Illinois Courts invited to apply for access to justice improvement grants and join Court Navigator Network

The Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice and the Access to Justice Division of the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts are excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026-2027 Access to Justice (ATJ) Improvement Grant Program. Courts across Illinois at all levels are encouraged to apply for funding and to consider joining the Court Navigator Network (Network) of court personnel who assist self-represented litigants (SRLs) and advance access to justice.

The Request for Proposals (RFP) is open, and applications will be accepted through July 10, 2026.

The ATJ Improvement Grant encourages local courts to reflect on what their communities need to advance access to justice, and as the program enters its tenth year, the Commission hopes courts will dream big.

In the past, grant funds have supported a wide range of creative solutions, including:

• Transforming underused courthouse spaces into welcoming self-help centers,
• Updating signage to help visitors find their way,
• Creating early resolution programs that help families move through divorce cases more efficiently, and
• Building partnerships with public libraries to expand access to legal information and resources.

Even if a grant is not awarded or requested, a designated staff member may participate in the Network, which will include grant recipients, Illinois JusticeCorps members, and Illinois Court Help guides. Members of the Network serve as a bridge, linking their courthouses with others throughout the state to share ideas, develop new initiatives, and strengthen support for SRLs across Illinois.

Participation in the Network offers local courts an opportunity to connect with peers, learn about innovative projects, and bring fresh perspectives to their own courts and communities. More details about joining the Network can be found in the RFP.