Law Alerts
We cultivate a collaborative, inclusive culture where our team shares knowledge and stays informed on legal developments. We value diversity, as different perspectives strengthen our ability to solve problems and advocate effectively. Beyond our legal services, we prioritize building relationships through internal events that promote camaraderie and a positive environment. This culture empowers us to deliver exceptional legal services and contributions to our clients and communities.
Law Alerts
Gov. Pritzker Renews His Call to Ban Cell Phones in Illinois Classrooms
By Maritza Guevara |
During his annual State of the State address, Governor Pritzker renewed his call to ban cell phone use during school hours, stating, “It’s time to get cell phones out of the classroom.” The Governor’s office cited research showing that “72% of high school teachers identified cell phone distraction as a ‘major problem’ in their classroom.”
ISSRA, Not FOIA: Clarifying Parents’ Avenue to Access Educational Records
By Maritza Guevara |
Parents have the right to access their student’s educational records. However, there can be confusion as to which avenue under the law they can or should pursue for access to these student records.
Illinois PAC Issues Binding Opinion on Improper Restrictions on Public Comment
By Maritza Guevara |
The Illinois PAC issued binding opinion 26-001, finding that the Village of Sauk Village violated the Open Meetings Act by impermissibly restricting a member of the public from addressing the Village Board during a committee meeting.
Recent Circuit Court Case Demonstrates Risk of Using Transportation Funds for Non-Transportation-Related Expenditures
By Maritza Guevara |
A Cook County Circuit Court ruled that the County violated the 2016 transportation tax “lockbox” amendment by improperly spending over $243 million in transportation tax revenue on non-transportation purposes.
“Moral Conscience” Isn’t Enough for Religious Accommodation
By Maritza Guevara |
The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision clarifying the requirements of school employers related to the vaccinate or test requirements under Governor Pritzker’s executive orders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reminder: Public Bodies May Not Hold a Public Meeting on March 17, 2026
By Maritza Guevara |
March 17, 2026 is the date of the general primary election. If your regular Board meeting is scheduled for March 17, it will need to be rescheduled.
Illinois Appellate Court Upholds TIF Despite Preexisting Development
By Maritza Guevara |
In a significant decision for local governments and taxing bodies, the Illinois Appellate Court affirmed the Village of Winfield’s creation of a new TIF, even though substantial redevelopment by Central DuPage Hospital had already begun prior to its formal enactment.
New Proposed FOIA Legislation Seeks Practical Relief for Public Bodies
By Maritza Guevara |
The Illinois General Assembly is back in session. We worked with partner firms to introduce FOIA legislation sponsored by Representative Daniel Didech to address public sector client concerns while preserving FOIA’s purpose. The bills have not yet been voted on and may be amended. A summary follows.
2026 Refresher on Educational Support Personnel RIF Procedures and Teacher Non-Renewal/RIF Deadlines
By Maritza Guevara |
As we head into the second half of the 2025-26 school year, school districts must begin to make important decisions about their staffing needs for the 2026-2027 school year.
Regulating Intelligence: New A.I. Laws and their Impact on Higher Education
By Maritza Guevara |
The new year brings new compliance obligations for Illinois community colleges concerning the use of artificial intelligence (A.I.). Two new laws, both effective on January 1, 2026, place parameters on the evolving world of A.I.