 7,794 chats to help people find the legal information they're looking for.
