AmeriCorps JusticeCorps
The Winnebago County Courthouse in Rockford is an Illinois JusticeCorps site. The AmeriCorps JusticeCorps places volunteers in courthouses to help people without lawyers navigate the judicial system.
Time commitments for volunteers range from 300 hours up to 1,700 hours; summer, semester, or full year opportunities are available. Volunteers may qualify for an Education Award for education expenses or for federal loan repayment. If you are 55 or older, the Education Award may also be transferable to your child, stepchild, foster child, grandchild or step-grandchild.
For more details, please visit http://www.illinoisbarfoundation.org/illinois-justicecorps or contact Jenna Kearns of JusticeCorps at 872-444-6620 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Voluntary Externships
The Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court accepts applications from law students seeking to learn about the role and function of the judiciary. Students will learn how courts operate and will gain practical legal experience.
Positions are available during the Fall and Spring semesters, as well as over the Summer. Opportunities are available at our courthouse facilities located in Winnebago County and Boone County. Exact duration and hours per week are based on an applicant’s availability. The experience can be structured to focus on Criminal, Civil, Family, and/or Juvenile court matters. These are unpaid, voluntary positions.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but priority is given to those that apply prior to August 15 for the Fall semester, December 15 for the Spring semester, and April 15 for the summer term. Strong writing and analytical skills are essential.
Applicants should send a cover letter stating their availability, preferred assignment (Criminal, Civil, Family or Juvenile), and whether the externship will be completed for course credit. Applicants should also forward their resume, writing sample, and transcripts by email or regular mail to:
Kimberly Ackmann, Deputy Trial Court Administrator
17th Judicial Circuit Court
Winnebago County Courthouse
400 West State Street, Suite 215
Rockford, Illinois 61101
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
